BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman has emphasized the need for political parties in Bangladesh to remain united in the national interest, even when ideological differences exist.
Speaking virtually from London on Wednesday afternoon, Tarique addressed a rally held in front of the BNP’s central office in Nayapaltan, Dhaka, marking the first anniversary of the July uprising.
“There will always be disagreements among political parties over various issues. But we must engage in dialogue to resolve them. Political leaders should not turn away from each other, especially when it comes to national matters and upholding democracy,” he said.
Tarique stressed that unity is essential for the nation, adding, “Religions, beliefs, and ideologies may differ, but the state belongs to all of us.”
Referring to the BNP’s 31-point outline for reforms and political governance, he said the party has already shared its roadmap with the public. “We seek people’s support and cooperation to implement these policies for the welfare of the country.”
He also criticized the past governance under what he described as a fascist regime, saying, “Regardless of political affiliation, no one was safe under authoritarian rule. Our children were unsafe. Our voting rights were stolen. Our democratic freedoms were crushed, and the entire nation was turned into a brutal prison for democracy-loving citizens.”
Highlighting the importance of democracy and the rule of law, Tarique added, “Without democracy and legal safeguards, no one—regardless of gender, religion, or social status—is safe. These must be ensured through proper implementation and practice of the rights earned through the blood of thousands of martyrs.”
Tarique Rahman also welcomed the recent announcement of an election timeline and the July Declaration issued by the interim government, calling it a positive step toward restoring democracy.
The rally was also addressed by several senior BNP leaders, including Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Standing Committee members Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain, Mirza Abbas, and Salahuddin Ahmed, along with Dhaka North BNP convener Aminul Haque and Dhaka South BNP convener Rafiqul Alam. The event was presided over by senior joint secretary general Ruhul Kabir Rizvi.
According to BNP officials, the victory procession began at the party’s Nayapaltan office and passed through Bijoynagar, Purana Paltan, National Press Club, and Matsya Bhaban, concluding at Shahbagh. Thousands of BNP activists from across Dhaka and surrounding districts joined the event, making it one of the largest political demonstrations in the capital in recent months.
