Opposition Leader of the House Dr Md Shafiqur Rahman on Thursday congratulated the newly elected Speaker of Parliament and urged him to ensure fairness, justice and a dynamic parliamentary environment for the benefit of the nation.

After the election of the Speaker, Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman thanked the citizens of the country for electing representatives through their valuable votes and enabling them to speak in the House.

He paid tribute to the martyrs of the movements of 1947, 1952 and 1971 as well as those who sacrificed their lives or endured persecution during what he described as years of fascist rule.

He also remembered the victims of the Shapla Chattar incident and others who had suffered oppression, imprisonment or injury during various struggles.

The opposition leader particularly recalled those who fought during July movement , saying their sacrifices made it possible to form the current Parliament.

“This Parliament is not an ordinary one; it stands upon the blood of July,” he said, praying for eternal peace for those who had died and wishing speedy recovery for those injured.

Congratulating the Speaker and Deputy Speaker Kamal, Shafiqur Rahman said Bangladesh had completed 55 years since independence but said parliamentary democracy had functioned effectively only for limited periods during that time.

“Most of the time Parliament became ineffective under the grip of fascism,” he said, adding that many previous office-holders had failed to deliver justice to Parliament, the country and its people.

 “We believe there will be no distinction between the treasury and opposition benches in your eyes. We hope we will receive justice and the opportunity to speak for the welfare of the nation,” he said.

Shafiqur Rahman also urged the Speaker to ensure that Parliament does not become a platform for character assassination, but rather focuses on meaningful debates centred on public welfare.

He expressed hope that the House, which now includes many young members, would become more vibrant and productive, learning from experienced lawmakers who had previously served in Parliament.