BNP Standing Committee member Mirza Abbas has dismissed the notion of a "second independence" in Bangladesh, describing it as an attempt to undermine the significance of the country`s original independence gained in 1971.
His comments were made on Wednesday, March 26, after paying tribute to the martyrs at the National Memorial in Savar on the occasion of Independence Day and National Day.
At around 8:15 AM, in response to questions from journalists, Abbas stated that while many refer to the removal of the autocratic regime in July and August, 2024, as a "second independence," he disagrees with that perspective.
“Through the student and public movement in July–August, we drove away the autocrat and tasted freedom once again. Many call this the second independence. However, today’s Independence Day proves there is no such thing as a second independence in Bangladesh,” Abbas said.
He stressed that those who use this term seek to downplay the value of Independence Day and 1971’s liberation movement.
“Those who say such things want to belittle today’s Independence Day. They had no role in the independence of 1971, so they want to diminish this day. I would say they should stop here. They should show respect and honor to this Independence Day,” Abbas added.
Political Disunity and Unity
When asked about the internal differences in Bangladesh’s political scene, Abbas addressed concerns about disunity. He argued that it was not disunity but a natural conflict of interests and ideologies that exist among political parties.
“There is no disunity. There is a conflict of interests, as each party has its own ideological stance, and everyone speaks from that position. I wouldn’t call this disunity,” he clarified.
Abbas further noted that if the need arises to protect the country’s sovereignty and independence, all political factions would unite.
“If a situation ever comes where greater national unity is required to defend the country’s independence and sovereignty, we will all come together. There is no mistake in that,” he said.
Election Trust and Challenges
Responding to a question about potential doubts surrounding the upcoming national elections, Abbas emphasized that the BNP remains confident in the election process.
“The Chief Adviser has said that the election will be held in December. We want to maintain our trust in that. We don’t want to change our belief on this matter,” Abbas remarked.
However, he acknowledged that challenges in the political landscape exist.
When asked if there were any difficulties expected with the election, Abbas said,
“Every political party in Bangladesh is a rival. We do not want to believe that the election won’t happen.”
When further pressed on what the BNP’s stance would be if the election did not take place as scheduled, Abbas maintained a firm belief that the election would occur.
“We don’t believe the election won’t happen. If such a situation arises, we will deal with it when the time comes,” he asserted.
Reflecting on Independence
Mirza Abbas also took the opportunity to reflect on the nature of Bangladesh’s independence.
He mentioned that even 54 years after gaining independence, the nation had at times lost its sense of true freedom but regained it following the political changes of August 5, 2024.
“Even after 54 years of independence, we had somewhat lost the real taste of freedom. But after August 5, we gained it again,” Abbas said.
His remarks underscored the ongoing relevance of the struggle for independence in Bangladesh’s political discourse, as well as the need for national unity to protect the country’s sovereignty.
