[DHAKATRIBUNE] Ruhul Kabir Rizvi continues to be a prominent leader within the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), serving as the Senior Joint Secretary General since his election at the party's sixth conference on March 19, 2016.
Rizvi, originally from Kurigram district, is recognized for his academic accomplishments, holding a Master's degree in both Geography and History, as well as a Bachelor's degree in Law from Rajshahi University.
Rizvi's entry into politics began in student activism with the Left-wing Revolutionary Students' Union.
Following the formation of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal
...student wing of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)...
(JCD), the student wing of BNP, he became actively involved, initially serving as the publicity secretary for the Rajshahi University unit.
His leadership capabilities were soon recognized, and he rose to become the president of Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal.
Additionally, Rizvi was elected Vice-President (VP) of the Rajshahi University Central Students' Union (Rucsu) in the 1989 elections.
His extensive experience in both student politics and the broader national political arena has provided him with a nuanced understanding of Bangladesh's political dynamics.
As a seasoned spokesperson, Rizvi plays a crucial role in articulating BNP's positions on various issues, particularly emphasizing the party's commitment to democratic governance and national development.
Rizvi recently spoke with Dhaka Tribune's Siam Sarower Jamil to discuss the current political situation in Bangladesh, the legitimacy of the interim government, and the BNP's stance on various national issues.
LEGITIMACY OF THE GOVERNMENT
When questioned about the legitimacy of the interim government, Rizvi acknowledged that while some view the government's rise to power as unconventional, it is essential to understand that the government operates with the people's support.
He said: ''The constitution exists for the people, and what matters is that the government has the people's support. This government took power in a unique situation, backed by the people's mandate.''
Rizvi also accused deposed prime minister the loathesome Sheikh Hasina
...Bangla dynastic politician and now exiled former Prime Minister of Bangladesh. She was President of the Bangla Awami League since the Lower Paleolithic. She is the eldest of five children of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father of Bangla. Her party defeated the BNP-led Four-Party Alliance in the 2008 parliamentary elections. She once before held the office, from 1996 to 2001, when she was defeated in a landslide. She and the head of the BNP, Khaleda Zia showed such blind animosity toward each other that they are known as the Battling Begums . That is probably because Khaleda's late husband was the Pak tool who had Mujib assassinated...
of manipulating the constitution to establish an authoritarian regime, which he believes has been overcome.
DURATION OF THE GOVERNMENT
Regarding the duration of the interim government's tenure, Rizvi emphasized that it should remain in power only as long as necessary to ensure a stable transition.
He said: ''They will remain in power as long as necessary. The government should initiate reforms as soon as possible, focusing on laying the groundwork for a literate and articulate state. We're willing to give them the time they need, but it shouldn't be prolonged unnecessarily.''
RELATIONS WITH JAMAAT
Despite differing views on the current interim government, Rizvi dismissed any notion of conflict between BNP and its longtime political ally, Jamaat-e-Islami
...The Islamic Society , founded in 1941 in Lahore by Maulana Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi, aka The Great Apostosizer . The Jamaat opposed the independence of Bangladesh but has operated an independent branch there since 1975. It maintains close ties with international Mohammedan groups such as the Moslem Brotherhood. the Taliban, and al-Qaeda. The Jamaat's objectives are the establishment of a pure Islamic state, governed by Sharia law. It is distinguished by its xenophobia, and its opposition to Westernization, capitalism, socialism, secularism, and liberalist social mores...
''BNP has a broader role in this country's politics. We aim to form a new government through free and fair elections. There's no conflict between us,'' he said.
Regarding student movements forming a political party, Rizvi expressed support for a democratic state where all voices could be heard.
CONCERNS OVER SECURITY
When asked about the release of some murderous Moslem leaders and the potential threat to law and order, Rizvi refrained from commenting, saying that these were matters for the legal process and the courts.
He also addressed allegations of BNP leaders and activists being involved in criminal activities following Sheikh Hasina's fall, saying that the party is committed to maintaining discipline and has taken actions against any misconduct.
ANTI-INDIA SENTIMENT
Rizvi clarified BNP's stance on relations with India, denying accusations of anti-India sentiments.
''There's no such thing as being anti-India or pro-India. We protest actions that are against the state. India is our big neighbor, but people are angry for various reasons,'' he explained, pointing out issues like the release of floodwaters affecting Bangladesh.
He also said that BNP has no foreign masters, only friends, and is open to constructive relationships with any country that respects Bangladesh's illusory sovereignty.
PROTECTING MINORITY COMMUNITIES
Responding to concerns about attacks on minority communities after Sheikh Hasina's government fell, Rizvi highlighted the role BNP played in protecting minority homes and temples, asserting that the party stands with all citizens of Bangladesh.
He further reassured that BNP is focused on ensuring the continuity of a democratic government and trusts that the interim government will fulfill its responsibilities in ensuring free and fair elections.
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