Bangladesh’s liberation or prosperity is not possible without democracy, National Parliament Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed Bir Bikram said. Strengthening the democratic system, he noted, is essential for ensuring the country’s economic progress.

Speaking to journalists at the Barisal Circuit House at 12 noon on Thursday, the speaker expressed hope that the parliament formed through a neutral election would be capable of moving Bangladesh forward.

“At present, people are more interested in politics than in education and sports. Bangladesh became independent due to political attraction,” Hafiz Uddin said.

He further stated that without democracy, Bangladesh cannot achieve liberation or social harmony. “From that perspective, politics is a positive force, as it has increased public awareness and strengthened people’s commitment to democracy.” This will help the country progress significantly, according to him.

The speaker also remarked that after 16 years of authoritarian rule, the way students and the public took to the streets and brought an end to a mafia system is a glorious chapter in Bangladesh’s history. “Democracy will be established in the country more firmly, and democratic governance will achieve economic progress,” he expressed hope.

Earlier, the speaker was accorded a guard of honour at the Barisal Circuit House. He later departed for Bhola.