People Are BNP's Political Strength: Tarique Rahman

Tarique Rahman, Acting Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), declared that the party’s political strength comes from the people. In a virtual address to the National Teachers' Conference today, he emphasized, “No conspiracy can defeat us if the people remain with us.” He also promised that if BNP were to gain power through the people’s mandate, one of its first actions would be to establish an "Education Reform Commission."

The conference, organized by the pro-BNP teachers' group Shikkhak-Karmachari Oikya Jote, was held at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB) auditorium, marking the 89th birth anniversary of BNP founder Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and National Teachers' Day.

Tarique Rahman stressed the importance of building a knowledge-based society to thrive in the competitive global arena, saying, “To succeed, we need to be equipped with logic, knowledge, talent, and scientific understanding.” He identified the modernization of education as the key to national progress.

Rahman also discussed the importance of teachers as role models for students, noting that their lack of respect and support in society undermines their ability to lead by example. He urged the state to create an environment where teachers feel valued and supported.

“The teaching profession is crucial. The government must make it an attractive and competitive field, particularly at primary and secondary levels, ensuring economic prosperity and respect for educators,” Rahman said.

He proposed that, on national days, teachers from primary and secondary schools should be invited to national events, reinforcing their importance to society and setting a positive example for students.

On political matters, Tarique Rahman emphasized that education and politics are inseparable. He argued that political decisions ultimately shape all aspects of governance, urging for a purified and transparent political system.

He also reiterated BNP’s commitment to political reform, citing the party's 31-point reform plan aimed at revitalizing the state, politics, and political institutions. He criticized the current administration for distorting the constitution and weakening key constitutional bodies like the Election Commission and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).

While acknowledging some procedural differences between BNP's reform proposals and those of the interim government, he expressed that the overall goals align. Tarique Rahman stressed that reforms and elections are both crucial for the country’s future, calling on his party’s members to stay vigilant and focused on the party’s core mission.

Finally, he highlighted the need for measures to control the rising prices of essential goods, ensuring they remain affordable for low-income citizens.