Fakhrul Slams Govt Over Rakhine Humanitarian Corridor

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has voiced strong criticism over the government's unilateral decision to permit a humanitarian corridor for displaced Rohingyas from Myanmar’s Rakhine state, without consulting opposition parties or stakeholders.

Speaking at a roadside rally in Khagrabari Sheikh Bazar, Jagannathpur Union of Thakurgaon Sadar upazila on Monday evening, Fakhrul underscored the need for inclusive decision-making on matters with national and humanitarian implications.

“This isn’t a matter for one party alone,” Fakhrul said. “Such important decisions must be made collectively, with input from all political forces.”

Turning to broader political issues, Fakhrul questioned recent discussions about reform. “What is reform? I don’t understand that. I understand democracy and people’s rights,” he said, taking aim at Nobel Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus’s role in organizing elections. “He is wise and respected—but he’s not a politician.”

Fakhrul accused the ruling Awami League of plunging the country into crisis over the last 15 years, citing enforced disappearances, corruption, and political suppression. “People have shed blood to remove Hasina,” he said, referring to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

He also alleged that BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia had suffered mistreatment in custody under politically motivated charges. “She was held in isolation like a rat in a trap,” he claimed.

Echoing Khaleda Zia’s recent message, Fakhrul called for reconciliation and rebuilding. “Let’s abandon vengeance and unite to build a beautiful Bangladesh.”

Addressing communal harmony, he criticized attempts to sow division. “We call our Hindu brothers just that—brothers,” he said. “Former MP Ramesh Chandra Sen tried to create conflict, but we stand for the safety and religious freedom of all citizens.”

Concluding his speech, Fakhrul urged unity and peaceful coexistence. “We fought for democracy, yet our people remain deprived of their rights. The path forward is through free elections and a government truly of the people.”

Several local BNP leaders attended the rally, including district General Secretary Mirza Faisal Amin, Joint Secretary Paigam Ali, Sadar Upazila President Abdul Hamid, General Secretary Mahbub Hossain Tuhin, and Women’s Wing President Foratun Nahar Paris.