BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman has stated that the people of Bangladesh no longer want division and conflict, emphasising that after 54 years of independence, citizens now demand qualitative changes in the country’s politics.
Speaking virtually from London at a central rally organised by the Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) in Shahbag, Dhaka, on Sunday afternoon to mark the anniversary of the July mass uprising, Rahman asserted, “Bangladesh is now a mature nation. Political parties must be accountable to the people. Citizens want substantive political transformation – not empty rhetoric, but politics focused on improving lives.”
He stressed that the youth must play the most significant role in driving this political shift.
Addressing JCD activists, he declared, “No one can stop an organisation with courageous patriots like you. Even the brutal repression of the fugitive, defeated autocrats couldn’t suppress Chhatra Dal.”
“Remember,” he continued, “if you move forward with courage and integrity, Bangladesh’s pro-democracy masses will stand with you. The people are the source of all of BNP’s political power.”
Rahman urged students to contribute to nation-building: “Personal development isn’t enough – you must build Bangladesh alongside yourselves.”
He outlined BNP’s vision to transform the population into human resources, advising students to excel in their respective fields. “Not every student must join political organisations, but each must strive for excellence in their domain. True leadership isn’t just about political positions – it’s needed in industry, literature, education, agriculture, and business, all vital for national progress,” Rahman emphasised.
The rally, beginning at 2pm, caused significant traffic disruptions as roads around Shahbag, Kattabon, Intercontinental intersection, and the Fisheries Building were blocked, though ambulances were permitted passage.
JCD activists, wearing flag headbands, chanted slogans like “Tarique Rahman is coming” and “We haven’t left the streets,” reflecting their continued mobilisation.