Truthful Journalists Helped Topple Dictatorship: Rizvi
BNP Acting Secretary General Mr. Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said journalists like Mr. Giasuddin Kamal Chowdhury, Mr. Ataus Samad and Mr. Fayez Ahmed held truth, ethics and ideals. He said their firm stand and courage played an important role in the movement against autocracy. He spoke as chief guest at a discussion yesterday morning.
The Bangladesh Jatiya Sangbadik Samity organised the discussion in memory of the noted journalist Mr. Gias Kamal Chowdhury. It took place at the Zahur Hossain Chowdhury Auditorium of the National Press Club. Mr. Rizvi said people depended on the BBC and Voice of America for news during the rule of the autocrat Ershad. The news reports of Voice of America journalist Mr. Gias Kamal Chowdhury and BBC journalist Mr. Ataus Samad were very important to people.
People listened to the country’s situation and political programmes in their voices. Mr. Rizvi said the journalists of that time were honest, firm and never gave in. Many tried to influence them in different ways, but most did not leave their ideals. He said this example of truthful journalism matters even today. He also shared memories of his personal bond with Mr. Gias Kamal Chowdhury.
He said their relationship began after he joined student politics. He was impressed by Mr. Gias Kamal Chowdhury’s skill in speaking at events and his kind behaviour toward young people. He said Mr. Chowdhury was like a guardian. On the occasion, Mr. Rizvi prayed for the forgiveness of the departed soul of Mr. Gias Kamal Chowdhury.
Dr. Anwar Ullah Chowdhury, former Vice Chancellor of Dhaka University, was also present. BASS Chairman and poet Mr. Abdul Hai Sikdar and others also attended. The same day, the BNP Acting Secretary General joined a joint preparatory meeting at the party’s central office in Naya Paltan. The meeting was for National Revolution and Solidarity Day.
He said the spirit of the historic 7 November will unite people against any undemocratic force in future. He said it will also strengthen the pledge to protect independence and sovereignty. He said the spirit of 7 November was the spirit of restoring independence, sovereignty and democracy by clearing away uncertainty. He said people wanted change because of the political situation of that time, the creation of BAKSAL and a series of bloody events.
At the joint meeting, the Secretary General announced the BNP’s programmes for the day. On 7 November at 6 am, party flags will rise at all party offices across the country. Colourful rallies will take place at all district and upazila levels, including Dhaka. At 11 am, leaders will place wreaths and offer Fateha at the graves of Martyr President Ziaur Rahman and the late national leader Begum Khaleda Zia.
Other wings and affiliated bodies of the BNP will also publish posters and hold discussions for the day. Chhatra Dal will hold a drawing contest and a photo exhibition. The BNP’s discussion meeting is likely set for 6 November. The final decision will follow the consent of the party chairman. The dates of programmes of other wings and affiliated bodies will also be finalised and sent in writing.
