The strength and survival of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) can be attributed to the strong leadership of Tarique Rahman, stated BNP Chairperson’s advisory council member Zainul Abedin Farroque.
Speaking at a rally organised by the BNP in Senbagh, Noakhali, to mark the first anniversary of the July Uprising, Farroque highlighted the resilience of the party under Tarique Rahman’s guidance.
He emphasised the challenges faced by BNP leaders and activists, recalling the widespread oppression, torture, and the systematic efforts to eliminate the party.
He pointed out that many of those who had once conspired against BNP and its members now face the consequences of their actions, unable to lead normal lives with their families.
“But our leader, Tarique Rahman, has always emphasised that we must not resort to violence or take the law into our own hands. It is under his strong leadership that BNP has endured,” Farroque stated.
In his address, Farroque also sent a message to Dr Yunus, the chief adviser of the interim government, urging him to take decisive action on the upcoming elections.
“We like you and we value your words,” Faruk stated. “But do not delay the election any further. The longer it is postponed, the more dangerous the anti-democratic forces grow. These forces, fueled by money, must be stopped. Elections are the only way to bring about justice, and we expect you to hold them.”
Farroque continued, calling for the prosecution of those responsible for corruption and oppression.
He also stressed the need for unity within the opposition to fight the current government’s autocratic rule. “If we don’t stand united, how can we challenge these autocrats? Elections will definitely take place in this country, and BNP will play an essential role in them. Without BNP, no election will be legitimate,” he said.
He concluded by reaffirming BNP’s commitment to patience and perseverance, acknowledging the importance of maintaining unity within the party as they continue to fight for democracy. “We must work together to remove the autocratic forces and ensure a free and fair election,” Farroque added.