Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairman Tarique Rahman on Monday criticized political rivals for relying on "big speeches" without substantive development plans, asserting that governing a nation requires concrete programs, experience and accountability rather than mere rhetoric.

Addressing an election rally on Pir Jangi Mazar Road in support of the Dhaka-8 constituency, Tarique Rahman challenged the credibility of other contenders.

“Many people can stand on the stage and make big speeches. Many speak beautifully just to receive applause. But running a country is not such an easy task,” he said.

He questioned the absence of clear agendas from opposing parties, asking, “Where are their plans? They only have big words. Governing needs programmes—where are their programmes?”

The BNP chief argued that the ‘Sheaf of Paddy’ is the only symbol capable of reining in corruption and changing the fate of the people.

Highlighting the party’s economic vision, he pledged to create employment for 10 million people within five years if elected.

His plan includes encouraging local and foreign investment, establishing vocational and IT training institutes, and recruiting 100,000 health workers to expand the national healthcare network.

During a separate rally at the Kalabagan Krira Chakra ground for the Dhaka-10 seat, Tarique Rahman issued a stern warning against electoral fraud.

He alleged that activists from a "particular group" had been caught producing fake ballot seals and urged pro-democracy voters to remain vigilant.

“If anyone asks for your bKash number, NID number or any other personal information, you must understand that there is a conspiracy behind it,” he cautioned, framing the February 12 vote as a hard-earned right secured through the sacrifices of martyrs over the last 16 years.

In his own constituency, Dhaka-17, Tarique Rahman promised to build a "Safe Bangladesh" where citizens can move freely without fear.

Meanwhile, BNP Standing Committee member and Dhaka-8 candidate Mirza Abbas echoed concerns of "vote engineering," alleging that certain quarters are conspiring to manipulate the results.

Mirza Abbas called on activists to guard polling stations to protect the sanctity of the election.

Tarique Rahman’s marathon final day of campaigning included a total of eight rallies across Dhaka, signaling the party’s final push before the 48-hour silence period begins tomorrow morning.