Massive turnout at Tarique Rahman's rally in Khulna
Processions and convoys carrying BNP supporters from Khulna, Satkhira, Bagerhat and neighbouring districts began arriving at the venue from early morning, creating a festive atmosphere marked by banners, festoons, party flags and slogans.
A massive crowd of leaders, activists and supporters of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) gathered at Prabhati School ground in Khulna's Khalishpur area today (2 February) to attend a public rally addressed by BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman.
Processions and convoys carrying BNP supporters from Khulna, Satkhira, Bagerhat and neighbouring districts began arriving at the venue from early morning, creating a festive atmosphere marked by banners, festoons, party flags and slogans.
The rally is scheduled to begin this noon, with Tarique Rahman attending as the chief guest.
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He is also expected to join another public meeting in Jashore later in the day as part of his election campaign across the Khulna division.
Ahead of his arrival, the Khulna district administration has put in place a three-tier security arrangement. Police were deployed at key roads and intersections in Khalishpur from last night (1 February) to maintain law and order.
Party activists guarded the rally stage overnight, while separate seating arrangements were made for men and women.
Supporters from different districts gathered at the venue hoping to catch a glimpse of the BNP chairman.
BNP Khulna Metropolitan Media Cell Convener Mizanur Rahman Milton said a huge turnout was witnessed centring the rally, adding that Tarique Rahman is expected to arrive by noon.
Preparations for the stage, sound system and volunteer activities were completed in advance, with party leaders expecting the crowd to swell further once the rally formally begins.
Authorities have taken necessary measures to ensure overall security.
Many supporters said they were eager to hear Tarique Rahman's development roadmap for the region. Some expressed hopes for a terrorism-free country, while others called for improved public security.
Since this morning, local BNP leaders and party-nominated candidates from parliamentary constituencies in Khulna, Satkhira and Bagerhat have been addressing the gathering from the stage.
After a gap of 22 years, Tarique Rahman is visiting Khulna today. He last visited the city in 2004 as the BNP's Senior Joint Secretary General.
From the rallies, Tarique Rahman is expected to outline his plans for the region and seek public support for the party's electoral symbol, the "Sheaf of Paddy".
