People Must Remain Vocal to Prevent Resurgence of Fascism: Yaser Khan Chowdhury

Information and Broadcasting State Minister Yaser Khan Chowdhury has called on people from all walks of life to remain vocal to prevent the resurgence of fascism in Bangladesh. He said the government would take initiatives to present children and teenagers with the accurate history of Bangladesh’s independence and the establishment of democracy.

He made the remarks at a book launching and publication festival at the Abdus Salam Hall of the National Press Club on Sunday. The event, organized by publishing house Dashomik, marked the launch of journalist and writer Sabrina Shubhra’s books Shahid Ziar Golpo Shono and Chhotoder Priyo Khaleda Zia.

Mr. Yaser said it was important to inform the new generation about the contributions and sacrifices of those who helped achieve Bangladesh’s independence and democracy. He said more books, writings and films on the country’s true history were needed and that the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting was working to present accurate history.

He also stressed translating such books into English so that Bangladeshi children and teenagers living abroad could learn about the country’s history and the contributions of its leaders.

Referring to former President Ziaur Rahman, the state minister said Ziaur Rahman had declared Bangladesh’s independence in 1971. He also highlighted BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia’s role in movements to protect and restore democracy, saying their contributions could be forgotten over time if they were not presented to the new generation.

Mr. Yaser said the democracy and voting rights achieved through the student-people’s revolution on August 5, 2024, after 17 years of struggle under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman must be protected. He urged people to remain alert so that fascism could not rise again in the country.

Speakers at the event praised Sabrina Shubhra’s initiative to present the lives and political histories of Ziaur Rahman and Khaleda Zia in a form suitable for children.