Dhaka: BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman today announced that the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) will prioritize justice as the fundamental principle of state governance if elected in the upcoming national election. Rahman emphasized that just as there was no doubt regarding the Prophet Hazrat Muhammad’s (PBUH) sense of justice among all people, BNP aims to embody these ideals in its governance approach.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rahman made these statements while virtually addressing the Imam and Khatib Conference held at the Bangladesh China Friendship Conference Center in the capital. He urged the support and prayers of imams, khatibs, muezzins, Islamic scholars, and spiritual leaders to build a justice-based Bangladesh. Rahman also revealed plans to introduce ‘honorary allowances’ for imams and muezzins to enhance their financial stability if BNP is elected.
Rahman highlighted the historical context of the BNP’s commitment to Islamic values, referencing the party’s past initiatives under the leadership of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman. He noted the incorporation of ‘Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim’ and ‘faith and trust in Almighty Allah’ in the national Constitution. Rahman questioned why these phrases are not currently included in the same manner.
The BNP leader discussed past events where the party stood against actions perceived as contrary to Islamic interests, including protests against restrictions on religious practices and support for Hefazat-e-Islam in 2013. Rahman also emphasized the importance of involving religious leaders in state-driven initiatives and acknowledged the role of imams, khatibs, and muazzins as social reformers.
Rahman concluded by expressing the BNP’s intent to introduce financial support measures for economically disadvantaged imams and muazzins, and to strengthen the Imam-Muezzin Welfare Trust. He urged national unity to safeguard the country’s independence and sought prayers for the opportunity to implement these initiatives for the nation’s welfare.