Abu Hanif, a senior member of the High Council of Gono Odhikar Parishad and its Media Coordinator, has stated that reforming the state and ensuring justice for genocide are more important than holding elections.
“We want to see meaningful reforms completed without delay and significant progress made in the prosecution of genocide. For the past 15 years, the people of this country haven’t had the chance to vote. Democracy-loving citizens want to cast their votes, and that opportunity must be guaranteed,” he said.
Hanif made these remarks on Thursday (June 12) during a brief speech following a leaflet distribution and public outreach program organized by Gono Odhikar Parishad at Poolerghat Bazaar in Kishoreganj.
Criticizing the local leadership of the ruling party, Hanif said, “Over the years, many Awami League leaders have represented Kishoreganj, but none brought any real development to this area. Traffic congestion is a daily problem at Poolerghat Bazaar, yet the authorities have taken no steps to solve it. We demand immediate action.”
He continued, “In the 53 years since independence, governments and leaders have changed, but the system of governance has not. Those in power have ruled and exploited the people. The upcoming mass uprising in July is a chance to change that system. What we need is true reform of the state.”
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Highlighting the ongoing struggle for democracy, Hanif added, “Since 2018, we have been fighting against authoritarianism, and Nurul Haque Nur has led that fight. He has endured countless attacks, faced numerous lawsuits, been imprisoned but never compromised with the Awami League. Even when he was taken into remand during the July uprising, he declared that 90% of the Awami League had already collapsed and called on the people to push the remaining 10% out. Nurul Haque has always been a symbol of unyielding resistance against fascism, and he will continue to be.”
Hanif also warned against those trying to fill the power vacuum left by the Awami League. “Before the fall of the Awami League, they were notorious for extortion and land-grabbing. Now, others are starting to do the same.”
“But let this be clear that the oppressive 15-year rule of the Awami League couldn’t last, and if anyone else tries to follow in their footsteps, they will meet the same fate. Those engaging in extortion and illegal occupation should take a lesson from the downfall of the Awami League.”
Others who spoke at the event included Shafiqul Islam Shafik, Vice-President of Gono Odhikar Parishad; Advocate Mominul Islam, Central Committee Member and Abhi Chowdhury,former Joint Convener of the Kishoreganj District Unit.
