We appreciate the words of BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir who recently asserted that Bangladesh must never be split along religious lines. 

We are living at a moment in time when divisive rhetoric is threatening to fracture societies across the world, and at such times, these words of togetherness and tolerance are of particular significance. 

Indeed, such words are also salient in the month of December and echo the spirit of 1971; our Liberation War was fought and victory was achieved not for and by one community alone. This victory was for the dignity and freedom of all Bangladeshis, regardless of faith.

Be it Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, or any other faiths, this land has always been one where people have lived side by side, contributing to our collective culture and progress. As such, any forces looking to undermine this harmony by weaponizing religion is nothing if not an outright betrayal to our very past, present, and also our future.

Religious tolerance is therefore, for any and all political leaders, also a practical necessity. This nation will always thrive when diversity is embraced; our democracy will be strengthened when all voices are heard and our standing and reputation globally will strengthen when we uphold pluralism. 

The path forward, therefore, is clear: We must remain a nation where every religion is free to exist and flourish. Temples, mosques, churches, and all other places of worship must continue to be symbols of coexistence rather than conflict.

Let us collectively guard against any forces that seek to exploit faith for power. A better Bangladesh is a Bangladesh for everyone.