The July Declaration has sparked two very different responses from top BNP leaders. While Mirza Abbas expressed deep pain over the absence of Ziaur Rahman’s name, Mirza Fakhrul dismissed criticism of the declaration, saying those who are disappointed will remain so forever.
Mirza Abbas: “Zia’s Name Is Missing – It Hurts Me”
At a BNP rally in Nayapaltan on August 6, BNP Standing Committee Member Mirza Abbas criticized the July Declaration for not mentioning Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, the party’s founder.
He said:
“জুলাই ঘোষণাপত্রে শহীদ প্রেসিডেন্ট জিয়াউর রহমানের নাম না থাকা পীড়াদায়ক।”
Translation: “It is painful that Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman’s name was not included in the July Declaration.”
He added that Ziaur Rahman played a key role in the country’s independence and later brought back democracy after Baksal rule. Abbas said the omission of his name was disrespectful and personally upsetting.
Mirza Fakhrul: “Those Who Are Disappointed Will Always Be Disappointed”
On the same day, at a press conference in BNP Chairperson’s Gulshan office, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir gave a completely different response to the criticism surrounding the July Declaration.
He said:
“জুলাই ঘোষণাপত্রে যারা হতাশ হয়েছেন, তারা সারাজীবন হতাশ থাকেন।”
Translation: “Those who are disappointed by the July Declaration will remain disappointed for life.”
Fakhrul addressed concerns raised by Jamaat-e-Islami, who said the declaration did not reflect the hopes of the nation. He hoped they would take a positive view and help build a democratic future.
A Divided Voice Within BNP?
The two strong but contradictory reactions from senior BNP leaders have raised eyebrows in political circles. While Abbas focused on historical recognition and emotional legacy, Fakhrul appeared more focused on future strategy and unity.
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