People will not forgive Awami League without admitting mistakes: Press Secretary

Shafiqul Alam, press secretary to the chief adviser, said the Awami League would not regain public trust unless it formally acknowledges its past mistakes.

Speaking to reporters after visiting the Nijnanduali Nitai Gaurpal Seba Ashram in Magura’s New Bazar area on Friday (January 2), Alam said accountability and self-criticism are essential for any political party seeking to remain relevant in democratic politics.

He said the country is heading toward a widely participatory election, with candidates from various parties actively campaigning across urban and rural areas. However, he claimed the Awami League had “effectively disqualified itself” by failing to accept responsibility for its actions.

Alam noted that despite the passage of 17 months, the party has yet to acknowledge what he described as its past errors. “Without admitting mistakes, it is difficult to restore the confidence of the people,” he said.

He further alleged that political parties involved in violence against civilians and students lose their legitimacy to operate in the democratic space. “Politics cannot continue through intimidation or force,” he added.

Alam said public forgiveness depends on accountability, reiterating that failure to address past actions would prevent the party from rebuilding trust.

Assistant Commissioner Aminul Islam, Magura Sadar Police Station Officer-in-Charge Ashikur Rahman, Nitai Gaur Seba Ashram General Secretary Tarun Bhowmik, and local residents were also present there.