Local BNP leaders and activists in Rangpur are making extensive preparations to welcome party Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, aiming to make the programme a historic political event.

Ahead of his visit on January 12, BNP-nominated candidates from 33 constituencies of the Rangpur division held a closed-door meeting at the Rangpur Chamber Building on Wednesday to finalise preparations for the tour.

BNP Organising Secretary Asadul Habib Dulu said party leaders and activists have been instructed to observe Tarique Rahman’s visit in a historic manner.

“We are eagerly waiting to welcome our beloved leader,” he added.

Rangpur Metropolitan BNP Convener and Rangpur-3 constituency candidate Shamsuzzaman Samu said all necessary preparations are underway to receive the party’s acting chairman.

“We are making preparations in strict compliance with the election code of conduct,” he said.

The announcement of Tarique Rahman’s visit has generated enthusiasm among BNP leaders and activists across the northern region.

During his four-day visit, beginning on January 11, the BNP Acting Chairman will visit the graves of Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani, Shaheed Abu Sayeed, late Taiyaba Majumder, and others who lost their lives during the July movement and the long democratic movement.

He is also scheduled to attend prayer gatherings and meet injured July movement activists and family members of martyrs.

BNP sources said the district administrations and returning officers of the concerned districts have been formally informed about the tour.