CPB warns of rise of ‘ultra-reactionary communal’ forces in Bangladesh

The Communist Party of Bangladesh (CPB) has warned of the rise of “ultra-reactionary communal forces” in Bangladesh.

General Secretary Ruhin Hossain Prince raised the concern on Friday afternoon at the opening session of the party’s 13th national congress in Dhaka, reports bdnews24.com.

“At this moment, we are witnessing the emergence of far-right, ultra-reactionary communal forces. Imperialist and hegemonic powers are playing an aggressive role in establishing dominance over our country,” he told the gathering.

He added: “While urgent, free, fair, and acceptable elections are essential to restore democracy, some quarters are trying to obstruct this process. The role of certain government advisors and political parties known as government supporters is putting the prospect of timely elections into question.”

The CPB said the congress has been convened to outline immediate and long-term tasks for building a society free from discrimination and oppression.

The event began at the premises of the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB), with the national anthem, followed by the hoisting of the national and party flags.

Leaders and activists placed flowers at a temporary memorial to honour the martyrs with tributes and the “red salute”, before the inaugural session started inside the IEB auditorium.

Outlining the purpose of the congress and the current political context, Prince, who is also the coordinator of the Left Democratic Alliance, said: “The July Uprising has once again brought forward the aspirations for democracy and an equal society. Communists across the world, and in our country, have been advancing this struggle with ideological commitment for generations. The fight continues through the sacrifices of hundreds of martyrs.”

He added, “In our country, communists are moving forward with integrity and have become an example as a party that speaks for the people’s interests. At the congress, we will take an oath to define clear urgent and long-term steps to strengthen this struggle.”

According to him, building democracy and an equal society requires ending the “criminalised” economy and politics, and establishing an alternative through principled left democratic politics.

He said forming a left democratic progressive government is now “an urgent duty”.

On reforms, Prince said: “Despite much discussion, there has been no debate on fundamental changes needed to solve people’s crises and restructure the system. This congress will set out clear duties on these issues.”

According to the CPB, over 600 members, including 550 delegates and observers from across the country, are attending the congress. The council session will be held from Sept 20–22 at the Bangladesh Medical Association (BMA) auditorium on Topkhana Road.