Tarique Rahman: Holding local elections before national polls would reinforce Dictatorship

In a recent virtual address from London, Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), criticized the idea of holding local elections before the national elections. 

He argued that it would serve as a rehabilitation process for those aligned with dictatorship, and stressed that BNP would not participate in such a strategy.

Tarique spoke at the party’s extended meeting on Thursday afternoon, which had begun earlier that day at 11 a.m. at the LD Hall of the National Parliament House. 

BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia was also expected to join the meeting virtually from London.

Tarique Rahman expressed his frustration with certain advisers‍‍` statements concerning the upcoming elections. 

He remarked that if local elections were held before the national elections, it would only benefit the supporters of dictatorship, and BNP would not fall into this trap. 

He called for the party to shift focus away from local government elections and urged for the immediate announcement of a roadmap for the national elections.

During his speech, Tarique also welcomed the formation of a new political party, which is expected to be announced the following day.

Tarique Rahman also pointed out that some groups are actively trying to disrupt national unity and prevent the elections from taking place.

He urged everyone to set aside their differences and stand united during these critical times.