Upholding the traditions of his parents, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairman Tarique Rahman officially launched his national campaign for the upcoming 13th National Parliament Election 2026 and the Referendum in Sylhet on Thursday.
This marks the beginning of the party's campaign for the election, which commenced nationwide on January 22.
Party activists and people from various walks of life have begun to gather at the ground ahead of the rally.
Tarique Rahman arrived in Sylhet on Wednesday evening, landing at Osmani International Airport on a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight at around 8 pm.
Following the path of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman and former chairperson Khaleda Zia, Tarique Rahman arrived in Sylhet on Wednesday evening to offer prayers at the shrines of Hazrat Shahjalal (R) and Hazrat Shah Paran (R) before heading to the first major rally.
The event, held at the Alia Madrasa ground, carries significant emotional weight for supporters as it was a frequent site for historic rallies led by the late Khaleda Zia.
Organized by the Sylhet and Sunamganj units of the BNP, the venue was quickly transformed into a "sea of people" by 10 am.
Thousands of activists and citizens gathered to hear Tarique Rahman speak as the chief guest, viewing his leadership as a continuation of his mother's legacy and his father's political vision.
Addressing the gathering, Tarique Rahman said, “Just as Dr Zubaida is your child, I am also your child. I hope the BNP will be victorious in this area in the election. I take your word with me.”
Preparations for the grand rally have been completed, with a 30-foot area in front of the venue barricaded using bamboo poles.
A separate section has been reserved in the northern part of the barricaded area for the families of martyrs and those injured in the July incidents.
BNP Organising Secretary G K Gaus further said the rally will also formally introduce party- and alliance-nominated candidates for six constituencies in Sylhet and five in Sunamganj, as well as candidates from 19 constituencies across the Sylhet division.
Police Prohibit Private Drones at BNP’s Rally
The Sylhet Metropolitan Police (SMP) officially prohibited the use of drones over the Alia Madrasa ground during the BNP’s election rally, citing security priorities.
This restriction applies to all individuals and private organizations, with the exception of law enforcement agencies. Deputy Commissioner of SMP, Saiful Islam, confirmed the ban and warned that any unauthorized drone operation would result in immediate legal action.
The security measures are in place as BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman is scheduled to address the large gathering as the chief guest to kick off the campaign for the 13th national parliamentary election.
