United News of Bangladesh

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Thursday said his party’s leaders and activists are firmly committed to restoring democracy and voting rights in Bangladesh at any cost in a bid to ensure people’s political empowerment. “Just as we have pledged to implement the 31-point reform proposal, similarly, the BNP and each of its leaders and activists are committed to establishing democracy and people’s voting rights in Bangladesh at any cost,” he said while virtually addressing three workshops. Tarique urges political parties to prioritise public issues alongside reforms By establishing democracy and safeguarding voting rights in the country, Tarique said the economic freedom of people must be ensured. “Normally, children are not killed unless a country is at war, but during the July-August movement, around a hundred children in this country were indiscriminately killed by the fugitive dictator. These innocent children gave their lives for the cause of democracy,” he said. BNP’s Training Affairs Committee organised workshops titled ‘31-Point State Structure Reform Proposal and Public Engagement’ in the districts of Dinajpur, Thakurgaon and Panchagarh with the participation of 2,300 party grassroots leaders and workers. Stay united against autocracy to restore democracy: Tarique BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir also participated in the workshops, addressing them virtually. Tarique said the political and voting rights of people have been stripped off over the past 15 years under the rule of the Awami League. “As a result, the country’s judicial, economic, health and education systems have collapsed. Various forms of social degradation have begun, and lawlessness has taken root. This has affected every sector of society. It’s like a diabetic patient—if the disease is not controlled, it gradually damages every organ of the body,” he said. The BNP leader said his party leaders and activists took to the streets over 15 years in the struggle to restore democracy. “Many of our leaders and activists were forcibly disappeared, many were killed, and others were crippled during the movement. Their sacrifices must not be allowed to go in vain.” He urged BNP leaders and workers to take the 31-point reform proposal to every household in towns, villages, and even remote areas of the country, so that people understand the BNP’s vision for their welfare. “We’re committed to implementing the 31-point reform proposal if we are given the opportunity.” Tarique noted that while many people are now speaking of reform, it was the BNP that first raised the issue long ago, defying the authoritarian regime of Sheikh Hasina. “There is a difference between what you want, what the people want, and what a certain quarter wants. That quarter has its own agenda,” the BNP leader viewed. As a political party trusted by people from all walks of life, Tarique said the BNP wants to convey a clear message that it will pursue reform by incorporating the diverse demands of people from different classes and professions. “There may be differences in priorities among people from various sectors, but we want to move the country forward in a united manner. It is natural to have differing views in a democracy,” he said. Tarique also said BNP will engage in dialogue with all stakeholders to resolve issues and guide the nation forward together. “But under no circumstances should the people’s right to vote, their political rights, or the democratic transition be obstructed…if people’s democratic or political rights are destroyed, everything will be destroyed and everything will be hindered.” He said the BNP has earned the trust of people through long struggles, the sacrifices of many lives of party leaders and activists, as well as the suffering and torture they have endured. Tarique claimed that the BNP was responsible for 70 percent of the total good work carried out in the country since its inception. “That’s why people have confidence in us, and we must uphold it,” he added. Addressing the programme, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said the state structure of Bangladesh collapsed under Sheikh Hasina’s rule due to widespread misgovernance. “A fascist system then emerged as all the institutions were systematically destroyed,” he said. To address such a situation, he said BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia first introduced Vision-2030 in 2016 to reform the state structure and restore democratic institutions. Subsequently, Fakhrul said, the BNP Acting Chairman, in consultation with other like-minded parties, presented the 31-point reform proposals. “The 31-point is our charter of emancipation.” He urged BNP leaders and activists to take the 31-point proposals to people at all levels and to work towards their implementation for the welfare of the country and the strengthening of all institutions. Prior to the workshops, Tarique responded to various questions from participants. In response to a question, he said if the BNP is voted to power, the party will establish specialised cold storages across the country to preserve agricultural outputs with an aim to ensure fair prices for farmers and control unusual price hikes. He also said stern action would be taken against individuals involved in extortion, which contributes to the rise in commodity prices. Tarique also highlighted the BNP’s plans to tackle challenges in the agriculture, health, education, environment, communication, and financial sectors, to promote economic development and ensure public welfare.  

