BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Wednesday expressed concern that fascism could reemerge in the country in a new form and through different tactics.

“Fascism must not rise again. We all need to be careful so that no one can establish autocracy in a new way, with new tactics or a new appearance,” he said while speaking at the inaugural session of a views-exchange meeting with members of the Reporters Forum for Election and Democracy at a hotel in the capital’s Gulshan area.

He urged all to remain vigilant in protecting democracy, so that no authoritarian force can return under a new guise.

The BNP leader said people were not able to cast their votes freely over the last 16 to 17 years and the festive atmosphere normally associated with polling was destroyed.

“Elections are meant to be a festival of people’s participation. But in the past, that environment was ruined through the capture of polling centres and intimidation,” he observed.

Praising the role of journalists, Rizvi said reporters bravely highlighted many incidents during periods of political repression, which helped save the lives of many leaders and activists.

He said there were times when party activists were picked up late at night. “Even when police denied it, journalists exposed the incidents. As a result, many people were rescued.”

Rizvi also warned that recent incidents suggest a rise in rude and aggressive behaviour in politics, which reflect a fascist mindset.

He cautioned that any attempt to establish authoritarian rule by using religion will be even more dangerous.

The BNP leader said if voting rights are ensured, people will make the right decisions and democratic forces will be reflected.

Rizvi expressed hope that the next election will be held in a free and inclusive environment.