Rakibul Islam Bokul, a seasoned figure in Bangladeshi politics, has been an integral part of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) since 1984. Amidst the ebbs and flows of his political odyssey, he currently holds the position of Secretary for Student Affairs in the National Executive Committee. His political acumen was recognized early on when he was elected as the General Secretary of the Fazlul Haq Hall student union at Dhaka University, amid the fervent anti-autocracy movement of the 90s. Over the decades, Bokul has undertaken numerous vital roles within the party, demonstrating commitment and integrity. Despite facing upheavals during the 1/11 political crisis and subsequent adversities under the Awami League administration, Bokul remains steadfast in his political journey with the BNP. In an insightful discussion with Bangla Outlook, this leader from Khulna sheds light on various facets of the current political landscape. The interview was conducted by the Dhaka correspondent of Bangla Outlook.

Bangla Outlook: After being a part of the BNP for nearly four decades, what continues to draw you to the party?

Rakibul Islam Bokul: My primary source of inspiration has consistently been the late President Ziaur Rahman. His pivotal role in our nation's independence, coupled with his exemplary life marked by diligence, honesty, and patriotism, continually fuels my motivation. President Ziaur Rahman's legacy in fostering patriotism is unparalleled. He remarkably transformed Bangladesh, once disparagingly referred to as a "bottomless basket," into a nation with a promising vision. His foundational principles, visionary leadership, and unwavering ideals are what propel me forward.

Bangla Outlook: Your political journey has undoubtedly had its share of challenges. What have you derived from your experiences in politics and within the BNP?

Rakibul Islam Bokul: With clear objectives and unwavering faith, aligning with the party's ideals to achieve our goals is indeed feasible.

Bangla Outlook: President Ziaur Rahman's historic "We revolt" declaration from within a military barrack galvanized 75 million people. Do you deem such a declaration necessary in today's context?

Rakibul Islam Bokul: This topic warrants a more extensive discussion. President Ziaur Rahman's profound patriotism and thoughtful consideration for the nation were evident long before the liberation war. When he witnessed the political leaders of the time abandoning the country in a crisis, he emerged as a beacon of hope. Since then, his commitment to realizing the dream of a modern Bangladesh, with a collective resolve of "We will build this country together," has been evident. His initiatives to bolster the rural economy, modernize agriculture, and initiate an industrial revolution, all underscored by a unified effort, have marked significant progress towards modernizing the country in a short span. Had he been granted more time, Bangladesh could have rivaled nations like Singapore or Malaysia today. His emphasis on collective action, devoid of ego, under the mantra of "We," is a testament to his leadership. This ideal is still cherished and upheld within the BNP, with Begum Zia and Tarique Rahman moving forward with this collective spirit.

Bangla Outlook: In the face of continuous movement over the past 18 years and apparent setbacks, do you identify any areas of improvement in the BNP's approach?

Rakibul Islam Bokul: The ideological foundation laid down by Ziaur Rahman, rooted in Bangladeshi nationalism, accentuates the nation's sovereignty, independence, and the people's right to voice and vote. Emphasizing that power emanates from the populace, he aimed to work in tandem with them, a principle that has guided the BNP from its inception. His ambition to elevate Bangladesh's stature in South Asia and establish a significant presence in the Muslim world was met with resistance from dominating forces, leading to recurrent obstacles for the BNP. These forces have consistently endeavored to stymie the BNP's progress, fearing the actualization of Zia's vision which would render the country self-reliant and formidable on the global stage. Numerous conspiracies have been orchestrated to impede our progress. Nonetheless, under the steadfast leadership of our national leader Begum Khaleda Zia, we have tenaciously fought for and reinstated democracy. Despite facing relentless adversity, including attacks on our party during the 1/11 political upheaval and persecution of our leaders and activists, the unwavering support and affection from the populace have rendered these conspiratorial efforts futile. The BNP continues to rise, bolstered by the love and support of the people, despite attempts by Moin Uddin, Fakhruddin, and their cohorts to sow discord within our ranks.

Bangla Outlook: In light of the persistent struggles, has the BNP fully recuperated from these setbacks?

Rakibul Islam Bokul: Adversarial forces remain active to this day. Our acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, was targeted for assassination, taken into custody in good health, only to be returned in a dire state, necessitating hospitalization. This ordeal was witnessed by the entire nation. By divine grace, he survived. The populace aspires to see Tarique Rahman, the heir to President Zia and Begum Khaleda Zia, unify the nation once again and advance towards the realization of a modern Bangladesh, as envisioned by Zia. The unwavering support for him from the masses attests to their belief in his leadership. He has unequivocally demonstrated our collective capability to triumph over adversities. We have prevailed in the past, and we shall do so again. United, we are resolved to liberate our country from tyranny and usher in the era of a modern Bangladesh.

Bangla Outlook: Given the ruling party's multifaceted tactics, how is the BNP navigating through these challenges?

Rakibul Islam Bokul: The faith vested in President Ziaur Rahman by the people in 1971, followed by the trust placed in Begum Khaleda Zia's leadership, remains steadfast. Post-1971, the political landscape saw the governance by Awami League, BAKSAL, and Jatiya Party, during which the populace witnessed deviations from democratic principles, infringement of rights, plundering of national wealth, and attempts to cede control to foreign and adverse forces. The people have been the ultimate judges of these actions. Despite the harrowing times, the oppressive regime, and the torture inflicted, the unwavering allegiance to the BNP by the masses has not waned. The escalating cost of living, the pervasive struggle for basic sustenance, and the prevailing silent famine have not deterred the people's support for the BNP. A poignant example of this undying support was evident on January 7th when the populace heeded the BNP's call to abstain from voting. Despite the government's extensive resources and incentives, a mere fraction, not exceeding three percent of the electorate, was mobilized to the polls. This scant turnout, which also questioned the fairness of the voting process, signifies that a staggering ninety-seven percent of the populace trusts in the BNP's vision. They harbor the belief that though the BNP may face temporary setbacks, it will inevitably prevail. This enduring trust and belief in the BNP constitute the bedrock of our strength.

