Voting rights must be ensured to prevent plots against nation: Tarique

BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman today (9 November) emphasised the need for ensuring the voting rights of the people to prevent "ongoing conspiracies" against the country.

"Conspiracies against the nation are ongoing. These cannot be stopped unless democracy is restored," he said while virtually addressing the inauguration of a training programme for Krishak Dal at the Institution of Diploma Engineers in the capital.

"Without ensuring accountability, nothing positive can happen. Safeguarding the right to vote is crucial to preventing these conspiracies."

The BNP leader also announced a series of farmers' rallies to be held in every union over the next three months, starting on November 10.

"Krishak Dal must be made accountable to the farmers. Their issues should be addressed at the rallies, and solutions can be discussed accordingly. If the BNP comes to power, we will work to resolve the problems faced by farmers," he added.

Tarique Rahman also said Shaheed Ziaur Rahman's canal-digging campaign would be reinstated if the BNP comes to power.

"There are many regions in the country where farmers struggle to access sufficient water, which hampers crop production," he said.

He recalled how former president Ziaur Rahman addressed this issue by digging canals, which provided much-needed water.

He also pointed out that a significant portion of women in Bangladesh are engaged in agriculture, stressing the need to focus on agricultural development.

"We have always strived to address the problems faced by farmers. During Khaleda Zia's tenure, agricultural loans up to Tk5,000 were waived, and the government covered electricity bills during the harvest season, helping solve some of the farmers' challenges," he added.

Discussing the issue of seed availability, the BNP leader mentioned the idea of agricultural insurance to address crop damage caused by various factors.

"Farmers often take loans from moneylenders, which adds to their burden," he said. "If we implement agricultural insurance, this issue could be resolved."

He highlighted that it is not feasible to rely on food imports for such a large population.

"The country must produce its own basic food. We must think about how to expand agricultural land. There are steps that can be taken to increase it, and this can only be achieved if we come to power," he said.

He also said no more sham elections or voting at night should be allowed in Bangladesh.

"Voting must take place in daylight. There should be the freedom to vote for anyone you choose, and the freedom to vote safely. No one should be allowed to disturb and intimidate others."

The BNP leader said the election must be held in a fair and neutral manner without any fear. "If we can ensure this, we will gradually be able to ease the problems facing the country and its people."