BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman has called for unity, peaceful coexistence and renewed efforts to rebuild democracy in Bangladesh, as he extended greetings on the occasion of New Year.
In a message issued on Wednesday, Tarique wished peace, happiness, welfare and prosperity for people at home and abroad.
He said the New Year carries new messages drawn from the experiences of the past year and symbolises the erasure of old grievances while ushering in fresh hope, joy and prosperity.
Describing 1 January as an international festival, he said the New Year has expanded its scope globally while allowing different nations to preserve their own cultural traditions.
Tarique Rahman said the New Year is not merely a celebration, but a reflection of culture, heritage and collective consciousness.
He said the occasion inspires renewed commitment to building a beautiful and prosperous Bangladesh, where every citizen matters and every voice remains free.
Referring to the previous year, he said memories of achievements and successes coexist with bitter experiences and the pain of losing loved ones.
Tarique said the New Year should strengthen the pledge to establish an accountable government through a free and fair election, ensure political and economic empowerment of the people, and work collectively to restore democracy.
He said anti-democratic and defeated forces had long held people’s rights hostage, and stressed that efforts must now resume to establish multi-party democracy through united action by all democratic forces.
The BNP acting chairman said the New Year awakens new energy, hope and possibilities in people’s lives and expressed hope that Bangladesh would move forward on a path of immense potential. He called for the permanent end of injustice, oppression and repression.
Noting that the English New Year has become an integral part of everyday life worldwide, he said colourful celebrations are held globally to welcome the occasion.
On this day, he urged the people to work together to overcome social and political obstacles and advance the nation through a tradition of struggle.
In his message, Tarique Rahman emphasised love, tolerance, peace and harmony over destruction and revenge, and called for the construction of a democratic Bangladesh based on human rights and social justice.
He concluded his message with prayers for the country and the people.
