News Desk: President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has remarked that communal harmony is one of Bangladesh’s greatest attributes.
Praising this harmony, the President said, “People of various religions and communities—including Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, and Christians—have lived side by side in the country for a long time. This harmony is one of Bangladesh’s greatest beauties. We must uphold this harmony and unity as the country moves forward.”
He made these remarks on Tuesday afternoon (September 15) while addressing a civic reception organized by the Sylhet City Corporation (SCC) at the City Bhaban premises.
The President stated, “The country’s greatest responsibility now is to institutionalize and protect the democratic environment achieved through long struggles and sacrifices. The people of this country have repeatedly fought for democracy, though obstacles have arisen at various times. We must not, through negligence, lose the democracy we now have the opportunity to secure.”
Noting that the country has endured a complex period over the last 15–16 years, he added, “During that time, political leaders and activists had to wage long struggles for democracy. Many lost their lives, and many were injured. It is through those sacrifices that the opportunity to create a democratic environment has arisen. After a long fight—involving immense sacrifice, bloodshed, and the loss of our children’s lives—we have managed to oust a fascist government and establish a democratic environment. We now have the opportunity to institutionalize democracy.”
The President noted that a government has been formed through elections. Now, the government’s major responsibility is to revive the country from the ruins and fulfill the people’s expectations. Observing that democracy is not established merely by holding elections, the President added that democratic institutions must be made effective.
The President said, “Parliament must play an effective role. Differences of opinion between the government and the opposition are natural; however, such differences must be resolved through dialogue. The primary responsibility of both the ruling party and the opposition is to sustain the democratic system.” …making the Parliament effective, ensuring it functions properly, and resolving various disagreements through dialogue.
Highlighting future political responsibilities, the President said, “In the past, they fought to establish democracy. Now, a new struggle has begun to rebuild the country and strengthen democracy. At the same time, we must build a livable country for future generations.” He added, “The battle ahead of us is to rebuild the nation, strengthen democracy, and create a truly livable home for future generations.”
Emphasizing the need for consensus among political parties on matters of national interest, the President stated, “There will always be a government and an opposition in the country, and differences of opinion on various issues are inevitable. However, everyone must move forward unitedly on issues of national interest. Let us agree on our common goals and move forward together.”
Recalling his long-standing political ties with Sylhet, the President said, “I have visited Sylhet many times. In the past, I participated in various programs there alongside BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia. The people of Sylhet have also played a significant role in the movement for democracy.”
Praising the people of Sylhet, he remarked, “The people of this region are known for their hospitality and peace-loving nature, yet they also possess a tradition of protesting against injustice. They have made great sacrifices for democracy in the past.”
Paying tribute to the distinguished figures of Sylhet, the President said, “Sylhet is linked to the lives and works of many eminent personalities, such as Hason Raja, Radharaman Dutta, Sufi mystic Shah Abdul Karim, Hemanga Biswas, and Syed Mujtaba Ali. Sylhet also played a vital role in the Liberation War.”
Regarding the development of Sylhet, the President noted, “Local ministers and Members of Parliament are working on the various challenges and prospects of this region. Several major projects have already been initiated. I hope that the implementation of these projects will fulfill the long-standing aspirations of the people of Sylhet. People must also take the initiative for their own rights and development; instead of expecting others to come and do everything, they should harness their own capabilities and unity.” “If we cannot stand on our own two feet, if we cannot secure our own demands ourselves, no one else will come and do it for us.”
Local Member of Parliament and Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muqtadir, Minister for Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Ariful Haque Chowdhury, and National Parliament Whip GK Gaus delivered welcome addresses at the reception ceremony. The event was attended by the local MP, high-ranking government officials, political leaders, professionals, and prominent figures from various walks of life. Abdul Kaiyum Chowdhury, Administrator of the Sylhet City Corporation (SCC), presided over the ceremony. During the reception, SCC Chief Executive Officer Mohammad Rezai Rafin Sarkar presented a reception crest and gifts to the President.
