Shaikh Faridul Islam

I am pleased to see that Bangladesh is observing World Environment Day 2025 through a range of meaningful programs and activities. At a time when reckless industrialisation and unplanned development practices continue to threaten ecosystems across the globe, this day serves as a crucial platform to raise awareness about the urgent need for environmental conservation and sustainable living. Bangladesh, by virtue of its geography, is blessed with extraordinary natural beauty and ecological diversity. It is therefore our solemn duty to preserve this rich environment for future generations. From its very inception, the BNP has been recognised as an environmentally conscious party. Over the years, we have championed initiatives including widespread tree plantation drives, canal excavation and maintenance projects, and active campaigns to restrict the use of harmful plastics. Our founder, President Ziaur Rahman, launched the Environment Pollution Control Project in 1977, an initiative that later evolved into what is now the Department of Environment. Continuing this legacy, BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia introduced the Bangladesh Environment Conservation Act in 1995 and established the country’s first Environmental Courts, pioneering legal mechanisms for ecological protection. Our goal has always been to build a greener, cleaner Bangladesh. In light of today’s escalating climate crisis and worsening industrial pollution, a pragmatic and forward looking national strategy is more needed than ever. Should the BNP be entrusted once again with the responsibility of governing, we pledge to undertake the following actions to safeguard Bangladesh’s environment: 1. Develop a National Green Recovery Plan with a strong focus on reforestation (planting 250 to 300 million trees within the next five years), renewable green energy, and sustainable agriculture 2. Ban harmful plastics and toxic chemicals, while promoting biodegradable alternatives across industries and households 3. Launch a comprehensive dredging and restoration program for rivers and canals to combat waterlogging and protect aquatic ecosystems 4. Support climate resilient agriculture and infrastructure in the country’s vulnerable southern regions, helping communities adapt to the effects of climate change 5. Integrate environmental education into school curricula to build a generation of environmentally conscious citizens Environmental conservation is not a luxury; it is a necessity. Let us come together, across political and social boundaries, to build a sustainable Bangladesh, one where future generations inherit a land that is green, livable, and resilient. This World Environment Day, let us plant the seeds of hope, protect our air, water, and soil, and safeguard the future for all.

The interim government stepped in during a turbulent, transition point in time, when Bangladesh emerged from autocratic hands. Our support for this government was resolute back then, just as it is today. However, the challenge of maintaining absolute trust in them now depends on how effectively and efficiently they fulfill the aspirations of the people. Therefore, the interim government must clearly define their responsibilities and outline a roadmap for implementation, within a reasonable timeframe. It’s not possible for them to carry out every reform required for the nation, nor would it be wise if they take on tasks they lack the resources or capacity to achieve, especially without the electoral mandate from the people of Bangladesh.

The interim government, emerging from the sacrifice of thousands and the will of millions, cannot be allowed to fail. Its failure would be a collective failure for the pro-democracy people of Bangladesh. We must remain vigilant against conspiracies from various factions and come together to ensure it succeeds in establishing democratic reform. The political empowerment of the people will be achieved only by establishing an elected parliament and a government with public mandate and accountability. This should be the primary target of all reform initiatives. Through free, fair, and credible elections – safeguarding the right of every voter to cast their vote and choose their desired representative – can this empowerment be achieved. This, in turn, will ensure sustainability in democracy, development, and reform. Towards that goal, priority must be given to reforming the Election Commission, public administration, and law enforcement agencies. These key constitutional institutions must be made neutral, competent, and credible. The interim government should set its agenda based on these priorities, aligning with the aspirations of the pro-democracy people of Bangladesh and upholding the values of the mass uprising.

I am immensely proud of the outstanding achievements of the Bangladeshi cricketers. Their strong morale and exceptional skill have propelled the Bangladesh cricket team to new heights, as demonstrated by their victory over a formidable opponent like Pakistan. I am confident that, in the near future, this team will continue to overcome the world's most dominant sides, further enhancing Bangladesh's reputation. My heartfelt congratulations go out to everyone involved in Bangladesh cricket, from the players to the coaches and officials. I wish the team continued success in their future endeavors.

