Dhaka, Nov 26 (UNB) – BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Tuesday expressed deep concern over efforts by ‘disturbing elements’ to stifle press freedom and urged everyone to refrain from such "suicidal activities".

“Very unfortunately now a terrible act has started which is an attack on the press freedom and freedom of expression for which we’re always fighting,” he said while launching a book on BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman at a city hotel.

The BNP leader claimed that their party Chairperson Khaleda Zia fully ensured the freedom of the press upon coming to power in 1991.

"But we are now witnessing that some stubborn and provocative elements are attempting to obstruct and destroy press freedom in various ways. No conscious and patriotic individual can accept this," he said.

Fakhrul went on to say, "I urge everyone to refrain from such suicidal acts and work towards giving democracy an institutional shape."

He also urged the students involved in such activities to step back and exercise patience.

The BNP leader said it is not feasible for the current interim government to resolve all issues at once. "We need to be patient so that the election can be held after minimal reforms.”

He also said their party is not opposed to state reforms, as it also wants the election to take place following the necessary overhaul of the state institutions.

The BNP leader said they often advocate for elections as the current problems and challenges cannot be addressed without elected public representatives. "Only an elected government, with public support and a clear mandate, can resolve these issues.”

The book, titled ‘Tarique Rahman: Politics and Policies in Contemporary Bangladesh’, was written by journalist Zainal Abedin.

In the 571-page book, various aspects of the life, work, and politics of BNP leader Tarique Rahman have been depicted in detail.

Fakhrul said many people are increasingly concerned about the current situation in the country and the incidents unfolding.

"Our enemies, who have retreated from the front, are now making efforts from behind to destabilise the country again. We must remain very vigilant. Unfortunately, the people of our country have lost their patience. They must exercise restraint and offer full cooperation to the interim government," he said.

The BNP leader warned that if the interim government fails, the country could be plunged into darkness once again. "If this government fails, the country will fail, and the mass uprising will fail," he observed.

Fakhrul also mentioned that Tarique Rahman maintained constant contact with the party's leaders at all levels, from union to central committee, providing necessary directives.

"Tarique not only led the BNP but also helped organise the students for the mass uprising and played a crucial role in ousting Sheikh Hasina," he said.

"Through his efforts, Tarique Rahman quickly organised all the parties, leading to a student revolution. We, who work with him, can always appreciate his extraordinary organizational skills and his remarkable democratic mindset,” the BNP leader said.

END/UNB/ARJ/FH/SAM/ /1954 Hrs