ছবি: BNP's Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman delivered his speech virtually.
Tarique Rahman, the Acting Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has alleged that various "unseen forces" are working against his party, orchestrating conspiracies to hinder its efforts. Addressing a virtual workshop on BNP's 31-point reform agenda for Chattogram division leaders and activists, he urged patience and resilience in tackling these challenges. The event, held at the Engineers’ Institute in Chattogram on Wednesday, emphasized the party's commitment to overcoming adversities.
Highlighting the challenges of the upcoming national elections, Rahman remarked, "In my 35 years of political experience, I sense that this election will be more challenging than any before. If our primary political rivals had remained actively engaged in the field, the elections would still have been tough—but now, it will be even more so."
Revisiting Chattogram’s Historic Role
Rahman fondly recalled Chattogram's historical significance, describing it as the birthplace of Bangladesh’s independence, where the late President Ziaur Rahman declared the country’s liberation. “From this land of Chattogram, I present our 31-point agenda,” he stated, emphasizing its evolution from an initial 27 points. “We refined these points after consulting various political parties engaged in anti-authoritarian movements in Bangladesh. Now, it is the responsibility of our activists to take this message to every citizen.”
Power Lies with the People
Reaffirming BNP's belief in democracy, Rahman declared, "We believe the source of power is the people. Our goal is not merely to gain power but to secure the people's trust to govern the nation responsibly." He urged party activists to campaign with the slogan: “Give us the opportunity to serve the nation.”
Rahman warned against complacency among party members, referencing incidents that have tarnished BNP's image. “After August 5, I noticed some leaders behaving as if we are already in power. Such attitudes have led to controversies that harm the party’s reputation,” he said. Stressing the importance of maintaining credibility, he advised, “As representatives of BNP in your respective areas, ensure your actions do not alienate the people. If you lose their trust, how will you seek their votes in the future?”
Commitment to Free and Fair Elections
Criticizing elections marked by irregularities, Rahman stated, "We do not support midnight votes, dummy ballots, or stolen elections. Our commitment is to fair elections that reflect the true will of the people." He encouraged party members to remain close to the grassroots and foster trust among voters, adding, “We seek power only through the people’s support, not through shortcuts or undemocratic practices.”
Rahman reflected on the resilience of BNP leaders and activists over the past 15-16 years of oppression. “We’ve endured a lot to reach this point. Do not let minor mistakes undo the progress we’ve made,” he cautioned.
A Call for Unity and Responsibility
The workshop, presided over by BNP's Central Organizational Secretary Mahbubur Rahman Shamim, was inaugurated by Standing Committee Member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury. Other prominent attendees included BNP Chairperson's advisers Ismail Zabihullah, Golam Akbar Khondakar, and S.M. Fazlul Haque, along with Joint Secretary General Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Annie, Media Cell Chief Mowdud Alamgir Pavel, and Chattogram Metropolitan BNP leaders Ershad Ullah and Nazimur Rahman.
Leaders from BNP's Chattogram division, including representatives from 10 organizational districts and affiliated professional groups, participated in the session, demonstrating the party’s collective focus on aligning its vision and strategies ahead of the elections.
Rahman concluded with a firm message to BNP members, urging them to safeguard the trust they have built with the people. “You’ve come this far through perseverance. Protect that legacy and remain vigilant in your actions, ensuring our movement stays strong and unified.”
repoter