Dhaka, Jan 20 (V7N) — BNP Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has emphasised the need for a democratic environment to foster the development of art and literature. He made these remarks during a painting exhibition commemorating the birth anniversary of late President Ziaur Rahman at Rabindra Sarobar in Dhanmondi on Monday afternoon.

"Political struggle cannot flourish without culture. In the absence of democratic progress, fascism emerges in society," Rizvi stated.

Criticising the Awami League government, Rizvi alleged that during its tenure, an infrastructure of corruption, theft, and money laundering was established. He claimed that 28 lakh crore taka was laundered under their governance.

He further commented, "If a democratic environment had existed, such acts would have faced public protest and accountability."

The exhibition aimed to celebrate the contributions of Ziaur Rahman while highlighting the role of cultural and democratic practices in societal progress.

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