Poet, writer, and researcher Farhad Mazhar has said that it will not take more than five years to make Bangladesh comparable to Europe.
Speaking as the chief guest at a discussion titled “Actions Needed by the Current Government to Restore the Economy Devastated by Awami Corruption and Plundering” organized by the Projonmo Academy at the Dhaka Reporters’ Unity in Segunbagicha he said this on Saturday.
He emphasized the need to harness the enthusiasm of the younger generation, which has recently emerged after being suppressed by the Awami government.
He said that this generation is united for the country’s interests and that leveraging this unity can transform Bangladesh into a prosperous nation.
Farhad Mazhar also acknowledged existing limitations and external pressures from neighboring countries.
He suggested that if essential needs cannot be met through straightforward means, the demands should be taken to the international level.
He warned of ongoing attempts to create chaos in the country but expressed confidence that, with unity, conspirators would be unable to succeed.
Farhad said that the country has been plagued by corruption and looting for a long time, resulting in a dire economic situation, but this too could be overcome quickly if the youth remain vocal.
He thanked Projonmo Academy members for supporting Professor Yunus during challenging times and urged them to seek opportunities to contribute to the current government’s efforts.
In his keynote address, Zonayed Saki, Chief Coordinator of the Ganosanghati Andolon, stressed the need for democratic forces to rise for a democratic state.
He highlighted the courageous role of the youth in bringing about state changes and emphasized the importance of maintaining and nurturing democratic power while removing obstacles to its development.
He underscored that the struggle is between fascist forces and the people, with the latter emerging victorious, and called for reflecting the people’s wishes in future governance.
Zahirul Islam Khalim, convener of the 7-Point Implementation Committee for Dr Muhammad Yunus and Editor of Daily Khola Bazar, urged everyone to unite in support of flood-affected people.
He said that an economic treason law should be enacted to repatriate all illicit wealth to the country and that the assets of Awami looters should be seized and deposited in the national treasury.
He called on the nation to remain vigilant against Indian hegemony and noted that while the youth had been oppressed under the Awami fascist government, opportunities for action have now arisen.
Projonmo Academy has demanded that the current government provide them with opportunities to contribute effectively.