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Wednesday said his party does not want to take revenge on their oppressors through retaliation, but wants to implement its 31-point reform proposal, aimed at serving the interests of people. “For the past 15–16 years since 1/11, you all endured unspeakable torture and abuse. You were subjected to false cases, and you were oppressed by the police or by runaway autocrats and their cohorts… We do not want to take that revenge through oppression. We do not want to do what they did,” he said while virtually addressing four workshops. The BNP leader said the implementation of the party’s 31-point reform proposal would serve as the means of reprisal against those who oppressed BNP leaders and activists. “We want to take revenge for the torture and oppression that you endured in the past through the implementation of the 31-point,” he said. By implementing the 31-point in the interest of the country and its people, Tarique said, “I want to take revenge for the torture and oppression that was inflicted on me, the imprisonment that I served, the oppression and imprisonment that was inflicted on my mother, and the way my brother was killed, through the implementation of the 31 points.” The BNP Training Affairs Committee arranged the workshops titled ‘31-Point State Structure Reform Proposal and Public Engagement’ in Rangpur City, Rangpur and Nilphamari districts, and Saidpur upazila. Tarique urges BNP to strengthen unity as 'invisible enemies' become visible Tarique called upon his party colleagues to take the party’s 31-point proposals to the doorsteps of people across the country, regardless of their political affiliation or opinion, and to mobilise public support in favour of the reform agenda. “Throughout the day, we discussed issues relating to the interests of the country and its people in the workshops. We must implement the 31-point if we want to execute the plans and protect the interests of the people,” he said. The BNP leader said the people and their support are the main political capital for any political party. “When we see our processions growing and an overwhelming turnout at our rallies, it brings us joy… As political activists, we always strive for public support and higher votes for our candidates.” Tarique Rahman mourns Pope Francis’ death Stating that evil campaigns are being carried out on social media and in the mainstream media to tarnish BNP’s image, Tarique said he warned the party’s rank and file about it seven to eight months ago. “Our unseen opponents are becoming visible, and others are joining them. So, the more effectively we communicate our agenda and goals for the country to the people and gain their support, the stronger we will be in confronting both visible and invisible opponents. We all share the responsibility to make this happen,” he said. Tarique highlighted the contributions of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman and Chairperson Khaleda Zia during their tenures, noting their focus on developing the education, health, communication, transportation, and agriculture sectors, as well as creating employment opportunities and boosting agricultural production. He said the core objective of BNP’s politics is to ensure the welfare of the country and its people. Tarique urged party leaders and workers to remain united and work collectively to strengthen the BNP and counter any conspiracies, following the ideals of Ziaur Rahman and Khaleda Zia. He said the people of the country believe BNP can deliver positive outcomes, as they continue to place their trust in the party. “We all have the responsibility to uphold that trust, and unity is essential to do so,” he said. Before addressing the workshops, Tarique responded to various questions from participants. He also outlined BNP’s plans to tackle challenges in agriculture, health, education, communication, and the financial sector, aiming to promote economic development and ensure public welfare.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Tuesday expressed the hope that the interim government would uphold impartiality as desired by people. “We hope that the interim government will maintain the impartiality that people expect from it,” he said this while addressing the biannual council of Cumilla city BNP unit through a virtual platform. Noting that instability is being seen in some places of the country, Tarique said now various questions have emerged among people over different matters of the interim government. Since the formation of this government, he said, the BNP has been supporting this government as it wants it to be successful. Tarique Rahman said the people of Bangladesh believe that