Chief whip calls parliament 'house of the oppressed', urges unity

Chief Whip of the National Parliament, Md Nurul Islam, has called for unity to build a fascism-free, independent, and sovereign Bangladesh, describing the current parliament as a "house of the oppressed."

Speaking in the House today (30 April) during the discussion on the thanks-giving motion on the President's speech, the chief whip said, "We do not want to die; we all want to live together. We want to save the country first and then live. The current parliament must move forward with this philosophy."

The Chief Whip noted that while people were inspired by the dream of a democratic and discrimination-free society under Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, post-independence repression, the activities of the Rakkhi Bahini, famine, and political crises led to despair. He added that the establishment of Baksal had limited the democratic structure.

He added that later, President Ziaur Rahman tried to rebuild the economy and revive the country through production-oriented policies. After his death, he noted that the movement to restore democracy gained momentum under the leadership of Begum Khaleda Zia. 

Referring to recent experiences of torture, enforced disappearances, and political suppression, Nurul Islam said a possibility for a "new sunrise" has emerged.

In this context, he called on all sides to forget division and work together to build the country's future.

Citing Prime Minister and BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, he said that despite differences in political ideology, there should be unity to build a "fascism-free, independent, sovereign and humane Bangladesh."

He also urged the opposition to learn from past limitations to make Parliament more effective. 

"Making Parliament functional is more important than just making it lively. If Parliament is not functional, being lively alone is of no use," he said, calling for constructive discussion of national issues in the House.

He further stressed the need to avoid political revenge and division and build consensus in the national interest. Referring to the gas and energy issue, he said a united stance in Parliament had a positive impact on public perception.

The Chief Whip said both the government and MPs have decided to forgo personal benefits in the national interest.

"We will not take plots; we will not take cars. This decision is not for personal gain, but for the sake of the nation," he added. 

On recent parliamentary activities, he said a large number of laws and ordinances had to be processed in a short time. "We have worked on 133 ordinances, which is a record," he said, while also apologising to opposition members for certain limitations due to urgency.

He emphasised strengthening the legislative process, adding that bills will be presented in Parliament with greater scrutiny in the future.