Tarique Rahman: Government officials become uneasy when elections are mentioned

BNP’s acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, has claimed that certain members of the government become uneasy whenever the issue of elections is raised. 

Speaking virtually from London at the conclusion of a 48-hour protest to save the Teesta River on Tuesday afternoon, Rahman said, "This nervousness will only benefit former dictators and their supporters."

The protest, held under the banner of the "Teesta River Protection Movement Committee," saw thousands of people gather at various points along the Teesta River, including Lalmonirhat near the Teesta Rail Bridge and Road Bridge. 

On the final day of the event, Rahman addressed participants remotely, stressing the importance of Bangladesh’s fair share of water from India, something he accused the current government of failing to secure for the past 15 years.

Criticizing Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s foreign policy as submissive, he said, "Instead of protecting our national interests, she has turned herself into a servant of India." 

Rahman went on to promise that if the BNP were to come to power, they would implement the Teesta Master Plan to address the issue.

Rahman also took aim at the conflicting messages being delivered by government advisers on the subject of elections. 

He said these mixed signals were creating opportunities for "fascists" to cause chaos and instability.

He emphasized that should India continue to deny Bangladesh its rightful share of water and fail to sign the Teesta agreement, the BNP would raise the issue at international forums, including the United Nations. 

He also recommended reopening diplomatic talks with India to ensure Bangladesh’s water rights are secured.

Rahman concluded by expressing his confidence in the ability of the BNP to protect the nation’s interests, stating that their plans go beyond elections and reforms, focusing on long-term goals for the betterment of the country.

This speech from the BNP leader comes amid growing concerns about water sharing between Bangladesh and India, as well as rising tensions over the upcoming national elections.