Ishraque Hossain, the BNP-nominated candidate for the Dhaka-6 constituency, has pledged permanent solutions to the long-standing issues of Old Dhaka, including the gas crisis, waterlogging, broken roads, pollution, and traffic congestion.
He asserted that by re-establishing democracy and development, the area would be transformed into a liveable urban centre.
Speaking to journalists on Friday before commencing his second day of election campaigning in front of Suritola School, Ishraque stated that residents are eagerly waiting to exercise their right to vote on 12 February.
He noted that his campaign is actively encouraging citizens to visit polling centres to elect their representatives.
Highlighting the severe local grievances, Ishraque pointed out that the gas shortage has reached a critical level and that roads are in a state of ruin. He further noted that open drainage systems and stagnant, sewage-like water are pervasive across the region.
Beyond local development, he promised that if the BNP returns to power through the people’s mandate, there will be fair trials for all past genocides, enforced disappearances, and murders.
Regarding economic and social reforms, the candidate referred to the BNP’s 31-point charter. He detailed plans to generate employment within a year and provide facilities for small and medium-sized entrepreneurs (SMEs) to create further jobs.
On women’s empowerment, Ishraque highlighted initiatives such as “Family Cards,” ensuring economic self-reliance, and making public transport and other sectors safer and more comfortable for women.
In response to a statement from an opposing candidate claiming they would not yield a single seat in Dhaka, Ishraque described such remarks as “unfortunate” and “laughable”. He suggested such comments are merely intended to boost the morale of their own activists.
“We are campaigning for the ‘Yes’ vote for everyone,” he said, adding that the BNP’s position was earned through years of struggle rather than sudden emergence. He remarked that while BNP activists have shed blood over the last 17 years, certain “hidden forces” only appeared after 5 August 2024.
He criticised these groups for their past conduct, noting they previously only held processions under the cover of darkness at 6am when the streets were empty.
