ACC to get full independence if BNP returns to power: Tarique

BNP acting ahairman Tarique Rahman today (9 December) pledged that his party would fully ensure the independence of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) to effectively fight corruption in the country if it returns to power.

"Today is International Anti-Corruption Day. We must rein in corruption, and we have the track record to do it. BNP has a proven record of controlling corruption," Tarique said while speaking virtually at the closing session of the third day of BNP's 'Plan to Build the Country' programme.

Referring to the tenure of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, he said the ACC was established with strong authority so it could investigate any allegation of corruption related to the government without needing permission from anyone.

"It was completely independent. This shows how confident and committed Khaleda Zia was in fighting corruption. She made that commission fully independent. Insha'Allah, we will establish the same system again," he said.

Tarique accused the "autocratic Awami League government" of later amending the law, making government permission necessary before launching any corruption probe involving officials. "If needed, and if it is in the country's interest, we will change that rule again. Let us rein in corruption," he said.

The BNP leader also highlighted the party's achievements in key areas, including food production, employment, expansion of internet services, and support for women's education.

He added that BNP had previously improved industry, secured overseas jobs, and strengthened the economy. "Only BNP has a track record of success. Only BNP has the plans. Nice words cannot give people food. Nice words cannot create jobs. Development requires planning — and only BNP has that planning."

Tarique urged party leaders and activists to take BNP's plans to every village and household, including women, youth, community elders, and religious leaders.

"There is no time to sit quietly. We must go to the streets and reach the people. Everything — including the country's independence, sovereignty, and democracy — now depends on the BNP," he said.

He stressed the need for unity to restore democracy and protect Bangladesh's future. "We must stand by the people. If we fail to unite the nation now, the very existence of our country may be at risk in the future."

Tarique emphasised that ensuring law and order is crucial for the success of BNP's development plans, asserting that no one should be above the law, even if the wrongdoer belongs to their own party.

He said people are tired of constant arguments and political blame games in the media. "Voters now want clear answers about what a party will do for them. Students want to know what kind of education system they will get. Young people want clear guarantees about their future and employment."

Tarique expressed strong confidence that BNP would be able to form the next government through the people's vote and urged all party leaders and activists across the country to support that goal with full commitment.

The third day of the programme was inaugurated in the morning by BNP Standing Committee member Nazrul Islam Khan at the Krishibid Institution Bangladesh (KIB) auditorium in Dhaka's Farmgate, with BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi presiding.

Leaders and activists from the Ulema Dal and Swechchhasebak Dal across the country attended the session. They received training on how to reach voters and explain BNP's plans, election manifesto, and promises ahead of the polls.