Dhaka, Sep 29 (V7N): BNP Standing Committee member and former minister Major (retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed has stated that the revolution was not solely the result of the student movement. He made this assertion during a discussion titled "What Freedom Fighters Should Do in the Current Political Context," organized by the Jatiotabadi Muktijoddha Dal at the Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) on Sunday.

Speaking as the chief guest, Major Hafiz emphasized that the BNP has been protesting for the past 17 years, contributing significantly to what he described as the weakening of Sheikh Hasina’s dictatorship. “We must remember this,” he remarked.

He further criticized the interim government for failing to form a proper election commission and for not providing a roadmap. "They only formed six reform commissions," he noted, adding that corrupt officials and police officers in the Awami League should not have been given refuge in the cantonment.

Major Hafiz asserted that only a government truly representing the people can uphold the spirit of 1971, suggesting that elected representatives are capable of implementing necessary reforms. "The interim government can only propose reforms. We will be monitoring how those proposals are implemented," he said, stressing that the government belongs to everyone, not just students.

Reflecting on the August Revolution, he expressed hope that its ideals would be upheld in governance and warned against attempts to distort its history.

Addressing the interim government, Hafiz stated that some perceive them as weak, citing alleged collusion between Ansar and the army for a counter-revolution. He encouraged the government to engage with all sectors and seek the support of freedom fighters to dispel this notion of weakness.

Highlighting the pervasive issue of corruption, Major Hafiz called for decisive action. He referenced India's approach, where even high-ranking officials like the prime minister or president can be removed from power and jailed if found guilty of corruption. He advocated for similar institutional reforms in Bangladesh and called for a stronger Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), suggesting that the ACC chairman should be appointed by the leader of the parliament, the leader of the opposition, and the chief justice, as is done in India.

Addressing the chief advisor, Hafiz Uddin praised Dr. Yunus as a freedom fighter and urged students to consult with all parties before making any significant decisions.

Touching on unrest in the hill tracts, he noted that the local population is being misled, asserting that peace was achieved there due to the strong actions of the late President Ziaur Rahman. He cautioned India against provoking the situation by supplying weapons and training.

Major Hafiz concluded with a strong message, stating that the people of Bangladesh are prepared for war if necessary. He also mentioned that if the BNP returns to power, military training will be mandatory for all 18-year-olds, with special training for students. "In many countries, citizens undergo one to two years of military training," he added.

END/MSS/