Dhaka: Claiming that Bangladesh made progress and people’s lives improved whenever his party was in power, BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Friday urged voters to support the party in the upcoming election to change their fortunes. ‘We have seen in the past who truly stood by the people. If we consider all past actions, we will see that whenever the people of this country elected the sheaf of paddy, the country developed and people’s lives improved. So, as a candidate of the sheaf of paddy, I am asking for your votes,’ he said.
According to United News of Bangladesh, speaking at an election rally at the BRB Ground in Bhashantek under the Dhaka-17 constituency, Tarique urged people to bring his party back to power to implement its plans for national development. He emphasised his lifelong connection to the local residents and outlined a vision for national reform following a period of political upheaval, prioritising democratic accountability and the restoration of voting rights at all levels of government.
Tarique said the country had gone through difficult times over the last 15-16 years before the political changeover through a mass uprising on August 5, 2024. He said people across Bangladesh now want changes, including solutions to key problems such as safe movement, security, jobs for students, and employment for unemployed young men and women.
Pointing to former Bangladesh national football team captain Aminul Haque on stage, he expressed a desire to nurture talent in sports. He said every sector of the country and its institutions was weakened over the last 15-16 years, leaving Bangladesh in need of rebuilding. ‘If we want to rebuild, we must establish democracy. Only if you can democratically elect your representatives can you take your local problems to them,’ Tarique said.
Referring to the past 15 years, he said people could not approach so-called MPs with their area’s problems. He stressed the need for democratic elections at all levels to solve local problems and ensure development. The BNP leader said accountability is essential and elected representatives must know what the people want. He called on supporters to take an oath: ‘We will work together and build the country – Bangladesh first.’
In the beginning of his speech, he personally took the microphone and engaged with residents, asking them about their problems and expectations. They expressed desires for proper rehabilitation and employment opportunities for women. Tarique assured them that, with their support, if he wins the upcoming election, they will address these issues.
Several residents shared their concerns directly with Tarique Rahman. Md Jewel, a van driver, asked for resolutions to housing problems and road improvements. Hena Akhter, a student, requested better living standards for slum dwellers. Lili asked for family cards for women and jobs for unemployed youth. Shanta urged employment opportunities for women and access to the cantonment area for civilians.
Another woman sought forgiveness for past actions and raised grievances about land allegedly grabbed by an Awami League leader. Tarique asked her to plant a guava tree at her home and send some of its fruit as repayment. He promised to resolve housing problems and rehabilitate slum dwellers. The BNP Chairman also reiterated that, if his party comes to power, women will receive a Family Card to access either Tk 2,500 in cash or essential food items of equivalent value.