Tarique Warns of Deep Plot, Urges Vigilance Nationwide

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Wednesday warned of what he described as a “deep conspiracy” unfolding in Bangladesh and urged citizens to remain vigilant, saying the coming days would be decisive for the restoration of people’s rule.

Addressing an election rally organised by the Faridpur district BNP at Rajendra College ground, Tarique said that thwarting the alleged conspiracy by 12 February would pave the way for the establishment of people’s rule from the following day.

In his 24-minute speech, he pledged that if BNP comes to power, all commitments made for Faridpur’s development would be honoured. These include granting the district city corporation status and recognising it as a separate administrative division.

Referring to his 17 years away from the country, the BNP chief claimed that so-called development during that period amounted to “plunder”. He said the time had come to restore the rights that, in his words, had been taken away from the people.

Tarique also promised initiatives to create employment opportunities for unemployed youth, stressing that sustainable jobs were essential for national stability and progress.

Speaking about families affected by the July incidents, he said victims of enforced disappearances, killings and injuries were demanding the return of rights lost over the past 16 years. “Many people suffered simply for demanding their rightful place,” he said.

He further remarked that individuals who show public disrespect towards the country’s mothers and sisters cannot be trusted with national leadership. Criticising what he described as a secretive group demanding verification numbers and national identity cards, he termed such practices unethical and contrary to citizens’ rights.

The BNP chairman said meaningful governance cannot be expected from those who fail to respect the people. He added that widespread damage had been done to the country and called for comprehensive reconstruction, including rebuilding educational institutions, setting up factories, re-excavating canals and rivers, and establishing cold storage facilities for farmers.

Highlighting river erosion as a major challenge in the greater Faridpur region, Tarique said effective prevention could boost agricultural output and exports, particularly jute, and help earn foreign currency.

Introducing BNP candidates for all 15 parliamentary constituencies in greater Faridpur, he urged voters to support the party’s ‘Sheaf of Paddy’ symbol in the upcoming polls.

BNP Central Organising Secretary Shama Obaed, Faridpur BNP Secretary AK Kibria Swapon, and BNP leaders Abzal Hossain Khan Palash and Khandakar Nasirul Islam also addressed the rally.