Rangpur: Around five lakh BNP leaders, activists, and supporters have departed from Rangpur division for Dhaka to witness the much-anticipated return of BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman. His return marks the end of an 18-year exile, a period viewed by many as a conspiracy against the country’s independence and sovereignty.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Tarique Rahman is set to receive a grand reception in the 300-foot area of Purbachal in Dhaka. This event has generated considerable excitement among the BNP supporters not only in Rangpur but throughout Bangladesh. Md Shahidul Islam Mizu, a senior joint convener of Rangpur metropolitan BNP, mentioned that at least 50,000 BNP leaders and activists from Rangpur are expected to attend the event in Dhaka.
BNP and its affiliates have organized transport via buses, microbuses, trains, and personal vehicles to facilitate the journey. Thousands have already reached Dhaka and secured accommodation. The atmosphere in Rangpur is festive, as the return of Tarique Rahman is seen as a historic moment.
Rangpur district and metropolitan BNP sources revealed that each of the party-nominated candidates in the six Rangpur constituencies has prepared to bring at least 5,000 leaders, activists, and supporters to Dhaka. As the day approaches, BNP leaders, activists, and supporters have commenced their journey, with many traveling in groups supported by party funding for accommodation and other expenses.
Senior joint convener of Rangpur metropolitan Jatiyatabadi Jubo Dal, Md Jahir Alam Nayan, stated that his organization has been conducting celebratory processions in anticipation of Tarique Rahman’s return. He noted that many party members have already arrived in Dhaka.
The excitement is palpable among the general populace, with individuals from all walks of life expressing a desire to witness Tarique Rahman’s return. Member-secretary of Rangpur metropolitan Jatiyatabadi Swechchasebak Dal, Nur Hasan Sumon, highlighted the widespread enthusiasm, noting that even those not directly involved in politics are eager to join the celebrations.
Transport to Dhaka has seen a surge with hundreds of hired minibuses, coaches, microbuses, and special trains departing from Rangpur city and surrounding upazilas. Coordination teams have been established to maintain discipline during the journey.
Local transport services have reported a surge in demand, with advance tickets sold out and additional buses reserved for BNP supporters. Rangpur District Jatiyatabadi Jubo Dal president, Nazmul Alam Naju, estimated that around 50,000 people from Rangpur would attend the homecoming event.
Kawnia Upazila BNP convener Emdadul Haque Bharsha, currently in Dhaka, confirmed arrangements for transportation and expenses for his constituency’s supporters. He emphasized that similar preparations have been made by other BNP-nominated MP candidates.
The 300-foot area of Purbachal is expected to transform into a sea of supporters, reflecting the widespread anticipation of Tarique Rahman’s return, viewed by many as a symbol of democracy and development in Bangladesh.