Why 25 Dec? BNP explains the timing of Tarique Rahman’s homecoming

The BNP has said 25 December was chosen as the date for the return of its acting chairman Tarique Rahman, to reduce public suffering and prioritise the convenience of people.

Professor Moudud Hossain Alamgir Pavel, convener of the BNP Media Cell and a member of the reception committee, made the remarks this morning (25 December) at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.

He said the date was selected as 25 December, Christmas Day, which is a public holiday and is followed by Friday and Saturday, creating a three-day break.

"This means the pressure on the roads and the suffering of people will be much less than on a regular working day," he said.

He added that annual examinations at most educational institutions are over, and many people are in a holiday mood, reducing the likelihood of disruption to students and daily activities, even if a large gathering takes place.

Alamgir Pavel said that, unlike previous large rallies held at Suhrawardy Udyan or Manik Mia Avenue that paralysed the city, the reception venue this time has been set on the outskirts of Dhaka to keep traffic in the main city normal.

He also said help desks have been set up at Mohakhali, Abdullahpur and in front of the airport to ensure smooth movement of people.

"From these points, volunteers will provide escort services to outbound passengers and especially to patients in ambulances so that they can reach their destinations without suffering," he said.

Pavel said Tarique Rahman did not want any programme that would cause hardship to ordinary people.

"As a leader of the people, he wanted to choose a time and plan that would allow the programme to be held in a festive manner without bringing public life to a standstill," he said.

He compared the arrangement to organising a family event in a way that does not block neighbours' movement and is held on a holiday so that attendance is easier without affecting work.