We must establish Ekushey spirit by combating corruption, bigotry: Dr. Iftekharuzzaman

The Transparency International Bangladesh Executive Director Dr. Iftekharuzzaman urged the nation to combat corruption and bigotry to realise the spirit of Ekushey and build a “New Bangladesh.”

Speaking after paying tribute to Language Movement martyrs at the Central Shaheed Minar on Saturday (February 21), he said corruption and sectarianism run counter to the values of February 21.

“Ensuring equal rights for women, religious and ethnic minorities, indigenous peoples, and persons with disabilities is central to the Ekushey spirit,” he added.

He also emphasised the broader meaning of International Mother Language Day, noting that the Language Movement was not about excluding other languages.

“While we honour the Bengali language, the movement’s spirit supports the equal right of all people to practice their mother tongue,” he said.

Highlighting obstacles to these rights, Dr. Iftekharuzzaman pointed to corruption and religious extremism as major barriers, calling for their elimination to ensure equal rights and unhindered language practice for all citizens.