President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said that a beautiful society must be built through love and mutual respect, not through politics of conflict or revenge.
He made the remarks while addressing the civic reception program organized at the Thakurgaon Government Boys’ High School grounds at 3 pm on Sunday (September 6). This was his first formal civic reception in his home district Thakurgaon after assuming office as the President.
Mirza Fakhrul said, “After the long struggle and bloodshed to establish democracy, Bangladesh has got the opportunity to move forward in a new way. Now, the main responsibility is to protect democracy and strengthen democratic institutions.”
He called for building a healthy political culture through dialogue and discussion, rather than conflict or confrontation, despite political differences. In his words, one of the greatest strengths of democracy is tolerance. An environment must be created where every citizen can live with equal rights, forgetting differences.
The President became emotional while delivering his speech in the regional language of Thakurgaon. He addressed the crowd, “I know you love Mok.” The crowd erupted in cheers.
Various plans for development
Regarding the development of Thakurgaon, the President said that the land acquisition work for the public university announced in the district has been completed. The process of recruiting teachers will also begin soon. He announced that the foundation stone of the university will be laid on Monday.
The President also highlighted the initiatives to establish a medical college in Thakurgaon, construction of playgrounds at the upazila and union levels, modern information complexes and regional offices of the National University. He also informed about the government’s various steps to reopen Shibganj Airport.
Mirza Fakhrul emphasized the importance of establishing agro-based industries to increase local employment. He urged the youth to speak out against drugs and become entrepreneurs instead of relying solely on jobs or contracting.
At the end of his speech, recalling his childhood and homeland, the President quoted a line from Rabindranath Tagore—’Let my name be known as, I am your man.’
He also pledged to work until the last day of his life to protect the country’s independence, sovereignty, and democracy.
At the beginning of the program, the President expressed his gratitude to the ministers, members of parliament, prominent citizens, military and civil officials, freedom fighters, teachers and students, farmers and workers, and leaders of various political parties present on the stage. He also extended his greetings to the people of different religions and communities of the district. The President also expressed his gratitude to his wife for standing by his side during his long political career.