Dhaka: Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has called upon the politicians to work together to fulfill the hopes and aspirations of the people of the country. “The autocratic Hasina has been forced to leave because the people have supported the political parties for a change. Now, we should talk about the issues of the people. This is politics. Let us all work together to fulfill the expectations of the people,” he said.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Tarique Rahman was virtually addressing as the chief guest at an Iftar and Doa Mahfil organized by the Jatiyatabadi Somomona Jote at a Purna Paltan hotel. He emphasized the need for unity among pro-democracy parties that had previously stood together against dictatorship, presenting 31 points to the nation two years ago. Rahman highlighted the destruction of the country’s electoral system as one of the critical issues resulting from dictatorial governance.
Rahman further stated that the dictator Sheikh Hasina has damaged various sectors of the country, and stressed the importance of repairing state institutions to meet the expectations of the people. He reiterated that the biggest strength of their politics is the people of the country, and without rebuilding these structures, reaching the desired national goals would be impossible.
Discussing the ongoing conversations about reforms, Rahman acknowledged that while many voices are advocating for reform, BNP was the first to highlight the necessity for changes in Bangladesh. He expressed the need to focus on issues concerning the people’s interests, which he identified as the true capital of their political efforts.
Rahman also reflected on Bangladesh’s history, noting that the sacrifices of millions led to independence, followed by various disruptions to democracy. He credited the student and public uprisings in ‘July-August’ and public support for political parties with the successful expulsion of mafia dictatorship, which in turn accelerated the dream of forming a new nation.
Concerning potential reforms, Rahman mentioned discussions around creating an upper house parliament and balancing power, emphasizing that political discourse should prioritize the people’s interests. He questioned how long citizens would wait for basic services like ambulance access, stressing that these are the real concerns people expect politicians to address.
At the event, BNP Standing Committee Member Mirza Abbas commented on attempts to equate BNP with the Awami League, stressing that there is no crisis in BNP leadership and expressing his desire for institutional justice for the Awami League. He voiced concerns about foreign agents disrupting peace in the country.
The Iftar and Doa Mahfil was presided over by Dr. Fariduzzaman Farhad, coordinator of the Nationalist Like-minded Alliance and chairman of the National People’s Party, with leaders from various political parties in attendance.