Secretary General of ruling BNP Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Thursday said any attempt to undermine the spirit of 1971 is unacceptable, describing it as the fundamental identity of Bangladesh.

Speaking in Parliament during the discussion on the President’s speech, Fakhrul—who also serves as Local Government Minister—indirectly criticised opposition voices, stressing that the legacy of the Liberation War must be upheld at all times.

“If anyone ridicules 1971 or tries to belittle it, we cannot accept that. 1971 is our identity, and that is why we must continue to speak about it,” he said.

He reiterated that the Liberation War remains central to the nation’s character and consciousness.

“This is our identification, our identity—1971 defines who we are. That is why we must repeatedly speak about it,” he added.

Fakhrul also praised BNP Chairman and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, saying the country’s people are looking towards his leadership with high expectations.

“People across the country are looking at our leader, who upon returning to Bangladesh told the nation, ‘I have a plan’. That plan is about building the country, eradicating poverty, improving education, and ensuring healthcare for all,” he said.

He noted that the government has already begun implementing these initiatives and addressed concerns over funding.

“Many have questioned where the money will come from. You can already see that work has begun, and he has explained how funds will be mobilised,” Fakhrul said.

Highlighting the party’s electoral commitments, he referred to initiatives such as family cards and farmer cards, aimed at strengthening social protection and supporting rural communities.

He further said that the party is moving forward under the leadership of a “symbol of potential”, expressing confidence that Tarique Rahman can bring meaningful change to Bangladesh.

“We are advancing with our youth, with our leader at the forefront—someone we believe can transform Bangladesh,” he added.