The May Day rally organised by the Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal, the labour wing of the BNP, began at Nayapaltan in the capital on Friday afternoon, drawing a large gathering of workers and party supporters despite persistent rain and waterlogged streets across Dhaka.
The programme started around 2:30pm in front of the BNP central office. BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman is scheduled to address the rally, with Sramik Dal President Anwar Hossain presiding over the event.
Senior BNP leaders, including Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, members of the party’s standing committee and labour leaders are also expected to speak at the gathering.
Despite overnight rainfall that left several roads submerged, crowds began assembling from the morning hours. Supporters from different parts of the capital and surrounding districts converged at Nayapaltan, creating a festive atmosphere with slogans, drums and processions.
A large stage has been set up in front of the party headquarters, decorated with portraits of BNP founder Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, former Chairperson Khaleda Zia and current Chairman Tarique Rahman on both sides.
Organisers said more than 150 loudspeakers were installed across Fakirerpool, Paltan and Kakrail to facilitate the programme.
Participants, many wearing red caps and T-shirts and carrying banners, continued to join the rally throughout the day. The area remained highly animated with chanting and organised processions.
According to Sramik Dal sources, vehicular movement from Fakirerpool to Kakrail has been restricted, with traffic diverted through alternative routes. Special arrangements have been made to ensure uninterrupted access for emergency services, including ambulances.
Free medical camps and mobile toilet facilities have also been arranged for attendees.
Party sources said this is the first major political programme of the BNP in the capital since forming government following what they described as a landslide victory in the 13th parliamentary election.
Participants from nearby districts including Narayanganj, Gazipur, Manikganj and Narsingdi also joined the rally.
May Day, observed globally on 1 May, commemorates the sacrifice of workers in Chicago in 1886 who demanded fair wages, dignity in labour and an eight-hour workday.
The day is widely recognised in Bangladesh and around the world as a symbol of workers’ rights and solidarity.