this interim government would do whatever necessary to protect their political and other rights through a fair and impartial election, which had been snatched by the fugitive dictator many years ago in the dark of night. But for the past few days, the BNP leader said, it has unfortunately been observed that different persons within the government are making different remarks about restoring the rights of people (voting rights). “As a result, various kinds of unrest are being created in different parts of the country. We do not want instability in Bangladesh,” he said. Tarique went on to say, “Various kinds of instability are being created by the statements of some persons within the interim government. We are seeing the instability in the economy, different classes of society and the administration.” Run your govt with a strong hand: Fakhrul to Dr Yunus The BNP acting chairman reiterated his party’s support towards this interim government for the sake of smooth journey of democracy in the country. “We want to cooperate with this government because we think the more smoothly and beautifully this government can hold a neutral election, the smoother the democratic journey will be for this country and its people in the coming days.” Noting that BNP firmly believes in democracy, he said the differences -- whether within the party or with other parties-- should be resolved through negotiations.   “We do not want to let these differences turn into divisions. If any division is created among us, the country, its people, democratic political parties, democratic political activists and the people who believe in democracy will be the most affected,” he said. Tarique said as a political party, their one of the prime goals and objectives is to ask people to vote and participate in the elections and demand elections.  “BNP is a political party. Since we believe in the rule of people and the power of people, democracy and vote-oriented politics, we naturally would demand the vote or election in the country and ask people to vote. It is a normal matter,” he said. BNP Vice Chairman Barkatullah Bulu, its Relief and Rehabilitation Affairs Secretary Amin-ur-Rashid Yasin and Cumilla south district BNP convener Zakaria Taher Suman, among others, spoke at the council presided over by Cumilla city BNP Convener Utbatul Bari Abu.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Saturday said unity among the democratic forces is crucial to protect Bangladesh and its people from conspirators. "If we want to protect the people of the country and, above all, safeguard Bangladesh, we must all remain united at any cost," he said while virtually addressing the council of the Jashore district unit BNP at Central Eidgah Maidan.  The BNP leader warned that autocratic forces are attempting to resurface and that conspirators are not sitting idle. "They are continuing their plans under various pretexts, but we cannot allow them to succeed.” Fakhrul urges democratic forces to build livable Bangladesh "There may be differences of opinion among us. We’ll sit together and discuss. If one discussion is not enough, we will sit again. Through discussions, we’ll find solutions to our problems," he said. He highlighted the BNP’s commitment to rebuilding the country, stating that the party had presented a 31-point outline for the reform of the state structure, which includes plans for education, employment, healthcare, and agriculture. Tarique said the main goal of his party is to restore the collapsed state structure to rebuild the country. “Many people are talking about reforms now, but in the past, they were nowhere to be seen on the streets. Only BNP has faced the bloodshed of dictatorship, discussed reforms, and announced a 31-point plan,” he said. People will resist if fascism emerges again:Rizvi The BNP leader also said if the BNP returns to power with the people’s votes, its first priority will be to rebuild the country. Tarique accused Sheikh Hasina of resorting to killings and enforced disappearances to stay in power. He said during Hasina's long autocratic rule, BNP and some other political parties protested on the streets, enduring repression and suppression. Tarique observed that those who now speak ‘big talks’ were absent during the anti-dictatorship movement at that time. He also mentioned that action had already been taken against leaders and activists of his party involved in unlawful activities. “So, the people of the country cannot be misled by the carrying out propaganda against BNP.” Tarique emphasised the importance of holding a credible and transparent national election as soon as possible to rebuild the country in line with the people's hopes and aspirations.      

