Tarique Warns ‘Good vs Bad’ Politics Risks Democracy

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Monday cautioned that the political mindset of branding one individual as “good” and all others as “bad” is deeply harmful for democracy.

Speaking virtually from London at the BNP’s “Country-Building Plan” event held at the Krishibid Institute in Dhaka, he said this narrative had been cultivated by a particular political group for the past 16 years. Despite major political changes since 5 August, he added, the mindset remains intact. “This must change. It is urgently needed,” he stressed.

Tarique said democracy depends on pluralism, accountability and the freedom to express differing opinions.
“In a multi-party democracy, people have the right to hold diverse views. The belief that one person is good and everyone else is bad cannot be accepted. This mindset is dangerous for democracy,” he said.

He added that only a democratically elected government can be accountable to the people.

Recalling the July uprising, Tarique said the movement was driven not by political elites but by ordinary citizens.
“The true drivers of the 5 August movement were everyday people — housewives, small traders, rickshaw-pullers, transport workers, and students from schools, colleges, universities and madrassas. Even children took part, and 63 of them lost their lives,” he said.

Calling on the youth to unite for the nation’s future, he said: “The immediate future of Bangladesh depends on you. If you stand together, the country has hope. This is not a time for inaction.”

Amid internal discussions over nominations, he warned BNP leaders and activists: “A difficult political battle lies ahead. If the party is not united, a disastrous situation may arise.”

He acknowledged that not everyone would receive their preferred candidate and urged supporters not to let personal preferences override organisational decisions. “Your duty is to work for the sheaf of paddy, for the party and for the country’s development plan — not for any individual,” he said.

Tarique emphasised the need to involve the public in the party’s newly announced development roadmap.
“Just as people were committed during the movement, they must now be included in the plan to rebuild the country. Without public participation, nothing can succeed,” he said, instructing activists to intensify public engagement within the next two months.

He also highlighted initiatives introduced by late President Ziaur Rahman, mentioning canal excavation projects that boosted irrigation and increased crop yields. He said Bangladesh achieved food self-sufficiency during Zia’s tenure and even began exporting limited amounts of food.