Tarique Rahman Calls for Fair Elections at the Earliest

JASHORE, Feb 22, 2025 (BSS) – BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman reiterated his demand for holding a fair national election as soon as possible, stressing that the primary responsibility of the interim government is to ensure a free and fair electoral process.

"The key task of the interim government is to conduct a fair election. We hope they will do so as quickly as possible," he stated while virtually addressing the Jashore District BNP Conference as the chief guest.

The conference's inaugural session began this morning at the central Eidgah in Jashore.

Tarique Rahman emphasized that if BNP comes to power, its first priority will be to rebuild the country and restore the state structure. He said, "Our immediate goal is to rebuild and strengthen the party, and implement the 31-point reform agenda at the grassroots level."

He also criticized the autocratic government, accusing it of destroying the country's institutions. He recalled that despite the prolonged dictatorial rule, BNP introduced a 31-point proposal to address the nation's issues.

Tarique Rahman highlighted that there are false cases against 6 million BNP leaders and activists, including many councilors attending the conference. Despite these challenges, he emphasized that BNP and other democratic parties have continued their struggle for the people, even in the streets.

The BNP Acting Chairman also noted the sacrifices made by numerous leaders and activists, stating, "Many have given their lives for the cause."

He further explained that whenever BNP has had the opportunity to govern, it has worked toward solving the nation's problems. "Although all plans couldn't be fully implemented due to limitations, if we regain the people's support, we will focus on increasing production, strengthening the education system, empowering women, and improving healthcare, so that citizens no longer need to go abroad for medical treatment," Tarique Rahman said.

Addressing recent criticisms of BNP leaders and activists, Tarique clarified, "BNP follows a policy of not engaging in actions that lack popular support. Yet, some individuals among the millions of our leaders and activists may engage in morally unacceptable actions. We take strict action against such conduct. BNP is the only party that takes firm action against wrongdoings within its ranks."

To critics, he added, "Do not mislead the people. BNP has always been clear about its stance on justice."

The conference was inaugurated by BNP Chairperson’s Advisor, Amanullah Aman, who hoisted the party flag and released pigeons and balloons to mark the occasion. He expressed hope that the national elections would be held soon.

Amanullah Aman reiterated that BNP stands with the people during crises, which is why the public continues to support the party.

The inaugural session was presided over by Professor Nargis Begum, outgoing district BNP convener, who expressed her reluctance to contest the presidency despite an election being scheduled. "New leadership will emerge, and under their leadership, the party will grow stronger. I have always been, and will continue to be, with BNP during its tough times," she said in her farewell speech.

Several central and district-level leaders, including Anindya Islam Amit, Jayanta Kumar Kundu, Amlendu Das Apu, and Mofiqul Hasan Tripti, also spoke during the ceremony.

Anindya Islam Amit called for a continued fight to restore democracy and urged everyone to unite for fair elections.

During the inaugural session, Tarique Rahman distributed aid to the families of over 100 martyrs from the anti-dictatorship movement in Jashore. The leaders of various upazila committees accepted these items on behalf of the martyred families.

The leadership election was held during the second session of the conference at the Alamgir Siddiqui Hall in Jashore, with voting for the posts of president and organizing secretary. Three candidates contested for president, and four candidates ran for three organizing secretary positions. A five-member committee oversaw the election.

The election management committee confirmed that the results will be announced later tonight.