BNP Accused of Backtracking on 31-Point Reform Pledges: Dr. Shafiqur Rahman

Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, the Amir of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and Leader of the Opposition, has accused the BNP of betraying its commitment to the 31-point reform agenda. He made these remarks on Sunday during an exchange meeting titled "July Martyrs' Families and July Warriors," organized by the 11-party alliance at the Institution of Diploma Engineers in the capital.

The Jamaat Amir stated that while both parties had previously pledged reforms if elected, the BNP is now retreating from its initial stance, particularly regarding constitutional amendments. "Their first point was constitutional reform, but they have now positioned themselves against it. This is not just a betrayal of the nation, but a betrayal of their own documented promises," Dr. Rahman asserted.

Reflecting on the struggles against fascism, Dr. Rahman noted that most current parliamentarians have been victims of past oppression. However, he lamented that the lure of power often makes leaders forget their history of struggle. He cautioned that any attempts to establish a new fascist regime would be met with strong resistance.

Furthermore, he criticized the BNP's claim of singular credit for the historical milestones of 1971, 1990, and 2024. While acknowledging the late President Ziaur Rahman's role in the Liberation War, Dr. Rahman emphasized that credit must be shared with all freedom fighters. "To attribute everything to one individual or party is to monopolize history, a tactic used by the previous fascist regime," he added.