Dhaka: BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has sought votes in favor of the Sheaf of Paddy in the February 12 national election to build a safe and prosperous Bangladesh for all citizens, irrespective of caste, creed, and faith. He addressed the nation this evening ahead of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad election and referendum-2026, emphasizing the party’s vision for a secure Bangladesh.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Tarique Rahman articulated the party’s commitment to creating a society where every citizen, whether Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Christian, believer, or non-believer, and whether living in the hills or plains, will remain safe. He highlighted the principle that religion is personal, but the state belongs to all, and ensuring peace and security for all citizens is the responsibility of the state.
Rahman reflected on historical moments, such as the Liberation War of 1971 and the ‘War to protect independence in 2024’, noting that religious identity was never a question during these times. He emphasized that the people of Bangladesh have historically rejected autocracy, religious extremism, and militancy.
He underscored the political philosophy of preserving religious beliefs and cultures as envisioned by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman. The BNP chairman reiterated that Bangladesh belongs to all its citizens, regardless of party opinion, religion, or ethnicity.
Tarique Rahman also pointed out attempts to attack religious beliefs and values socially and politically. He mentioned that some Islamic scholars have highlighted efforts to mislead Muslims by misinterpreting religion for narrow partisan interests, urging vigilance against such manipulation.
He recounted BNP’s past governance, where they claimed to have built a self-reliant Bangladesh under Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, who was martyred for standing for the country’s interests. He praised his mother, the late Begum Khaleda Zia, for her unwavering commitment to Bangladesh, even in the face of imprisonment and oppression.
Rahman highlighted Khaleda Zia’s efforts to institutionalize democracy and establish people’s rights, urging the public to fulfill her aspirations by voting on February 12. He called on the people to make the Sheaf of Paddy victorious in the upcoming election to realize the dreams of Ziaur Rahman and Khaleda Zia, and to build a safe and prosperous Bangladesh for all.