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has called on the nation to embrace the principles of equality, dignity and justice as Bangladesh prepares to embark on a transformative journey in the New Year, 2025. "As we step into a transformative chapter for Bangladesh in the New Year, let’s continue our endeavours for equality, dignity and justice," he said in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday. Tarique Rahman said they aspire to build a nation where every citizen matters and every voice is heard. Tarique urges vigilance to prevent divisive politics from harming Bangladesh "Together, we will restore democracy, strengthen public institutions, revive the economy and ensure political and economic empowerment of the people," he said.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Friday greeted the Bangladesh Cricket Team for their historic 3-0 series victory over the West Indies with an impressive 80-run win in the third T20I. "Congratulations to the Bangladesh Cricket Team on their outstanding 3-0 clean sweep in the T20 series against the West Indies," he said in a post on his verified Facebook page. Tarique said this remarkable achievement is a testament to the Bangladesh team’s unwavering dedication, exceptional teamwork and extraordinary skills on the field. “Such victories not only showcase your talent but also inspire millions across the nation, reinforcing the pride and passion we hold for cricket,” he observed. As the Bangladesh cricket team continues to raise the bar, he hoped this success would propel them toward even greater accomplishments on the international stage. “The entire nation stands united in celebrating your triumph,” Tarique said expressing his pleasure. BNP leader Salahuddin off to London to meet Tarique Bangladesh clinched an 80-run victory over the West Indies on Friday in the third T20I, completing a historic 3-0 series sweep at the Arnos Vale Ground. With this win, Bangladesh ended the long tour of the West Indies. They started the series with a draw in the two-match Test series and then lost the ODIs 3-0. But the Tigers came back strongly in the T20Is.

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed left for London on Friday. He took a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 8:40 am, said BNP media cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan. He said Salahuddin is travelling to London to meet BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman to discuss party matters. Protect country’s resources from ‘vulture eyes’: Tarique Sayrul also said Salahuddin’s daughter resides in London and he is expected to spend some time with her during his visit. Earlier, on November 30, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir travelled to London and returned on December 12. During his stay there, Fakhrul met Tarique Rahman, participated in various party events, and exchanged views with local journalists.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Thursday urged party leaders and activists to brace for a relentless struggle to safeguard the nation's independence and sovereignty, warning that conspirators at home and abroad are eyeing the country’s resources with "vulture eyes". “The conspiracy has not stopped. You have passed the test by fighting for democracy…But the exam is not over yet. There are more tests ahead. It is a struggle in favour of the people and democracy. It’s a war for independence and sovereignty. If we are to win this war, we must continue to fight,” he said while virtually addressing BNP workshops. “The workshops, titled "31-Point State Structure Reform Proposal and Public Engagement," were organised by the BNP Training Affairs Committee in Munshiganj, Narsingdi and Manikganj districts. BNP welcomes HC verdict scrapping part of 15th Amendment Tarique said the conspiracy by mischievous elements, both within the country and abroad, against the BNP, its leaders, and the nation, does not stop. "Many are greedily eyeing the country’s financial and natural resources. If chaos can be stirred in the country, or if a weak government, lacking popular support and not representing the people, can be kept in power, then many will have the opportunity to loot the country's wealth," he warned. The BNP leader said the interests of the country and its people will remain secure if a public-supported, pro-people, and patriotic government is in power. “In such a case, those who eye the country’s money, wealth, and natural resources with vulture-like greed will think twice.” He once again urged his party leaders and workers to work on building the people’s confidence in the BNP and securing public support to win the next election. “We have no alternative but to stay with the people and engage with them constantly to overcome the hurdle of the election with their support,” Tarique said. Mentioning that BNP leaders and workers faced serious ordeals and challenges in their political journey, he urged them to use all their experience, knowledge, and prudence to win the people’s support. He said their party will gradually implement the 31-point proposal if it gets the chance to form the government with the support of people. CA’s election statement disappointing, says Fakhrul Tarique said the people of Bangladesh can play a crucial role in helping the BNP implement the 31-point outline, which was formulated in consultation with all the parties that waged the simultaneous movement against the Awami League regime. He said their party is open to accepting any better proposals from other parties or individuals for the welfare of the people and the country. The BNP leader believes that a positive change will come for the country and its people if the BNP can begin working on the implementation of the 31-point proposal. “We will only be able to implement the 31-point plan if we have the public's support. So, we must go to the people and gain their support at any cost. We must convince them by constantly engaging with them,” he observed.