“Those who will win people’s votes will be the MPs”
– PM Sheikh Hasina
On Saturday (23 December 2023) Sheikh Hasina, President of the Awami League and Prime Minister of Bangladesh, addressed six public rallies through video links, emphasizing the party’s commitment to a participatory and peaceful parliamentary election on January 7. She explained that even unsuccessful aspirants from the party were encouraged to run to ensure widespread public participation. Hasina urged all candidates, both party-nominated and independents, to actively seek votes. She expressed a desire for a peaceful election, highlighting the importance of democratic processes for the country’s progress. Criticizing the boycotting opposition party BNP, she accused them of resorting to violence and arson and questioned their commitment to democracy. Hasina warned against allowing BNP and its ally, Jamaat-e-Islami, to jeopardize the country’s security, emphasizing the need to keep it free from war criminals and terrorists.
“The BNP does not take part in the polls. But they have unleashed arson attacks in the name of resisting elections like they did in 2013 and 2014.”
– PM Sheikh Hasina
The Prime Minister highlighted the developmental achievements of Awami League governments since 2009 and called for the continuation of the democratic process and the country’s progress. She asserted that the Awami League would not tolerate any threat to the people’s fate. The rallies were conducted virtually from Awami League’s Dhaka office, with senior leaders present, and nominees and leaders from six districts participating.
Sheikh Hasina’s Virtual Rally: AL’s Nationwide Public Engagement
Sheikh Hasina addressed public meetings held in six districts on a virtual platform from her party’s Dhaka office at Tejgaon on Saturday (December 23). The AL-organized rallies took place on Saturday (23 December 2023) at various locations, including the Public Library field in Kushtia, Wazir Ali School and College field in Jhenidah, Satkhira Government High School in Satkhira, Zilla Stadium in Netrakona, and Sheikh Russell Stadium in Rangamati. Additionally, gatherings were held at the party offices in Bamna and Patharghata upazilas of Barguna. Meanwhile, senior party leaders convened at the AL’s Dhaka office at Tejgaon, while party nominees and other leaders participated in the event from the six districts.
Prime Minister’s Directive on The Rallies
Inclusive Participation in a Peaceful Election
Sheikh Hasina, President of the Awami League, emphasized the party’s commitment to a participatory and peaceful electoral process. Not only party-nominated candidates but also those who failed to secure tickets were encouraged to run to ensure broad citizen involvement.
The Call for Door-to-Door Campaigning
All candidates, regardless of party affiliation, were urged to engage in door-to-door campaigning to connect directly with the voters. Hasina stressed that the true measure of success in the election would be the candidate who wins the hearts and votes of the people.
Maintaining Peaceful Democracy
Hasina reiterated her desire for a peaceful election, emphasizing the importance of people exercising their voting rights without fear. She expressed the belief that a democratic Bangladesh is a rapidly advancing Bangladesh.
“We want to secure the democracy because if democracy prevails in a country that country advances rapidly and we have proved that”- PM Sheikh Hasina
Critique of BNP’s Boycott
Sheikh Hasina criticized the opposition BNP for boycotting the upcoming election. She pointed out the BNP’s historical involvement in disruptive activities during elections.
Accusations Against BNP Leadership
Hasina questioned the credibility of BNP’s leadership, highlighting the legal convictions of Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman, including charges of corruption. She accused Tarique Rahman of orchestrating actions from London and condemned the recent incidents of violence allegedly instigated by the BNP.
Appeal for National Unity
Stressing the need to protect the country from perceived threats, Hasina labelled the BNP as a terrorist party and Jamaat-e-Islami as a party of war criminals. Urged citizens to unite to maintain the country’s independence and the spirit of the War of Liberation.
Successes Under Awami League Governance
Sheikh Hasina highlighted the achievements of Awami League governments since 2009, citing significant changes in the last 15 years. She emphasized the transformation of Bangladesh into a recognized developing nation and called for continued progress.
Ensuring Fair Elections and Democratic Continuity
PM Hasina assured the public that the upcoming election would be fair, allowing people to choose their desired candidates. She appealed to citizens to uphold the democratic process and maintain the ongoing development trajectory.
A Stern Warning
The Prime Minister warned against any attempts to manipulate the fate of the Bangladeshi people, emphasizing the Awami League’s commitment to protecting their interests.
Conclusion
The Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s virtual rallies on December 23, 2023, underscored the Awami League’s dedication to an inclusive and peaceful parliamentary election. She criticized the opposition’s boycott, questioned their commitment to democracy, and urged national unity. Emphasizing achievements and assuring fairness, Hasina issued a stern warning against threats to the democratic process and citizens’ well-being.
