TDS Desk:

Lamenting the lack of democratic practice in the country’s political history, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Tuesday (July 8) said Bangladesh has strayed far from the path of democracy.

“Unfortunately, democracy has never truly been practiced in Bangladesh. Democratic culture never took root here. There was a brief period of practice, but we have since strayed far from it,” he said at the closing ceremony of ‘Civil Discourse Nationals 2025’ held at the Bangla Academy in Dhaka.

Fakhrul expressed concern over a recent survey indicating that only 1.87% of young people in Bangladesh are interested in politics.

“That statistic saddened me this morning. But being here today has reignited my hope. Our youth are highly capable and can play a significant role in building the country,” he said.

“Some say nothing will change in the country. I don’t agree. I am very hopeful that much can and will happen. One day, Bangladesh will stand tall with pride.”

The BNP leader emphasised the importance of freedom of expression in a true democracy.

“There will be arguments and disagreements. But we believe that I must have the freedom to speak — and so must you. That is the essence of real democracy.”