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Local Government, Rural Development, and Co-operatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Wednesday said the people of Bangladesh do not want to see Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami in power, claiming that public sentiment remains firmly against the party.
“Jamaat-e-Islami opposed the independence, killed freedom fighters, and dishonoured mothers and sisters. That is why people of this country do not want them in power and will never bring them to power,” he said, UNB reports.
Fakhrul, also BNP Secretary General, made the remarks while addressing a reception after inspecting the progress of work to reopen the abandoned Thakurgaon Airport.
He said the BNP is not against reforms and has played an important role in the implementation of the “July Charter.”
The BNP leader also alleged that some political groups are spreading lies and confusion in the name of religion for political gain, adding that politics should be based on truth and honesty.
He further said under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the country is moving towards a new political direction, and the government is working to fulfil its pre-election commitments.
Referring to the Thakurgaon Airport project, Fakhrul said preparations are underway to make it operational within the next two years, adding that it will be a matter of pride for the region.
He also said approval for Thakurgaon University has already been granted and a vice-chancellor appointed. “The medical college has also received approval and student admission will begin from next year,” he added.
Urging local investors to expand investments, the minister said employment opportunities must be created as academic degrees alone are no longer enough to secure jobs. “Become entrepreneurs and create employment,” he said.
Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam and State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat also spoke at the programme, saying all necessary measures will be taken to reopen the Thakurgaon Airport within two years.
Among others, Thakurgaon-2 MP Abdus Salam, Thakurgaon-3 MP Zahidul Islam, district BNP President Mirza Faisal Amin, General Secretary Paigam Ali and Thakurgaon University Vice Chancellor Dr Md Israfil were present.