BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has acknowledged the challenges of the upcoming election, emphasizing the critical need for the BNP to avoid mistakes. He expressed confidence in the people's ability to assert their power, as demonstrated on August 5, and stressed that standing by the people is indispensable.
Speaking as the chief guest at a virtual discussion on Sunday (January 19) to commemorate the 89th birth anniversary of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, Tarique Rahman addressed the gathering at the Engineers Institute in the capital.
He stated, "When the people are angry, no autocracy can endure—no one can. Ultimately, it is the people who prevail."
He added, "Political activists should aspire to develop themselves in the way Ziaur Rahman presented himself to the people."
The acting BNP chairman stated that establishing voting rights is essential to building a democratic country, where all citizens will enjoy every benefit and security. Everyone must remain united on one front, ensuring lawful elections at specified intervals. People's rights can only be established if accountability is ensured.
He further said, "If others form the government, it will not be good for the country or the nation. Therefore, it is crucial to stand by the people. Develop yourself as a political activist in the way the people desire."
Tarique Rahman remarked that after August 5, many people started rallying, but their prior oppression before that date should not be forgotten. To uphold the ideals of Ziaur Rahman, vigilance is necessary.
He concluded by saying that the BNP has not fought to provide opportunities for those who have been oppressed in the past. They should not be allowed to get close.
