Tarique can contest polls from any constituency he deems logical: Rizvi
Addressing the current political climate, Rizvi alleged that "shadows of hegemony" still loom over the nation
BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has said the party's acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, will contest the upcoming national elections from whichever constituency he deems logical, as his "popularity knows no bounds".
Speaking to reporters after paying tribute at the grave of party founder Ziaur Rahman in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar today (28 December), Rizvi said Tarique's leadership has been embraced nationally, making him eligible to run from any part of the country.
The visit to the mausoleum was organised to mark the 47th founding anniversary of Jasas (Jatiotabadi Samajik Sangskritik Sangstha), the cultural wing of the BNP.
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Rizvi noted that while it is logical for Tarique to contest the polls from a seat in the capital, it is equally significant for him to represent Bogura, the birthplace of his father, former president Ziaur Rahman.
"Tarique Rahman is the primary symbol of inspiration for voters across Bangladesh. Whether it is Dhaka or Bogura, his candidacy will face no barriers due to his immense public acceptance," Rizvi said.
Earlier this month, local party leaders reportedly collected nomination papers for Tarique for the Bogura-6 seat, while a nomination form for Dhaka-17 was also collected on his behalf this morning.
Addressing the current political climate, Rizvi alleged that "shadows of hegemony" still loom over the nation. He claimed that certain quarters are conspiring to undermine the country's sovereignty.
He urged Jasas activists to use their art — songs, poems, and literature — to inspire the nation and build a resistant national culture against such conspiracies. "Our history and heritage are strong enough to thwart any attempt to destabilise the country," he added.
Tarique Rahman returned to Bangladesh on 25 December after 17 years in exile. Since his arrival, he has been busy with organisational activities, including a visit to the Election Commission yesterday to register as a voter in the Dhaka-17 constituency.
