People seek real democracy to solve nation's crises: Fakhrul

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Saturday said the people of Bangladesh want a genuine democratic system to overcome the country's ongoing crises.

Speaking at a seminar in Dhaka, Fakhrul said, “I understand the pulse of our people — they want better lives, progress, and a real democracy. That’s the only path to resolving our national challenges.”

He described the current political landscape as a "transitional phase" and urged unity to harness the momentum created by recent mass movements.

“An unprecedented mass uprising by students and the public has built a foundation for national unity,” he said. “If we move forward with shared purpose and focus on our core issues, success is within reach.”

Fakhrul pointed out that Bangladesh has a long history of democratic struggles, culminating in independence. He claimed that after 15 years of what he called “fighting fascist forces,” the country is now at a turning point.

“In July and August, we’ve seen the fall of a monstrous regime. We must stay united to take this opportunity forward,” he added.
Reform and Vision

Responding to growing discussions around reform, Fakhrul noted that BNP has long recognized the need for change. He highlighted the party’s ‘Vision 2030’ policy, introduced in 2016 by Chairperson Khaleda Zia, and the 31-point reform agenda presented by Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman in 2022.

“As a political party, we understand the people’s needs and the structural changes required. Reform is not optional — it’s essential,” he said.
On Padma Barrage and Second Padma Bridge

Fakhrul was addressing a seminar titled “The Necessity of Implementing Padma Barrage and Second Padma Bridge,” organized by the National Committee on the Implementation of the projects at BRAC Centre Inn in Mohakhali.

He said both infrastructure projects are vital, particularly given the impact of climate change on millions of people in southern Bangladesh.

“Though seven feasibility studies have been done, no clear decision has emerged. What’s missing is political commitment — and that only comes when people demand it,” Fakhrul stressed.

He recalled that Khaleda Zia had earlier committed to building a second Padma Bridge.
Experts Call for Political Will and Technical Clarity

Economist Dr Debapriya Bhattacharya emphasized the need for updated technical reports and transparency. He urged political parties to include river protection and large infrastructure plans in their election manifestos.

He also said Bangladesh must prepare to renegotiate the Ganges Water Sharing Treaty with India before its 2026 expiration.

Former caretaker adviser Dr Hossain Zillur Rahman called for courageous leadership, technical expertise, and transparency to execute such large-scale projects. He suggested forming a working group to build public pressure on the government.

Climate expert Dr Ainun Nishat warned of the risks involved in building the second bridge and stressed the importance of understanding river dynamics and environmental consequences.

“Communities in the south are already bearing the brunt of climate change,” he said. “The government must treat this with urgency.”