BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has sought the blessings and support of the residents of Korail slum within his Dhaka-17 constituency ahead of the upcoming electoral battle, pledging to secure their fundamental rights to education, housing, and healthcare.
Speaking on Tuesday afternoon at a brief session preceding a prayer meeting (doa mahfil) for the departed soul of the late BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia, Tarique identified himself as a dedicated worker of the party.
Addressing the crowd at the Mohakhali T&T Colony field, he reminded those present of his lineage as the son of Shaheed president Ziaur Rahman and Khaleda Zia, emphasising that his politics is dedicated to ordinary people like them.
Tarique was accompanied at the event by his wife, Zubaida Rahman. The programme, conducted by the BNP Chairman’s chief election agent Abdus Salam, also featured speeches from Farhad Halim Donar and Aminul Haq.
Vision for urban development, housing
Outlining his vision for the constituency, Tarique promised that if the BNP returns to power, they will gradually address the hardships of Korail residents by constructing high-rise buildings to replace the current slum.
He stated that the names of long-term residents would be registered to provide them with flats, ensuring they have a permanent place to live in the capital.
“Our goal and purpose are to improve your daily lives,” Tarique said. He committed to establishing a hospital, playgrounds, and two schools specifically for the children of Korail.
The BNP chairman stressed that children in the slum should have the same opportunities as those living in permanent buildings, including access to quality education, sports, and the chance to learn foreign languages.
Social welfare, utility reforms
Beyond local infrastructure, Tarique discussed broader social initiatives, including the introduction of “Family Cards” for women facing hardships across the country and “Farmer Cards” for agricultural workers. He also vowed to improve the national education system for the next generation.
Addressing local grievances, the BNP Chairman promised to take punitive action against those who harass or oppress the residents.
He specifically pledged to end extortion related to utility bills, asserting that once united, no one would be able to force residents to pay arbitrary fees for electricity, water, or gas beyond what is shown on their meters.
Tarique, who noted that he grew up in the same area, reaffirmed his lifelong commitment to the residents of Korail.
Following the afternoon event, he and Zubaida Rahman attended another prayer meeting on Tuesday night at the Chairman Bari in Banani in memory of Khaleda Zia.
Tarique Rahman is scheduled to formally launch his election campaign this Thursday in Sylhet, beginning with visits to the shrines of Hazrat Shahjalal (RA) and Hazrat Shah Paran (RA).
