BNP Secretary General and LGRD and Co-operatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Friday said Bangladesh has begun to rise from the ruins left behind by a previous government.
He made the remarks while addressing a May Day rally organised by the Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal at Nayapaltan in the capital, which drew a large turnout of workers and party supporters despite rain-soaked streets across the city.
"Today, Bangladesh has started rising from a heap of destruction. Under their rule, our agriculture was destroyed, our industries were devastated, our banks and insurance sector were ruined, and our economy had virtually sunk to the bottom," Fakhrul said.
Without naming anyone, he alleged that the previous government had severely damaged key sectors, including agriculture, industry, banking, insurance and the overall economy.
Highlighting the significance of May Day, Fakhrul said the day symbolises workers' long struggle and sacrifices for dignity, fair wages and fundamental rights.
He said workers in Bangladesh continue to face immense hardship, grappling with rising living costs, inadequate wages and the absence of basic protections.
Recalling the country's labour movement, Fakhrul said workers have repeatedly sacrificed their lives in the fight for justice and better working conditions.
He specifically mentioned the killing of garment worker Maqbool during a demonstration on December 10, 2022, calling it a stark reminder of the risks workers still face.
The BNP leader also drew attention to the plight of garment workers, tea garden labourers and day labourers, many of whom are struggling to survive amid economic hardship.
He urged the government to address their grievances and provide relief to the oppressed working class.
Referring to Prime Minister and BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman as a beacon of hope, Fakhrul praised his leadership and vision for a democratic and prosperous Bangladesh.
"Tarique Rahman has won the hearts of the people through his dedication and commitment. When he says, 'I have a plan,' it reflects his vision for a better future," he said.
He called on party leaders, activists and workers to unite behind Tarique Rahman's leadership to build a new Bangladesh founded on democracy, justice and prosperity.
Fakhrul also placed several demands on behalf of workers, including the introduction of a national minimum wage, better access to education and healthcare for workers' children, and improved living conditions for tea garden labourers.
He urged the Prime Minister to give these issues urgent attention.
Reaffirming BNP's commitment to democracy, Fakhrul said the struggle for workers' rights is inseparable from the broader fight for democratic values in Bangladesh.