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Saturday called upon his party colleagues to correct themselves first to retain people’s confidence and fight against extortion, corruption and immoral activities. “Correct yourselves first and then tell others to amend them. Otherwise, there’s no point of talking big (about eliminating immoral activities and extortion,” he said while addressing a workshop in Faridpur through a virtual platform. BNP Training Affair Committee arranged the Faridpur Divisional workshop titled “31-point state structure reform proposal and the public engagement” at Faridpur Sadar Upazila Complex. Virtually joining the workshop, Tarique replied to various questions made by some participants. Two leaders drew Tarique’s attention to various immoral activities and extortion by some party leaders, and asked whether the BNP would take steps for forming a commission or a body to take action if the any of its leaders and workers indulge in inhumane, anti-social and extortion or other misdeeds using the influence of the party. Responding to the question, Tarique, said. “If any of you has done such an immoral act, correct yourself first. We may have some bad people in our party, who are doing bad and immoral things. We have already taken action against many of them. He said their party is taking all out organisational actions whenever it receives any such complaint against anyone. Even the BNP leader said they are taking extreme measures by urging the administration with written complaints against those who belong to the BNP are doing excess. “The key is to correct you first, and then encourage others to do the same.” ‘Fighting my own shadow,’ says energy adviser about bureaucratic challenges Tarique urged the party rank and file to refrain from doing anything that undermines the public confidence in BNP. He said their party wants stability to restore in Bangladesh promptly so that the existing problems can be addressed properly.  

BNP senior leader Mirza Abbas on Sunday described the High Court verdict in the August 21 grenade attack cases as 'good news of justice' in the month of victory. “I want to share a piece of victory news on the first day of Victory Month… the court has acquitted Tarique Rahman and others in the August 21 grenade attack cases, as they were not involved in it,” he said during a discussion at the Jatiya Press Club. Bangladesh Swadhinata Forum, a pro-BNP platform, organised a programme titled “Independence, Democracy and Voting Rights in the Current Context”. The BNP leader alleged that they had not received justice during the Awami League's rule. "We received our first piece of good news today (Sunday), on the first day of December... Insha Allah, we are hopeful of more good news in the future." BNP not an obstacle to AL ban, says Rizvi Abbas, a BNP standing committee member, mentioned that thousands of party leaders and workers are expecting 'justice' in the cases filed against them during the Awami League government’s tenure. Earlier in the day, the High Court (HC) overturned the verdict of a lower court in two cases filed over the August 21 grenade attack, acquitting all those convicted, including BNP Acting Chairperson Tarique Rahman and former State Minister for Home Affairs Lutfozzaman Babar. An HC bench comprising Justice AKM Asaduzzaman and Justice Syed Enayet Hossain delivered the judgement on Sunday. The court also declared the charge sheet in the case illegal. The grenade attack, a shocking incident, occurred on Dhaka's Bangabandhu Avenue on August 21, 2004.   Foreign Conspiracy Abbas claimed that the August 21 grenade attack was masterminded by a foreign power as the BNP had never been involved in the incident. "A foreign power sought to frame our leader Begum Khaleda Zia and our BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman by orchestrating the misdeeds," he said. Later, Abbas said Tarique and several other BNP leaders had been convicted in false cases based on a fabricated story. "The court today (Sunday) delivered a verdict confirming that Tarique Rahman was not involved in it... he has been acquitted." BNP leader Khandaker Mosharraf acquitted in graft case Tarique’s Return Abbas also mentioned that Tarique Rahman would soon return to Bangladesh in good health. “That is why Allah has healed him, kept him healthy, and acquitted him." He prayed to Allah to grant Tarique a long life so that he could continue to serve the people of the country. The BNP leader also recounted the repression Tarique had faced after his arrest during the 1/11 political changeover.