Acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Tarique Rahman has called on party members to win the hearts of the people through justice and compassion rather than by showing power or fear.
"BNP has consistently upheld the interests of the nation and its people in every struggle for democracy and rights, making it the most popular and trusted political entity among freedom-loving citizens despite numerous adversities, he said in a video message from London marking the party's 46th founding anniversary on Sunday (1 September).
He paid tribute to the leadership and sacrifices of those who have contributed to the party's esteemed status.
Tarique noted that the country is at a historical crossroads, facing the formidable challenge of establishing an equitable Bangladesh amidst the interim government's efforts.
He remarked that although the country achieved liberation from autocratic rule on 5 August, conspiracies persist, aiming to undermine the success of the people's uprising.
Tarique Rahman expressed confidence that if the forces supporting Bangladesh remain vigilant, the country will not be led astray.
He criticised former regimes, highlighting the ongoing corruption and misrule symbolised by the Ganabhaban, which has become a symbol of the former administration's crimes.
He stated that various sectors are calling for the Ganabhaban to be established as a museum documenting the atrocities committed during the past regimes, including the 2009 BDR massacre, the 2013 Shapla Chattar killings, and other violent events.
In light of the recent devastating floods that have affected nearly one crore people and caused significant loss of life and property, Rahman announced the cancellation of BNP's anniversary celebrations to focus on flood relief efforts.
He urged supporters to continue aiding flood victims, particularly prioritising assistance for women, children, and the elderly.
Tarique Rahman also condemned the authoritarian practices of the previous administration, highlighting that the country has been left in a debt-dependent and import-reliant state.
He lamented that the previous administration’s ministers and officials had also fled, leaving the country in an unprecedentedly dire situation. He stressed the need for extensive state reforms to build a democratic and prosperous future for Bangladesh.
To achieve this, he called for immediate reforms in the Election Commission, law enforcement, and constitutional institutions, while ensuring that state reform processes involve direct public participation.
Tarique Rahman underscored the necessity of a representative and accountable government as a cornerstone of a democratic state.
Concluding his address, Tarique Rahman appealed to BNP workers to remain steadfast in their ideals despite past persecution and not seek revenge.
He urged them to pursue legal avenues if faced with injustice and to remain vigilant against any form of harassment or wrongful prosecution.
