Prime Minister to address May Day rally on May 1

BNP’s labour wing, Jatiotabadi Sramik Dal, will organise a large May Day rally on May 1 at 2:30pm in front of the party’s central office in Nayapaltan, Dhaka, marking International Workers’ Day 2026.

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, who also serves as Prime Minister in the party’s leadership structure, is expected to attend the programme as chief guest. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir is likely to join as special guest, along with senior party leaders and representatives from affiliated organisations.

The announcement was made at a press briefing on Thursday at the BNP central office by Standing Committee member Nazrul Islam Khan, who is also political adviser to the party chief.

He said extensive preparations are underway to ensure a “massive and historic” gathering of workers. Preparatory meetings began on Thursday and will continue until the day of the rally.

Nazrul Islam Khan said May Day represents the long struggle of workers for dignity, fair wages, and humane working conditions, rooted in the historic labour movement that led to the demand for an eight-hour workday in the late 19th century.

He added that the spirit of solidarity and sacrifice continues to inspire workers across the world, including in Bangladesh.

Referring to the organisation of the rally, he said the event is being arranged through voluntary contributions. “This is a demonstration of self-reliance,” he said.

He also described journalists and media workers as part of the broader working class, urging their support in making the event successful.

Speaking on labour issues, he acknowledged that all demands cannot be met immediately but said efforts are ongoing for workers’ welfare. He noted that some commitments in election manifestos may take time to implement due to global economic and political conditions.

Nazrul Islam Khan said this year’s rally will focus on the implementation of previously raised but unresolved demands rather than introducing new ones.

BNP leaders expressed hope that the programme will see large participation from workers across Dhaka and surrounding areas, turning it into a significant political and labour mobilisation event.