Arrange for elections at earliest instead of unnecessary discussions on reforms: Tarique 

BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman has urged the government to arrange national elections quickly instead of focusing on unnecessary discussions about reforms. 

"If we keep engaging in unwarranted talks about reforms, the core issues of the state might get masked. Therefore, hold elections promptly rather than indulging in unnecessary discussions about reforms," he said today (24 February) while addressing a conference virtually at the Khulna Circuit House grounds, organised by the district metropolitan BNP.

Tarique emphasised that the more democracy is practiced, the clearer the democratic process becomes. 

"This is the reason why the BNP elects its leaders through democratic means."

He also said if the BNP comes to power, it will focus on development in sectors like women empowerment, education, agriculture, and health. 

Tarique also urged the interim government to pay attention to these issues as well.

Emphasising unity among political parties, Tarique Rahman urged all to remain vigilant against the return of fascism, reports UNB.

"The fascists who fled the country will try to ruin our unity but we all must remain alert," he said.

Tarique called upon those who fought for over 16 years against the Awami League not to engage in infighting over trivial issues.

Holding the Awami League responsible for destroying democratic institutions during its rule, he said restoring people's voting rights through a fair election is the main task.

Expressing optimism about his party's prospects, he said the BNP will win if the election is held fairly, and urged party followers to stand by people in both good and bad times and to be responsible and acceptable.

He claimed that several lakhs of BNP men faced ghost cases during their fight to restore democracy, while several thousand leaders and activists were killed or disappeared.

The BNP acting chairman said the blood of 2,000 students and people who sacrificed their lives during the July-August 2024 uprising must be valued and honoured.

Urging all to work together to ensure food, education, communication and healthcare for people, he alleged that the Awami League has destroyed the country, which must now be rebuilt from the brink of destruction.

Presided over by Khulna city unity of BNP convenor Advocate Shafiqul Alam Mona, BNP Chairperson's Advisory Council Member Amanullah Aman, Party's Vice Chairman Nitai Roy Chowdhury, Organising secretary Aninda Islam Amit, student affairs secretary Rakibul Islam Bakul, among others, spoke at the event.