BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman has called on supporters of democracy to vote for the Sheaf of Paddy, urging them to place their trust in the BNP to safeguard democracy, voting rights and freedom of expression.
“We want to build an inclusive, democratic Bangladesh by taking everyone along-people from the hills and the plains, regardless of religion or ethnicity,” he said.
Tarique made the remarks Sunday at an election rally at Chittagong’s historic Polo Ground, where BNP candidates from Chittagong, Cox’s Bazar and the hill districts were introduced. The rally drew a massive turnout of party leaders, activists and supporters.
He said the BNP envisions a Bangladesh where people from the hills and plains, Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists and Christians all live with equal rights. “To build that expected Bangladesh, all those who believe in democracy must come together,” he added.
Calling on voters, he said: “Those who believe in democracy, freedom of speech and the right to vote-I urge all of you to place your trust in the Sheaf of Paddy, in the BNP.”
Reiterating his party’s commitment to governing with public participation if elected, Tarique said: “Inshallah, if the Sheaf of Paddy and the BNP are elected, we will work hand in hand with hardworking people to rebuild the country. Our pledge is-work to build the nation, Bangladesh first.”
Stressing political unity for the restoration of democracy, he said: “If Bangladesh is to truly become a democratic state, all political forces must remain united. To honour the sacrifices of those who laid down their lives for democracy, including Wasim Akram, we must build the Bangladesh people aspire to.”
Alleging that a new conspiracy is underway, the BNP chairperson warned: “Just as your political and economic rights were taken away over the past 15 years, another conspiracy has begun. Everyone must remain vigilant so that no one can again snatch away your right to vote, to speak, or even to live.”
Outlining election-day instructions for party activists, Tarique said this time they should prepare not only by offering Fajr prayers but also Tahajjud prayers before heading to the polls. “Offer Tahajjud, then Fajr, and then go to the polling centres, stand in line and cast your votes,” he said.
Reaffirming a tough stance on law and order and corruption, he said: “The law will be equal for all. Crime will not be judged by party identity-crime is crime. Whoever is involved in corruption, the law will be applied equally. Anyone who tries to obstruct our plans through corruption will not be spared.”
Saying the time for change has come, Tarique noted that making this change meaningful requires unity beyond party lines and participation in politics aimed at improving people’s lives.
He also highlighted several social and economic programmes announced by the BNP, saying that if voted to power, the party would introduce family cards, farmer cards and health cards to ensure direct state support for the poor, farmers and the general public.
Later in the afternoon, Tarique addressed another election rally at the Feni Pilot School ground. Referring to family ties through his maternal relatives, he spoke of his connection with the people of greater Noakhali.
“Just as the people of Feni, Noakhali and Lakshmipur have demands from the BNP, the BNP also has one demand from you—to ensure victory for the Sheaf of Paddy in all constituencies,” he said.
Responding to local demands, Tarique said that a BNP government would establish a medical college in Feni. He also announced plans to strengthen village-based healthcare by appointing “health carers” who would provide primary medical services to women, children and the elderly at their homes, reducing the need for hospital visits for minor ailments.
Tarique formally launched his election campaign from Sylhet on January 22. With the Chattogram and Feni programmes, he is carrying out the second phase of his campaign outside the capital. This is the BNP’s largest rally at the Polo Ground since 2012.