State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaid Islam told Parliament on Tuesday that politics cannot be conducted through social media or bot networks. She said the BNP is a party that works on the streets rather than relying on online popularity. Speaking during the discussion on the motion of thanks for the President’s address, she argued that viral posts and online insults cannot replace real political engagement. She also questioned whether independence would have been achieved if social media had existed in 1971.

Her remarks drew a response from Opposition Chief Whip Nahid Islam, who demanded proof of any corruption allegations mentioned by the minister. Shama Obaid further stated that if the President or his speech were considered illegitimate, the legitimacy of the then government should also be examined. She emphasized that both government and opposition must play constructive roles for the nation’s development.

The minister concluded by calling for unity beyond partisan disputes, saying that if Parliament remains cohesive, it can lead the country toward qualitative progress.