Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has issued a firm warning to BNP leaders, stating that mob terrorism, extortion, land grabbing, or any misuse of influence under the party’s banner will not be tolerated.
He stressed that, to maintain public trust, political workers must act responsibly, lawfully, and with discipline. Tarique, who also leads BNP, made it clear that actions acceptable in opposition cannot be carried over into government, and strict measures will be taken against any wrongdoing.
He cautioned against overzealous individuals attempting to create problems for the government, reminding everyone that government work must not merge with party activities.
Tarique also emphasised that the active participation of party workers is crucial for implementing the government’s election manifesto. He referred to the ongoing battle as not only about holding office but fulfilling the promises made to the people.
The meeting took place at the Krishibid Institute Auditorium in Farmgate, Dhaka, on Saturday, 9 May. It was the first major gathering with grassroots leaders following the 13th parliamentary elections in February. The meeting was marked by enthusiastic participation, with BNP leaders and workers filling the area and energising the event with party slogans.
Top BNP leaders, including Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, spoke at the event. The meeting was presided over by BNP Senior Joint Secretary Ruhul Kabir Rizvi Ahmed.
Key youth leaders, including Jubo Dal President Abdul Monayem Munna, General Secretary Mohammad Nurul Islam Nayen, Swechchhasebak Dal President SM Zilani, General Secretary Rajib Ahsan, and Chhatra Dal President Rakibul Islam Rakib, General Secretary Nasir Uddin Nasir, also addressed the gathering.
Tarique highlighted that the government’s key responsibility is to deliver good governance and meet public expectations. He assured that the government’s goals include providing better educational environments for students and ensuring citizens’ safety and comfort.
Despite the hardships BNP leaders and workers faced under the previous regime, Rahman emphasised the importance of maintaining a democratic environment with freedom of expression and open debate.
He reiterated that the promises made before the election have now become the manifesto of the people of Bangladesh, a manifesto that 52% of voters supported. He called for full commitment to these promises, ensuring that the government works with transparency and responsibility.
He stated that this is BNP’s government, formed by the people’s trust, and upholding that trust is a crucial responsibility. He appealed to grassroots workers to unite, as the success of the government largely depends on their involvement.
Mirza Fakhrul emphasised that party members must be accountable in meeting the people’s expectations. He noted that gaining power is just the beginning of more responsibilities. The party’s top priority is addressing people’s problems and ensuring the success of development efforts.
Standing Committee member Khondokar Mosharraf Hossain stressed the need to strengthen the connection between grassroots and central leadership.
Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury called for the party to stay active in economic planning and development. He emphasised the need to involve local leaders to ensure the public directly benefits from development activities.
Salahuddin Ahmed, another Standing Committee member, called for political tolerance and the preservation of freedom of speech and democratic practices.
Leaders in the meeting acknowledged that the delay in forming new committees has created confusion at various levels. There was a strong focus on reorganising expired committees quickly, bridging the gap between grassroots and central leadership, and addressing organisational weaknesses.
The emphasis was also on recognising and developing young leaders, fostering new leadership, and making affiliated organisations more effective. Large-scale restructuring and changes are expected through upcoming party councils.
