(BSS) - The Khulna city and district units of BNP on Friday afternoon observed the historic Revolution and Solidarity Day through a discussion meeting and colourful rally held at Shibbari intersection in the city.

BNP City President Advocate Shafiqul Alam Mona presided over the event. Former lawmaker and BNP candidate for Khulna-5 constituency Ali Asgar Lobi addressed the event as the chief guest.

Among others, district BNP convener Moniruzzaman Montu, city BNP general secretary Shafiqul Alam Tuhin, district BNP joint convener Advocate Momrezul Islam, former student leader Ziaur Rahman Papul, city BNP organizing secretary Sheikh Sadi, Masud Parvez Babu and Chowdhury Hasanur Rashid Miraj spoke on the occasion.

Leaders of city, thana, upazila and ward units of BNP and its front organizations were also present.

Speakers said November 7 remains an unforgettable day in the nation`s history as the combined uprising of soldiers and people on that day in 1975 ended political instability and paved the way for the restoration of multi-party democracy, freedom of speech and press, and the rule of law.

They said Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman was a patriotic and courageous soldier who sowed the seeds of nationalist ideology and led the nation toward progress, development and prosperity.

The speakers further observed that a truly democratic government has yet to be established in the country and there is no alternative to a free, fair and inclusive election.

Although people breathed a sigh of relief after the political change on August 5, 2024, they said, the pledges of justice, accountability and good
governance remain largely unfulfilled.

They also alleged that extrajudicial killings and deprivation of legal rights continue in various parts of the country, while conspiracies are still being hatched to subjugate the nation.

The spirit that united the soldiers and people on November 7, 1975, to safeguard national independence and sovereignty, they said, is still relevant today.

The speakers called upon all to uphold that spirit, institutionalize multi-party democracy, eradicate corruption and misrule, and work collectively to build a just, equitable and humane society.

Later, a colourful rally was brought out from Zia hall square and ended at Royal Chattar after parading the KDA Avenue.

Meanwhile, a separate programme was organized at Tetultala intersection by Khulna-2 BNP nominee Nazrul Islam Manju and his followers, participated by leaders and activists of the party`s front and associate bodies.