Leaders of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and the National Citizen Party on Monday pledged to uphold democratic culture and revive the spirit of cordial relations among political parties that once defined Bangladesh鈥檚 politics.
They emphasised that sustaining such traditions was essential for the country鈥檚 democratic transition, vowing to strengthen national unity against fascism and turn it into the driving force for future democratic progress.
During the BNP鈥檚 47th founding anniversary on Monday, an NCP delegation, led by its chief organiser Sarjis Alam, exchanged greetings with BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed at the BNP鈥檚 Gulshan office.
The two sides held around 20 minutes of discussion, highlighting the need for mutual respect, dialogue, and commitment to the people鈥檚 interest as the foundation of political engagement.
After the meeting, BNP leader Salahuddin Ahmed told reporters that the post-July uprising democratic聽 journey carried high expectations, particularly a renewed commitment to nurturing democratic practices.
He said that parties, despite their differences, needed to maintain respectful discussions and debates to replace the undemocratic culture of the past.
鈥楤y fostering democratic values, we can defeat fascist politics and achieve a lasting democratic transition where no one can disrupt democracy again,鈥� Salahuddin said.
Sarjis Alam said that BNP鈥檚 spirit of nationalism should continue to guide its work for the country and its people.
He criticised ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina for undermining democracy and eroding the political culture of cordial relations among parties.
Sarjis further said that Bangladesh鈥檚 future progress depended on reviving such harmony, noting that differences and criticism are natural in politics but mutual respect is essential for democratic advancement.
NCP senior joint convener Shamanta Sharmin said that Bangladesh鈥檚 political culture must move beyond weapons and money, with greater focus on party manifestos and leaders鈥� sincerity towards the people.
She said that attempts to destabilise universities in recent days must be resisted by all political parties, condemning moves to stop the CUCSU and DUCSU elections.
She also said that Bangladesh鈥檚 highest court should never be used for political influence.
