Social media destroying political culture: Mirza Fakhrul

BNP Secretary General and Local Government Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said that political culture has reached an alarming state due to social media. He also expressed deep concern over democracy and healthy political practice.

He said attempts are being made to disrupt the democratic process. Democracy is currently in crisis.

He made these remarks at a discussion organised at the National Press Club on Friday, June 5, marking the 52nd death anniversary of late politician Mahbubul Haque and the 12th death anniversary of former Krishak Dal president Mahbubul Alam Tara.

Fakhrul said the country had an opportunity to return to the democratic path through the 2024 mass uprising. But now, a planned effort is being seen from various quarters to obstruct that process. Attempts to create anarchy are underway everywhere, which is a bad omen for democracy.

He said political culture has reached an alarming state due to social media. Attempts are being made to tarnish the image of political leaders in the eyes of the public through character assassination, propaganda and disrespectful campaigns.

He alleged that an organised conspiracy is underway to destroy politics, and some groups are using language and tactics that are undermining the country's normal political process.

Explaining BNP's political position, Fakhrul said BNP believes in liberal democratic politics. The party does not believe in revolutionary politics; rather, it wants to take responsibility for running the state through movements and elections alongside the people.

BNP Vice Chairman Shamsuzzaman Dudu also spoke at the event. He said various propaganda is being spread against BNP and its leaders, with organised mockery and misinformation being disseminated on social media. He called upon party activists to remain vigilant and claimed that the people are with BNP and the current government.

Speakers called on all parties to play a responsible role in protecting the country's democratic environment, political tolerance and freedom of expression.