Opposition Leader Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has alleged that the BNP is following the same “fascist path” as the Awami League.

“BNP is opposing key issues where the state needs reform. This is a clear betrayal of the nation,” he said.

He made the remarks at a rally held at Suhrawardy Udyan in Dhaka on Saturday afternoon, attended by families of those killed and injured in the July Uprising.

Dr Shafiqur Rahman, also Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, said the ruling party speaks about July and Shaheed Hadi in Parliament, but its actions do not reflect those claims.

NCP's Nahid warns BNP of 'another mass uprising' over intransigence to reforms

“They accept 51 percent of votes when it suits their interests, but reject the 70 percent verdict that could prevent dictatorship, end discrimination, ensure good governance and bring real freedom. This duplicity is shameful,” he said, adding that accepting the 70 percent mandate would free Bangladesh from fascism.

He warned that without the July Uprising, the current political situation would not exist.

“If people had not sacrificed their lives, you could not have come to power. When families of the martyrs were grieving, BNP did not stand by them and instead focused on coming to power through elections,” he said.

He said the student community had played a crucial role, adding that leaders are accountable to every individual and family.

He also alleged that BNP is scrapping laws and ordinances that could lead to state reforms, claiming this reflects a move towards authoritarianism.

Referring to recent incidents, he mentioned that MP Masum Mustafa had been attacked and criticised violence against students near Shahbagh Police Station.

“We do not want such a Bangladesh. We want a country where women can move safely and return home without fear,” he said.

He added that “July will return again” and expressed hope that people would ultimately prevail against fascism through continued struggle both in Parliament and on the streets.

Leaders from several political parties, including AB Party Secretary General Barrister Asaduzzaman Fuad, JAGPA President Barrister Tasmia Pradhan, BDP Chairman Advocate Anwarul Islam Chan, and Bangladesh Nizam-e-Islam Party Senior Nayeb-e-Ameer Mukhlesur Rahman Qasemi, also spoke at the rally.

The event was attended by leaders of the 11-party alliance, Jamaat-e-Islami central and metropolitan leaders, student representatives, and families of those affected by the July Movement, along with thousands of participants, including many injured activists.