BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Monday cautioned party leaders and activists about a possible plot to disrupt the February-12 election, urging them to stay vigilant to prevent any manipulation of the results.
“Over the past 15 to 16 years, many of you could not exercise your right to vote. People’s voting rights and freedom of speech were taken away. Those who did this have now left the country. But another quarter is again plotting to create obstacles to the election,” he said.
Tarique made the remarks while virtually addressing an election rally in Hatiya of Noakhali, seeking votes for BNP candidate Mahbubur Rahman Shamim in the Noakhali-6 constituency.
As a precaution to stop vote rigging, the BNP leader said, Muslims should perform Tahajjud prayers and then go to their respective polling stations early on February 12 and offer Fajr prayers there in congregation.
Later, he said Muslims, along with people of other religions, should stand in line early in the morning so that everyone can cast their votes properly.
“Casting your vote alone is not enough. You must stay at the polling station to make sure your vote is counted properly. I hope you will be able to do this, Inshallah,” the BNP leader said.
Tarique called for unity among all communities, regardless of caste, creed or religion, to work for the betterment of the country.
“Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, Christians and people of other faiths — we must all work together to build this country. We must work hard to rebuild Bangladesh. This country is our first and last home,” he said.
Tarique also expressed hope to meet his supporters in person in the near future. “Due to time constraints, I could not be with you today. But Inshallah, I will meet you in the coming days. Together, we will discuss how to build our country,” he said.
He pledged a series of development initiatives for Hatiya and urged voters to ensure victory for the BNP’s election symbol, the Sheaf of Paddy, in the upcoming election.
Tarique said local people had seen many leaders in the past, but their problems were not solved. “To solve these problems, the victory of the Sheaf of Paddy is essential,” he said.
He outlined BNP’s plans if elected, including measures to prevent river erosion by building block dams and embankments, providing permanent land settlement for the landless, and upgrading Upazila health complexes to 150 beds.
The BNP chief also mentioned plans to develop Jajamara Union into a new Upazila and to turn Nijhum Island into a modern tourist destination.
“The people here face many serious problems. There is a shortage of safe drinking water. Health services are poor. Schools and colleges are inadequate. Agriculture faces difficulties, jobs are scarce, and women suffer from economic hardship. These problems can be solved if BNP comes to power,” Tarique said.
He said BNP plans to introduce a family card to economically empower women and a farmer card to supply fertiliser, seeds and pesticides. “Vocational institutes will be set up to train youths and the unemployed. Loans will also be provided to help them start businesses or find jobs abroad.”
Highlighting the urgent needs of the people, Tarique said river erosion has left many residents of the area destitute. “I know your problems, and we have noted all local demands, including block dams, embankments and land for the landless. Inshallah, once BNP forms the government, these issues will be addressed step by step.”
He called on voters to play their role in realising their demands. “Your responsibility is to ensure the victory of the Sheaf of Paddy on February 12. Only then can we begin solving your problems,” Tarique said.