Dhaka: BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has expressed gratitude to the Election Commission (EC) for enabling expatriate Bangladeshis to participate in the upcoming national election. "Expatriate Bangladeshis have long sought the right and opportunity to vote in national elections. Their hope is partially fulfilled in the upcoming election," he remarked.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, around 5 million expatriates from various countries will have the chance to vote in the upcoming national election. Tarique Rahman extended his congratulations and appreciation to the Election Commission for facilitating this opportunity for expatriates to exercise their voting rights.
Tarique Rahman made these comments as the chief guest during the virtual inauguration of the online payment system for renewing primary memberships and enrolling new party members from abroad. The event took place at the La Vita Banquet Hall at the Lakeshore Hotel in Gulshan, with BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir presiding.
Rahman also emphasized that the opportunity for expatriates to vote is an acknowledgment of their rights and contributions to Bangladesh. He acknowledged potential complexities in the voting process for some, given it's the first time such an opportunity has been introduced. He assured that if the BNP assumes power, efforts will be made to simplify the system.
BNP Standing Committee Members Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, Dr. Abdul Moyeen Khan, Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain, Selima Rahman, Gayeshwar Chandra Roy, Nazrul Islam Khan, and BNP Media Cell Convener Prof Dr. Moudud Hossain Alamgir Pavel also addressed the gathering.
Rahman expressed concerns over women's safety in the country, highlighting that women make up nearly half of the population. He called for collective efforts to address women's security issues at all societal levels.
He mentioned that the BNP has historically faced conspiracies but maintained its position due to support from democracy-loving citizens. He warned about emerging propaganda and foul play aimed at hindering BNP's success in the upcoming election.
Rahman noted that during the rule of a previous dictator, public interest in national elections waned, but curiosity has been rekindled under the current interim government. He revealed that the BNP plans to support and allocate some seats to those who supported the party during the anti-fascist movement, even if it means some BNP candidates might not receive nominations.
He urged party members to accept the decision and work in unity. Other prominent BNP figures, including Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, Dr. Abdul Moyeen Khan, Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain, Selima Rahman, Gayeshwar Chandra Roy, and Nazrul Islam Khan, also spoke at the event.