BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman remarked that the upcoming national parliamentary election is extremely important for every citizen of the country, adding that everyone must remain vigilant and alert to prevent fascism, extremism, and radicalism from gaining ground in this country.
Particularly, the mothers and sisters of Bangladesh—the women of society—must play their role with great caution and awareness, he said.
Tarique Rahman made these comments as the chief guest in a virtual address at a discussion titled “Women’s Contribution to the Anti-Fascist Movement”, organised by the Jatiyabadi Mahila Dal on the anniversary of the July-August mass uprising. The event was held at the Bangladesh Medical University auditorium on Thursday.
He said that the upcoming election is crucial to build the country as envisioned by a mother’s eyes. “To create a safe, democratic, and humane Bangladesh for all, we must remain united,” he added.
Addressing the pro-democracy citizens of the country once again, he urged, “We must unite to establish a just, democratic, and safe Bangladesh – as envisioned by the martyrs – for all, regardless of gender, age, or religion, to honour their sacrifices.”
Tarique Rahman further stated that women have played a significant role in the anti-fascist movement, and that no nation can progress by keeping women outside development plans.
“However, in the context of Bangladesh, women still lag behind in economic self-sufficiency,” he said. “The BNP has several plans to empower women economically. Particularly, educating women and making them economically self-reliant can help prevent domestic violence.”
He also mentioned that if the BNP gets the opportunity to govern, it will provide family cards to at least 50 lakh marginalised families in the first phase.
At the beginning of the event, Afroza Abbas, the president of Jatiyabadi Mahila Dal, delivered a speech. A documentary on women’s contributions to the anti-fascist movement was screened, and the organising committee later honored the family members of martyrs with commemorative medals.