BNP Ended Corruption Stigma Before, Can Do It Again

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Monday said the Bangladesh Nationalist Party has proven experience in freeing the country from corruption and restoring law and order, recalling that BNP had successfully removed the “corruption stigma” from Bangladesh during its previous tenure.

He made the remarks while addressing an election roadshow at Basabo Tarun Sangha ground in the capital in support of BNP’s Dhaka-9 candidate Habibur Rashid Habib.

Tarique said when BNP formed the government with public support in 2001, both the party and the country were burdened with allegations of corruption. However, by the time Begum Khaleda Zia’s government handed over power in 2006, Bangladesh had emerged from that label.

“The level of corruption the nation has witnessed over the last 16 years can only be addressed by BNP, because BNP has the experience to tackle it,” he said.

Referring to institutional reforms, the BNP chairman said the Anti-Corruption Commission was established during Khaleda Zia’s tenure as an independent body, empowered to investigate allegations against anyone without government interference.

“Khaleda Zia had the courage to ensure a truly independent ACC. That is why BNP was able to take effective action against corruption,” he added.

Speaking on law and order, Tarique said freedom fighters present at the rally could testify to the post-independence situation and how stability improved when late president Ziaur Rahman took responsibility for the state.

He said law and order further improved during Khaleda Zia’s tenure, when extortion was curbed and public safety strengthened. “Women could move freely and safely, and businesspeople were able to conduct trade without fear,” he added.

Tarique said BNP has experience not only in combating corruption but also in improving law and order, creating employment opportunities for youth and expanding education for women.

“To govern the country properly, planning and experience are essential, and BNP has both,” he said, adding that among the parties contesting the upcoming parliamentary election, BNP alone has real experience in running the state.

He also pledged that if BNP forms the government, initiatives would be taken to improve local infrastructure, including the development of roads and culverts, construction and renovation of hospitals, and effective measures to resolve waterlogging.