Parliament speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad today said people in Bangladesh are now showing greater interest in politics than in education and sports.

Speaking to journalists at the circuit house in Bhola around 11:30am during a visit to the district, he said the trend reflected growing political awareness in the country.

“Bangladesh achieved independence through political consciousness. At times, when authoritarian rule takes hold, students and young people take to the streets on behalf of the people and restore democracy,” he said.

He further added that strengthening democratic institutions and holding free and fair elections were essential for national progress and meaningful economic development.

“A parliament formed through a free and fair election will be able to move the country forward,” he said.

Earlier, the speaker was accorded a guard of honour at the Barishal Circuit House before leaving for Bhola.