Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Sunday expressed confidence that Bangladesh would be able to build a state where justice, fairness and the rule of law prevail, saying he has faith in both the country's people and its democratic forces.
"We have faith and confidence, faith in our people and in the democratic forces, that we will certainly be able to build a state where justice, fairness and the rule of law are established," he said.
He made the remarks while addressing a programme organised by the National Editors Council at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB) in the capital's Ramna, where journalists who were martyred during the July uprising were honoured.
Fakhrul said the previous "fascist government" systematically destroyed all democratic institutions in Bangladesh in an attempt to impose a one-party system and pro-democracy forces were subjected to killings and repression during that period.
He said such reminders are necessary so that people do not forget the damage inflicted on the country's democracy and the future of its younger generation.
Recalling Bangladesh's political history, Fakhrul said the struggle for democracy effectively began after 1971, alleging that those who took charge of running the newly independent country had betrayed the people's aspirations by introducing one-party rule.
"The people of this country did not accept it. History bears witness to that," he said, adding that Bangladeshis have repeatedly had to struggle, sacrifice and even lay down their lives to secure their rights.
Referring to the July mass uprising, he said it was the culmination of a 15-16-year movement to restore democracy.
The movement led by former BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia including during her imprisonment, followed by the student-led uprising and the sacrifices made by many people, created a new dream and a new hope for the nation.
He said he would not claim that all those aspirations have already been fulfilled but stressed that the country has gained a historic opportunity to rebuild the state.
"An election has been held, fascism has fallen and through that election we now have a democratic government," he said.
Acknowledging the enormous challenges inherited from the previous government, Fakhrul said it would not be possible to reverse 15 years of looting, destruction and repression within a short period.
"But the work has begun. There may be shortcomings and inconsistencies but it cannot be said that nothing has been done," he said.
Speaking about his long association with journalists, Fakhrul recalled visiting the Jatiya Press Club on many occasions and even being detained there one night alongside journalists.
"Neither they gave up nor did we. We continued our struggle," he said.
He urged political parties to stop creating unnecessary controversy and instead engage in constructive discussions.
Calling on opposition parties to join the parliamentary committee on constitutional amendments, Fakhrul said they should participate in discussions and cooperate in making necessary constitutional changes.
"We have carried out many movements and shed much blood. Now let us see whether we can reach consensus through discussion in parliament," he said.