He made the remarks while speaking to reporters on Thursday (January 1) evening after signing the condolence book of late former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia at the BNP chairperson’s political office in Gulshan. He later held a meeting with BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman.
Sadiq Kayem said that “fallen fascists and their allies” are taking advantage of emerging divisions after the revolution and are hatching conspiracies and plots. Calling for unity, he urged all political parties and student organizations to stand together to thwart such attempts and realize the aspirations of the July Revolution.
“First of all, we are praying for Begum Khaleda Zia, a symbol of uncompromising struggle and a national leader,” he said. “We met Tarique Rahman, who shared important advice for the student community, including DUCSU, and called on all political parties and student organizations to work together.”
He said the politics of the future would be “pro-Bangladesh,” emphasizing that protecting the country, its people, land and sovereignty, and resisting hegemony, would form the foundation of future politics. “We will continue to fight unitedly along the path shown by Shaheed Ziaur Rahman and Begum Khaleda Zia,” he added.
Highlighting the voting rights of young people, Sadiq Kayem said that for the past 16 years, youths have been deprived of their right to vote. He stressed that the student community must play a united role in ensuring a free and fair election. He also said national unity is essential for any proposed referendum aimed at fulfilling the dreams of the July martyrs and restructuring the state.
Expressing concern over the lack of progress in the trial of martyr Sharif Osman Hadi, who was killed while speaking out against hegemony, Sadiq Kayem said those who carried out and planned the murder have yet to be arrested. He called on all political parties and student organizations to unite to ensure justice.
He concluded by expressing hope that if all anti-fascist forces remain united, Bangladesh will never lose its way again.
