Fakhrul alarmed as he dives deeper into government

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Secretary General and Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has expressed concern over the state of governance, saying he feels increasingly alarmed as he gains deeper insight into the government’s internal structure.

Speaking as the chief guest at a memorial meeting and prayer session on Saturday at the auditorium of Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, he said, “The more we go inside the government, the more we become worried about how this structure can be fixed.”

The event was held in remembrance of late Prof Dr Abdul Quddus, a freedom fighter, former adviser to the BNP chairperson, and a Zila Parishad chairman. Prayers were offered for the salvation of his soul.

Fakhrul said the death of Dr Quddus was not merely natural, claiming that years of hardship, humiliation, and suffering had taken a toll on him. “Honest, courageous, and ethical individuals like him are becoming increasingly rare in today’s society,” he added.

He emphasised that following the ideals and moral values of Dr Quddus could help bring positive change to society and the country.

Expressing concern over the current national situation, Fakhrul alleged that over the past 15 to 16 years, irregularities, corruption, and nepotism have become institutionalised. “A culture has developed where nothing gets done without lobbying, which was not the case before,” he said.

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Referring to the activities of Zia Parishad, he warned that the organisation should not be turned into a “business outlet,” but instead focus on research-based and intellectual work to promote the life and ideals of Ziaur Rahman globally.

Highlighting Ziaur Rahman’s leadership, Fakhrul said he demonstrated remarkable ability to advance the country in a short period and proved that development is impossible without honesty and hard work.

He also reiterated that the BNP supports reforms but has differences with certain proposals, which have already been formally communicated. Referring to the current economic situation, he said the country is burdened with massive debt and stressed the need for national unity to overcome the crisis.

Praising BNP Chairman and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, he said Tarique believes in inclusive politics and continues to work tirelessly.

On education and politics, Fakhrul called for ensuring merit-based practices in universities and ending politicisation. He warned that the absence of healthy student politics could be detrimental to the country.