Dhaka: BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today expressed optimism that the nation will embark on a path of significant progress under the leadership of Tarique Rahman. He emphasized the transition as a historic moment following a period characterized by challenges such as the erosion of democracy and the dysfunctionality of parliament under a long-standing authoritarian regime.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Mirza Fakhrul highlighted the significance of the recent fair election, which was achieved through considerable public sacrifice. The election has resulted in a newly formed parliament in which the BNP secured a majority of seats, allowing for the unanimous election of Tarique Rahman as the leader of the parliamentary party. Fakhrul expressed confidence that under Tarique’s leadership, the country is poised for substantial advancement.
The announcement of Tarique Rahman’s election as the leader of the parliament was made during a BNP parliamentary party meeting held at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban at noon. Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Mirza Fakhrul confirmed that the BNP MPs have resolved not to avail themselves of duty-free cars or government plots.
Earlier in the day, at 10:00 AM, the newly elected BNP Members of Parliament took their oaths in the Parliament Building, administered by Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin. The national election for the 13th parliament took place on February 12, with BNP emerging victorious in 209 out of the 297 decided seats.
The elections for two constituencies remain suspended, and one was cancelled due to the death of a candidate. Other parties, including Jamaat-e-Islami, National Citizens Party (NCP), and others, won the remaining seats, with independent candidates securing seven seats. Notably, Tarique Rahman has vacated the Bogura-6 seat, opting to retain the Dhaka-17 seat, prompting an upcoming by-election for the vacated constituency.