Online Desk  :  BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has emphasized the urgent need for democratic forces to unite in order to move Bangladesh forward and restore peace, warning that remnants of a fallen authoritarian regime are attempting to regain power.  Speaking virtually at the biennial council of the Brahmanbaria district unit BNP, Tarique stated, “The autocrats we fought against are now on the run, but their cohorts are still active and trying to reorganize. We cannot allow them to succeed. To protect ourselves, our families, and the nation, unity is our only option.”  The council, held at Sohagpur Abbasuddin Khan Model College field, marked the first such gathering in nearly 12 years as part of BNP’s efforts to revitalize its grassroots structure. Tarique stressed that unity is the cornerstone of progress, saying, “If we want to rebuild the country with peace, we must remain united. Unity is power.”

Addressing potential disagreements among democratic parties, Tarique acknowledged differences over issues such as parliamentary functions, government tenures, and prime ministerial term limits. However, he urged against excessive debates, stating, “We can resolve these issues through dialogue. But if we focus only on debates, we will fall behind in rebuilding the nation.”  He warned that failure to prioritize the country’s reconstruction would only benefit the fleeing autocrats. “If we indulge in self-interest and endless debates, we risk pushing the country to the brink of collapse. We must rise above narrow interests and focus on the betterment of Bangladesh and its people,” he added.

Tarique highlighted BNP’s role as the largest political party in Bangladesh, calling on its leaders and workers to lead the rebuilding efforts. “BNP must not only remain united but also unite all pro-democratic parties, organizations, and citizens. The people expect us to play this role,” he said. He also criticized the current Awami League government, accusing it of depriving citizens of their right to vote and plundering national resources under the guise of development. “For 15 years, the people have been denied their right to vote through rigged elections. True accountability comes when people can elect their representatives freely,” Tarique asserted.

Reiterating BNP’s commitment to rebuilding the country, Tarique outlined the party’s 31-point framework aimed at overhauling all sectors, ensuring public welfare, and addressing the nation’s challenges. “The sooner we begin this process, the faster we can alleviate the people’s suffering and develop the country,” he said.  Concluding his speech, Tarique called for unwavering unity among BNP leaders and workers, vowing to resist any attempts to destabilize the country. “Our first pledge is to remain united under any circumstances. Our second is to rebuild Bangladesh alongside the people, ensuring peace and progress for all,” he declared.