The Bangladesh Journal - Chief Adviser calls for national unity to establish 'real democracy'

UNB, Dhaka :Chief Adviser Dr Fakhruddin Ahmed on Thursday urged all to work together rising above all differences for building up a liberal and modern democratic Bangladesh, saying national unity is essential at this end. He was speaking at a meeting with the leading members of Buddhist community on the occasion of Buddha Purnima at the International Conference Centre.

"We're working ceaselessly to elevate the country into a real democracy, to establish good governance and for quick socioeconomic development. Efforts are on to give the country a strong and permanent foundation. So, national unity imbued with patriotism is essential," the CA told the meeting.

Dr Fakhruddin expressed his belief that the nation could reach the desired goal through combined efforts and cooperation of all and would be able to establish a happy, prosperous and self-reliant Bangladesh.

On communalism and religious militancy, the head of the caretaker government mentioned his April 12 address to the nation where he called for giving up all kinds of communalism, religious or ideological militancy, intolerance and fanaticism and also called for keeping the nation free from any religious and social division.

The present government is determined to implement those words, he said.

Dr Fakhruddin said the government is committed to ensure equal rights for the people of all religions and faiths, which is constitutionally recognized. "Whatever are the achievements and successes, the country belongs to all. Here, all irrespective of religion, color and caste are the citizens of the country." He said Bangladesh is a bright example of communal harmony in the world. People of different religious communities have set up a great tradition in Bangladesh by living peacefully maintaining cordiality and amity for decades after decades.

Greeting the members of the Buddhist community on the occasion of Buddha Purnima, the Chief Adviser said they are part of a big religious community of the world and they have a big responsibility to establish peace and harmony in this region as well as in the world. Religious Affairs Adviser Maj Gen (retd) Dr ASM Matiur Rahman, Sangharaj Dharmasen Mohathero,

Sanghanayak S Dharmapal and Parbatya Bouddha Sangha president Pragganando Mohathero also spoke on the occasion.