Opposition’s Long March Threatens Democracy: Water Resources Minister

Water Resources Minister and BNP Joint Secretary General Mr. Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anne said the opposition’s long march threatens democracy. He called it a threat to democratic values. He made these remarks as chief guest at a special essay competition prize giving ceremony. The event took place at Town Hall Auditorium in Lakshmipur town on Saturday (September 19) afternoon.

Mr. Chowdhury said the opposition raises a catchy slogan during the long march. The slogan demands oil, gas, and electricity, or else the government must step down. He said this slogan suited the fight against Hasina’s government. It also suited the fight against a fascist government.

He added that this slogan does not suit a six month old government. Mr. Chowdhury said the Ameer had already spoken in parliament about the issue. The Ameer explained that problems with oil, gas, and electricity are not new. He said these are long standing problems that everyone must solve together.

Mr. Chowdhury then asked why the opposition still holds a long march outside. He said the opposition claims it will rebuild the country. He argued that the opposition alone cannot do this work. He said both the ruling party and opposition must build the country together.

The minister said the government must get a fair chance. He believes that only then can the country be truly rebuilt. Mr. Chowdhury said his own party fought against fascism before. He said they held processions and meetings during that struggle.

He asked whether they held long marches at the very start of their movement. He said opposition leaders speak well in parliament. Yet they hold long marches outside soon after. He said the current government is not a fascist government.

He also said it is not an opposition tamed by a fascist government. Mr. Chowdhury said all members were elected by the people. He said everyone must remember this fact. He warned the opposition to stay alert.

He said their actions must not allow fascism to return. Special guests at the event included Bangladesh Football Federation Vice President Mr. Wahiduddin Chowdhury Happy. Other guests included Professor Mr. Manjurur Rahman, Mr. Nani Gopal Ghosh, Mr. Yousuf, and Mr. Anwar Hossain. BNP leader Mr. Abul Hasem and Jamaat leader Mr. Faruk Hossain Nurnabi also attended.