BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said attempts to spread extremism and divert democratic discussions are causing frustration in society.

He made the remarks at a discussion at the National Press Club in Dhaka on Saturday, organised by Orpon Alok Sangha, an association of BNP leaders and activists who were victims of political repression.

“I want to remain optimistic and not be frustrated. But when I aspire to see a progressive society, when I want a proper system to ensure people’s rights and reduce inequality—yet I see attempts to divert thoughts in an entirely different direction by spreading extremism—then frustration is inevitable,” he said.

Fakhrul stressed the need for reforms in the state structure to ensure social protection for marginalised communities. “These problems cannot be solved in a scattered or patchwork manner. A specific vision and goal are required,” he added.

Blaming the Awami League for destroying institutions during the past 15 years, the BNP leader remarked, “The country has been bankrupted, and institutions have collapsed. It is unrealistic to think that this damage can be repaired within just one and a half years.”

He pointed to massive corruption as one of the main reasons behind the ongoing political crisis. “Upazila chairmen’s responsibilities have been taken over by MPs, which is not their job. Instead of making laws, they are discussing road repairs, building construction, and even whether cars should be purchased. The state system has turned into a mechanism of capture,” he said.

He also alleged that bureaucrats are now controlling everything, leaving even advisers powerless in many cases.

“A teacher from a small town has to come to Dhaka to solve problems, which should not be the case. This system ensures that bribes reach the centre. Teachers at universities, schools, and even nurses are appointed through bribery,” he added.