Unity is key to strengthening democracy and driving development: Anee

Water Resources Minister Md Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee today said strengthening the foundation of democracy through unity, irrespective of political affiliations, is the key task for the country.

"Bangladesh will eventually be developed even if we can carry out routine work. Otherwise, we will face obstacles at every step. Therefore, it is crucial at this moment for everyone to work together and strengthen the hands of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman," he said.

Anee, also BNP Joint Secretary General, made the remarks as the chief guest at the annual general meeting and scholarship distribution programme of 'Lakshmipur Samaj Unnayan Parishad' at a restaurant in the town this afternoon.

Scholarships were distributed among 25 meritorious students at the programme.

The minister said there had been no elections in the country for the past 17 years, but the process now resumed in a new way.

"We formed the government through a free and fair election following our movement. Now, we have to rebuild Bangladesh for its people. We must take this journey a long way forward," he said.

Anee said the country would have to overcome many difficulties to achieve its desired goals.

"Therefore, wherever we are, our responsibility is to move forward in the coming days by maintaining unity among ourselves and extending all-out cooperation," he added.

The minister said Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman had been able to build a self-reliant Bangladesh in just three and a half years during his tenure.

He also said former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia had devoted her life to struggles and movements for the country's independence, sovereignty and democracy. Their son, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, is now leading the country, he added.

"I can say that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has embarked on his journey with noble initiatives. He will succeed if we maintain unity and extend our cooperation to him," Anee added.

Lakshmipur Samaj Unnayan Parishad president Mohammad Saif Uddin presided over the programme.

Among others, Bangladesh Football Federation Vice-President Wahid Uddin Chowdhury, Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Kyathowai Prue Marma, District Nationalist Lawyers' Forum President Hafizur Rahman, former District Bar Association President Shahadat Hossain and Lakshmipur Municipality BNP President Rezaul Karim Liton attended the programme.