Oli Ahmed Congratulates Mirza Fakhrul on Election as President

Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) President Dr Oli Ahmed has congratulated BNP leader Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on being elected the 23rd President of Bangladesh, wishing him good health and success in discharging his responsibilities as head of state.

In a statement issued on Thursday (August 20), Oli said that he and Mirza Fakhrul had worked together on numerous occasions during their long political journey and shared common commitments to democracy, independence, sovereignty, citizens’ rights and national interests.

Oli said presidential elections in Bangladesh had remained largely uncontested since 1991, leaving little scope for alternative leadership, experience and perspectives to be considered before Parliament and the people. He said this year’s contested election, after 35 years, had helped overcome that limitation to some extent.

He thanked the leaders and members of the 11-party alliance for nominating him as a presidential candidate, saying the alliance had played an important role in creating a democratic space for the contest.

According to Oli, the latest contest could serve as an important precedent for ensuring that future presidential elections are not reduced to merely formal approval of a decision taken by the ruling party. He said decisions concerning such an important constitutional position affect the country and its people and would ultimately be judged by history.

Addressing Mirza Fakhrul, Oli said every decision taken by him as president would have far-reaching implications for Bangladesh’s political culture, democratic practices and public confidence. He expressed the expectation that the new president would place the broader interests of the country and its citizens above personal, party and group interests.

He also called for respect for the people’s verdict in favour of state reforms in the referendum, along with accountability and an impartial and active role in promoting inclusive national dialogue.

Oli further said that although the presidential election had concluded, the struggle to protect citizens’ rights, democratic values, accountability and national interests would continue. He said his commitment to the country and its people would remain unchanged regardless of political office or electoral outcomes.

In his statement, Oli wished Mirza Fakhrul good health, longevity and success, expressing hope that he would serve as a symbol of national unity, dignity and public trust.

The statement was signed by Dr Oli Ahmed, Bir Bikram, on August 20, 2026.

-HIS