Tarique Urges Democratic Forces to Stay United for BD’s Progress

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman

“The autocrats against whom we fought are now on the run,” Tarique stated, addressing the biennial council of the Brahmanbaria district unit of BNP virtually. “While the head of the regime fled, many of its remnants remain active within Bangladesh, attempting to regroup.”

The council, held at Sohagpur Abbasuddin Khan Model College, marked a significant moment as it was the first such gathering in nearly 12 years, part of BNP’s broader efforts to revitalize its grassroots presence.

Tarique emphasized that the only way to secure the future of the country and its people is through unity. “We cannot allow these remnants of the authoritarian regime to regain control. If we are to protect ourselves, our families, and our nation, we must stay united. There is no alternative. Unity is our strength,” he asserted.

He acknowledged that democratic parties and organizations may differ on several political issues, such as the role of parliament, government tenure, and the prime minister’s term. However, he stressed that these differences should not impede the country’s rebuilding. "We can resolve these matters through dialogue. But if we spend too much time debating them, we risk falling behind in rebuilding Bangladesh," Tarique cautioned.

The BNP leader warned that the country and its citizens would bear the consequences if efforts to rebuild Bangladesh were hindered. "If we don’t prioritize the nation's progress, those who sought to dismantle democracy will be the ones who benefit," he stated.

Tarique reiterated BNP’s role as the largest political party in Bangladesh and called for its leaders and supporters to take charge in rebuilding the nation. “We must remain united and lead the charge in uniting all pro-democratic parties, organizations, and citizens who are committed to the country’s future,” he said.

He urged all political entities to prioritize national progress over party interests. "Ultimately, our actions and words must resonate with the people. The support of the people is crucial, and we must stay connected with them to earn their trust,” Tarique said.

Discussing democracy, he noted that political disagreements are common in all democratic nations, but the ultimate power lies with the people through their right to vote. Tarique criticized the current regime for undermining this right, accusing the Awami League of taking away the people's voting rights for the past 15 years through rigged and fraudulent elections.

He also condemned the ruling government for its disregard of accountability, accusing it of plundering public funds under the guise of development. "A government is only accountable when the people can choose their representatives freely, through their votes," he said.

Tarique reaffirmed BNP’s commitment to rebuilding Bangladesh, pointing to the party’s 31-point framework for the country's reconstruction, aimed at improving all sectors and addressing citizens' concerns. “The sooner we begin this process, the faster we can alleviate the people’s suffering and develop the nation,” he asserted.

In closing, he highlighted the need for unity within BNP and other democratic forces to protect the country from ongoing destabilizing efforts. "We make two pledges today: First, to remain united at all costs, and second, to rebuild Bangladesh alongside the people," he declared.