Bangla Outlook: The acting chairman of the BNP has been subjected to misrepresentation and disparagement through various conspiracies. What measures has the BNP adopted in response to these underhanded tactics?

Rakibul Islam Bokul: Since the political turmoil of 1/11, there has been a deliberate effort to undermine our acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, with strategies extending to attempts on his life. It became apparent to our adversaries that Tarique Rahman embodies the potential to liberate our nation, emulating the legacy of his father, President Ziaur Rahman. Recognizing his potential made him a target. At that juncture, neither our party nor the populace was fully prepared to counter such malevolent schemes. Exploiting vulnerabilities within our ranks, our adversaries found an opportune moment to execute their plans. Miraculously, by the grace of Allah, he survived these attempts. The populace has grown cognizant of these malicious endeavors, which has galvanized a more organized and united front within our party and among our supporters. Such nefarious incidents are less likely to recur as the populace itself serves as a formidable bulwark against these conspiracies. The relentless propaganda campaign launched against him post-1/11 has failed to bear fruit, with not a single allegation substantiated to date. Even the current regime has been unable to furnish any credible evidence over the years. These machinations were orchestrated as part of both domestic and international conspiracies, well aware that Tarique Rahman, as the rightful heir to President Zia's legacy, possesses the capability to lead not only Bangladesh but also to assert its prominence in South Asia and beyond, cementing its status as a formidable nation on the world stage. This potential threat is what perpetuates the continuation of these conspiratorial efforts against him.

Bangla Outlook: Despite the web of conspiracies, can the BNP fulfill the aspirations of the people?

Rakibul Islam Bokul: Efforts to silence Tarique Rahman, including judicial measures to curtail his freedom of speech, have proven futile. His voice, undeterred, has resonated with the hearts of the people. Attempts to expunge his statements from social media have met with failure, a testament to his enduring presence in the hearts of the citizenry. The conspiracies against him are not merely domestic; they are part of a broader agenda orchestrated by foreign entities aiming to stifle any emergent leadership capable of steering Bangladesh towards a global leadership role. The ultimate goal is to prevent the rise of a leader capable of commanding global respect and influence. However, these efforts have been thwarted. Tarique Rahman has demonstrated, both domestically and internationally, his adeptness in safeguarding the populace from the clutches of this fascist regime. This resilience and unwavering commitment to the people's cause are our true victories.

Bangla Outlook: After enduring such an extended period of struggle, do you envisage a need for a shift in the party's leadership?

Rakibul Islam Bokul: Transition in leadership is an intrinsic aspect of a political party's evolution. However, the challenge often lies in identifying and instating the right leadership, hindered by the lack of a conducive political environment. The requisite space for democratic processes and leadership selection is conspicuously absent, compounded by ongoing repression and persecution. Consequently, opportunities for thoughtful leadership selection are often curtailed, leading to delays and complications. Despite these impediments, the steadfast leadership that has navigated past movements continues to guide us successfully. We have managed to maintain a strong bond with our leaders and activists, who, under effective leadership, have consistently stood against the authoritarian regime.

Bangla Outlook: What strategies are in place to engage students and workers in the movement?

Rakibul Islam Bokul: Students and workers have historically played pivotal roles in our movements. Despite the adversarial educational climate and the monopolization of student organizations on campuses, the spirit of resistance among students remains undeterred. The closure of major industrial establishments has weakened workers' unions, yet recent demonstrations in regions such as Gazipur, Savar, and Ashulia highlight the workers' resolve to claim their rights, even at the cost of their lives, bolstering our optimism for the downfall of tyranny. The party is poised to fortify our student and worker wings, mobilizing a substantial movement in the near future.

Bangla Outlook: Is there a concerted effort to detach students from patriotism by fostering a corporate mindset?

Rakibul Islam Bokul: While I do not wholly subscribe to this notion, it is evident that vested interests are scheming to marginalize the nation's intellectuals or expel them altogether, allowing these groups to plunder and dismantle the country's fabric for their gain. However, the patriotic fervor among students is unmistakable, as evidenced by their successful campaigns against the quota system and for safer roads. This fascist government, however, is apprehensive of empowering these collective forces, fearing the potential upheaval of their regime and the jeopardy it poses to the entrenched elite. The specter of a democratic force taking the helm terrifies them, prompting them to alienate individuals from politics, quell movements for rights, and resort to extreme measures against dissenters. This climate of fear has led some to dissuade their offspring from political engagement. Nevertheless, the public has awakened to the untenability of this culture. The people have risen, and under the leadership of Tarique Rahman, they see the embodiment of President Ziaur Rahman's legacy, fostering hope for a revolution that will dismantle this fascist government.

Bangla Outlook: How hopeful are you about the future?

Rakibul Islam Bokul: My optimism is boundless. In the wake of the January 7th elections, the entire nation stands united under Tarique Rahman's leadership. The baton of politics is now in the hands of those committed to democratic principles, firmly held by Tarique Rahman. Opposing this democratic tide is a fascist government, clinging to power through state machinery, yet decisively rejected by the populace. A government forsaken by its people cannot sustain its reign, a truth evidenced in history and destined to repeat. The precarious state of this interim regime is acknowledged even by its insiders, who ponder their imminent dissolution. We are at the threshold of a pivotal juncture in our political journey, with the people's mandate clear and only time standing between us and our destined victory.

Bangla Outlook: We appreciate your insights.

Rakibul Islam Bokul: My gratitude extends to Bangla Outlook as well.