BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman has warned that even though the Awami autocratic regime has fallen, invisible forces are rising yet again.
Speaking as the chief guest via video conference at the triennial council of Kishoreganj district BNP on Saturday, he added, “If we truly care about the nation’s interests and the rights of the people, we cannot afford to sit idle.”
He added that the interim government has put forward some proposals for reform, but 95% of those proposals were presented by the BNP more than two and a half years ago.
Tarique pointed out, “Many political parties gave their opinions on reforms, and BNP did the same. While there may be differences on some issues, there is no disagreement on ensuring people’s political rights, voting rights, safety and employment.
“These tasks cannot be fulfilled without a government established by the people’s mandate, a government that is accountable to the people.”
He noted that people are expecting to regain the rights for which they have struggled over the last 16 years. Political parties believing in democracy united the nation against autocracy so that citizens could reclaim their political rights.
Expanding on BNP’s vision, Tarique said the future must focus on educating the children, empowering women, providing training and employment opportunities for unemployed youth at home and abroad, and supporting small entrepreneurs.
He also spoke in favour of standing beside farmers with timely supply of fertiliser, seeds and pesticides, and ensuring access to healthcare as a birthright for all citizens. “If these are to be achieved, a government chosen by the people must be established,” Tarique said.
Looking ahead to the 13th national election, scheduled for February next year, Tarique said, “If we want to bring the people’s mandate in favour of our 31-point plan, we must remain united at any cost. There is no alternative to unity.”
Describing BNP as a “vast family,” Tarique urged vigilance so that no one could misuse the party’s name for personal gain or spread confusion among the people.
“Councillors are important for today’s conference, but for the party as a whole, the people are most important. We must stay with the people, stand by the people, and ensure their trust at all costs,” he said.
The council was held at the old Kishoreganj Stadium with district BNP President Shariful Alam presiding and General Secretary Mazharul Islam moderating.
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir attended as inaugurator, while Advisory Council member Abdus Salam was the special guest.
Joint Secretary General Habib-un-Nabi Khan Sohel was the keynote speaker, joined by Treasurer M Rashiduzzaman Millat, Organising Secretary Advocate Shah Md Warez Ali Mamun, Syed Emran Saleh Prince and Abu Wahab Akand.
From the morning, leaders and activists from different upazilas gathered at the stadium in processions. Several thousand participants created a festive atmosphere as the council began.
