BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Monday said the people of the country are celebrating this year’s Eid in a joyful and free environment, a stark contrast to the 15 years of oppressive rule under the Awami League’s fascist government.

Speaking to the media after paying homage to BNP founder Ziaur Rahman on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, he also expressed the hope that the interim government would restore democracy and people's right to vote, fulfilling its promises to the nation.

“There is a significant difference between this year’s Eid and the Eid celebrations over the past 15 years. This time, we are celebrating Eid in a free, joyful atmosphere,” the BNP leader said.

He said the people of the country have fought for democracy, the right to vote, the right to food, and the establishment of human rights over the last 15 years.

Fakhrul said they prayed to the Almighty Allah on Eid day for this struggle to come to fruition through the restoration of democracy and the fulfillment of people's rights.

“On this day, we hope that everyone who holds responsibility will succeed in their duties, and especially that the interim government will fulfil the promises they made to the people,” he said.

Fakhrul mentioned that their party leaders and workers have vowed on this day to fulfil their own promises to the people.

He said they prayed to Allah so that every Bangladeshi can celebrate Eid with happiness. “We also prayed for the speedy recovery of our leader Begum Khaleda Zia and for the immediate return of our Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman.”

Earlier, Fakhrul, along with party leaders and activists, paid homage to Zia by placing a wreath at his grave in the capital’s Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, marking the Eid.