BNP-nominated candidate for the Chittagong-7 constituency, Humam Quader Chowdhury, said his long-held dream was to sit in Parliament alongside former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia.
“I am alive today because of Begum Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman. Begum Zia is not with us today, but people still remember her and pray for her. She did not leave the country even at a life-and-death crossroads. My dream was to sit in Parliament with her, but unfortunately that did not happen,” he told a large election rally in Rangunia on Monday.
The rally was organised by the Rangunia Upazila BNP at the Rangunia Adarsha Bahumukhi Pilot High School ground.
Humam said the massive turnout at the rally reflected the people’s support for the BNP’s electoral symbol, the paddy sheaf. “Today’s crowd proves that the soil of Rangunia is fertile for the paddy sheaf. You will prove it again through the ballot on the 12th. The tide of support for the paddy sheaf across the country shows that Tarique Rahman will be the next Prime Minister,” he said.
Referring to alleged repression faced by party leaders and activists, Humam said many BNP members had endured severe hardship.
“Many of our brothers have spent nights in wetlands and paddy fields and faced various forms of torture. I myself was a victim of disappearance and was kept in a mirror room for seven months. Those days are over. In the new Bangladesh, we have many responsibilities. Our work will not end with voting on the 12th; we must ensure the victory of the paddy sheaf,” he said.
He added that he had been familiar with the people of Rangunia since childhood. “Holding my father’s hand, I travelled across Rangunia and listened to the sorrows and sufferings of the people. My father was always by your side. I want to remain by your side for the rest of my life.”
Humam pledged to work for peace and development in Rangunia if elected. “I have come to stand by you in both happiness and sorrow. If you elect me, I want to dedicate myself to the people of Rangunia. From repairing roads to improving schools and hospitals, everything must be done together,” he said.
Addressing concerns over the distribution of family cards, he said, “Many people have doubts about who will distribute the family card. I promise that I will personally oversee the distribution so that people receive their rightful benefits.”
He also called for public cooperation to curb illegal sand extraction and the drug trade in the area. “If we want to stop these activities, we must work together and stand by one another,” he said.
“I learned politics, patience and the spirit to fight from my father. I was confined in a mirror room for seven months, but I have returned to you stronger than ever with your prayers and blessings,” he added.
Salahuddin Quader Chowdhury’s eldest son, Faizul Quader Chowdhury, also addressed the rally. The event was chaired by Rangunia Upazila BNP Convener Qutubuddin Bahar.