I am shocked and saddened by the nationwide incidents that killed at least six students and injured thousands by gunfire and sharp weapons wielded by the terrorists of the Awami League and law enforcement agencies. Students from various educational institutions across the country are protesting for the reform of the 56% quota system in Bangladesh's employment sector, demanding fair and equal opportunities based on meritocracy. The barbaric Sheikh Hasina regime, illegally seizing state power through sham elections, has once again proven that there is no space for innocent students to express their legitimate demands, let alone for opposition political opinions. I pray for the peace of the souls of those who were killed, for the quick recovery of the injured, and beg Allah to grant the families of the victims the strength to endure this grief and pain. I call upon everyone, regardless of party affiliation, to unite against the atrocities of this illegal government.

On this World Environment Day, we take pride in the policies implemented by successive governments led by Bangladesh Nationalist Party-BNP, including historic canal-digging programme, initiatives to combat climate change and promote green energy, ambitious tree plantation schemes, introduction of clean vehicles such as CNG, and the ban on polythene bags and CO2-generating three wheelers, among others. However, disregarding our commitment to an eco-friendly world, the illegitimate Awami League government continues to undertake corruption-ridden mega projects, including coal-fired power stations in Rampal, Banshkhali, Payra, Phulbari, Matarbari, and Maheshkhali, as well as the nuclear power plant in Rooppur, Kutubdia LNG terminal, and nationwide highways and bridges — all without proper impact assessments, devastating our natural landscapes. It’s disheartening that Dhaka, the symbol of national development, ranks at the top globally, for worst air quality and as the worst city to live in. While numerous projects of the Sheikh Hasina regime pose significant risks to our ecosystem, I urge all activists, affiliates, and supporters of BNP to demonstrate our environmental commitment through personal, professional, and organisational activities, raising awareness and advocating for sustainable practices. Personally, I’ve a dream that when my party is elected to form the government, we’ll plant 50 million trees across the country, in an effort to achieve our goal to build a green and clean Bangladesh.

On this day in 1971, Major Ziaur Rahman declared the independence of Bangladesh, setting the course for a free and liberated nation. Hence, every 26th March, Bangladeshis across the world celebrate Independence Day, embodying our identity as proud citizens of the sovereign land. My commitment to a democratic Bangladesh is deeply rooted in the sacrifices of my father and other valiant freedom fighters, who shed their blood to secure our nation’s independence. However, after 53 years, the ideals of the Liberation War – equality, human dignity, and social justice – and the overarching goal to uphold voting rights, human rights, freedom of expression, and the rule of law – have been decimated by the fascist Sheikh Hasina regime. At this crossroads, Bangladesh Nationalist Party-BNP, founded by the proclaimer of Bangladesh’s independence, Ziaur Rahman, stands steadfast in preserving the founder’s legacy. Our ongoing struggle is to restore the essence of independence for all Bangladeshis, by reinstating democracy, public rights, and fundamental freedoms. We firmly believe that, just as in 1971, the victory of pro-democracy people is inevitable, even in the face of state-sponsored violence and repression. Together, let’s embark on a collective journey towards a Bangladesh that resonates with the enduring spirit of our heroic sacrifices.

Participating in an election under Hasina, against the aspirations of the Bangladeshi people, would undermine the sacrifices of those who fought, shed blood and gave their lives for democracy. aljazeera.com/amp/news/2024/…

To take the ongoing movement to ultimate success, rising above partisan identity, irrespective of party, view, religion, and caste, I call upon every pro-democracy individual to commence non-cooperation with the present illegal government. By ensuring fascist Sheikh Hasina out of state power, a free, fair, impartial, and participatory election will be held in the country.