BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has drawn a stark comparison between the alleged oppression under Bangladesh’s ruling Awami League and tyranny of the forces of Yazid, who were responsible for the tragic events of Karbala.
In a statement issued on the eve of the holy Ashura, Tarique Rahman said that the 10th of Muharram is a profoundly significant day in Islamic history, marked by countless pivotal events and forever tied to the sorrowful memory of Karbala.
“This day is one of mourning, reverence and supreme sacrifice,” he said, recalling how Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), the cherished grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), was martyred on this day while standing against injustice and oppression.
Tarique Rahman described the steadfast resistance and ultimate sacrifice of Imam Hussain (RA) as a timeless inspiration for Muslims and oppressed people worldwide, including in Bangladesh. “The suffering and martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA) to safeguard Islam reveal the essence of justice, piety, sacrifice, and human dignity before the Creator,” he said.
He termed the struggle of Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions as an unparalleled ideological battle against tyranny and moral decay, noting that their martyrdom continues to inspire those resisting oppression across the globe.
Drawing a parallel to the contemporary political situation in Bangladesh, the BNP leader alleged that over the past 16 years, the “fallen Awami fascist regime” has unleashed an era of ruthless exploitation, electoral fraud, disenfranchisement, enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, terrorism, and the siphoning off of national wealth.
He also reiterated his accusation that BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia was unjustly imprisoned in a politically motivated case and denied adequate medical treatment, putting her life at risk.
Tarique Rahman went on to equate the suffering imposed by Awami League leaders—many of whom, he pointed out, have now fled the country—with the cruelty of Yazid’s army.
“We must continue our relentless struggle to establish justice and fairness in our country, inspired by the spirit of sacrifice shown by Imam Hussain (RA) and his noble companions. This is essential to ensure that no heartless tyrant can ever rise again,” he asserted.
Concluding his message, the BNP acting chairman paid deep tribute to Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), his family members, and his companions on the anniversary of their martyrdom, praying for their eternal peace and forgiveness.
