Dhaka: BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman today emphasized the necessity of ensuring the victory of the ‘Dhaner Shish’ (Sheaf of Paddy) symbol as a means to save Bangladesh: Speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration ceremony of the fourth day event of the BNP’s 7-day programme titled ‘Plan for Nation Building’ at the Krishibid Institution Bangladesh (KIB) Convention Hall, Rahman declared that the BNP is the only party with a concrete plan for the country’s future.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Tarique Rahman remarked on the significance of International Human Rights Day, highlighting the human rights violations that have occurred over the past 15-16 years. He criticized the Awami League for the alleged enforced disappearances, killings, and torture of BNP activists, underscoring the party’s commitment to ensuring the political freedom of expression for all citizens.
Rahman reiterated BNP’s role in restoring multi-party democracy under its founder Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, advocating for a political environment where differing opinions can be safely expressed. He also expressed his hope that no citizen would face the human rights abuses endured by BNP activists in the future.
Addressing socio-economic issues, Rahman spoke about the ‘Family Card’ initiative aimed at empowering women, who constitute half of the country’s population. He detailed plans to use this initiative to make families self-reliant, thereby strengthening the nation’s economic foundation. The importance of female education was also emphasized, with a nod to past initiatives for free education for girls.
Rahman introduced the ‘Krishak Card’ by the Krishak Dal, intended to boost Bangladesh’s agriculture sector. He noted historical increases in food production and the expansion of three-crop farming, asserting that strengthening agriculture would enhance food security and export potential.
On education reforms, Rahman proposed integrating additional languages like Japanese and Mandarin into the curriculum, alongside English. Emphasizing vocational training and cultural skills, he illustrated the demand for skilled labor in international markets, citing the unmet demand for underwater welders in South Korea and various roles in Japan, China, and Italy.
Rahman concluded by stating BNP’s commitment to implementing these plans if elected to power. The responsibility of disseminating these plans across the country, he said, lies with BNP activists. The event was presided over by BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi and inaugurated by BNP Standing Committee member Mirza Abbas, with BNP joint secretary general Habib-un-Nabi Khan Sohel moderating. Participants included units from the Jatiyatabadi Juba Dal and Krishak Dal.