Dhaka, Aug 19 (V7N) – Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, who has been nominated by the ruling BNP as its presidential candidate, Tuesday said that even after becoming President, he wishes to remain beside the people and serve them.

"I never thought that I would become the President. It is the infinite grace of the party and Almighty Allah. Even after becoming president, I wish to remain beside the people and serve them," he said while talking to members of the Thakurgaon Journalist Forum, Dhaka, who called on him at his Hare Road official residence.

Mirza Fakhrul, who also served as the Secretary General of BNP, further said that no matter how busy he remains, he will always stand by the people and work for the development of his area.

During the meeting, leaders of the Thakurgaon Journalists Forum, Dhaka, congratulated Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on his nomination as the next President of the country.

Mirza Fakhrul became emotional on the occasion and expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for nominating him as the presidential candidate. He also inquired about the well-being of each of the journalists and offered various suggestions.

Among those present at the meeting were Forum President Manik Muntasir of Bangladesh Pratidin, General Secretary Delwar Hossain of Samakal, Chief News Editor of BSS Md Manikul Azad, Vice-President Mahbub Alam Raj of Star TV, Joint General Secretary Shafiqul Islam of Kalbela, and other executive members and advisers.

The presidential election is scheduled for August 20, with Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Colonel (retd.) Ali Ahmed, Bir Bikram, as the two contesting candidates. With the BNP holding a strong majority in parliament, Mirza Fakhrul is widely expected to win the election.

END/AJ/RH/