Youths to build future Bangladesh: Tarique

Reza Mahmud :

Returning homeland after 17 years of exile, BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman has said the youths of the nation will build the future Bangladesh with their love and visionary leadership.

Referring to the iconic “I Have a Dream” speech by US civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., Tarique Rahman said, “Standing on the soil of Bangladesh today as a member of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, I want to declare before you all that I have a plan for my country and for its people.”

Beginning his speech with the words “Dear Bangladesh,” he expressed gratitude to almighty Allah, saying it was through divine mercy and the prayers of the people that he was able to return to his beloved homeland.

Thousands of the BNP leaders, workers and supporters made a human ocean flooding the whole streets of the Airport area coming from across the country.

The BNP leader said with emotional voice, “The plan is centred on protecting public interests, accelerating national development and transforming the lives of citizens”.

“To implement this plan, I will need the cooperation of everyone present here and of all democratic forces across the country. If you stand with us, Insha’Allah, we will succeed,” he said.

Emphasising the importance of maintaining peace and unity, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman

on Thursday said he has a clear vision for Bangladesh and its people, calling on all to cooperate in turning that vision into reality.

“We want peace at all costs. If we remain united, we will be able to meet the aspirations of the people,” he said while addressing party leaders, activists and citizens at a massive reception held at the capital’s 300 Feet road in the afternoon.

After concluding his 15-minute address, Tarique waved to the crowd and briefly returned to the microphone to reaffirm his commitment to implementing his plan for the nation.

Recalling the Liberation War and subsequent democratic movements, he said Bangladesh achieved independence in 1971 through the blood sacrifice of millions of martyrs.

He also referred to the 7 November 1975 revolution and the mass movement of the 1990s, noting that conspiracies against democracy continued even afterward.

Tarique said people from all walks of life-students, workers, farmers, women, homemakers and madrasa students-stood united to protect the country’s independence and sovereignty on 5 August 2024.

Paying tribute to the martyrs of the July movement, he mentioned the recent killing of Osman Hadi, describing him as a brave member of the 2024 movement who dreamed of a democratic Bangladesh.

“If we are to repay the debt of the blood of our martyrs, then we must build the Bangladesh we have long aspired for,” he said.

He said the people now want their right to speak freely, fair treatment based on merit and the restoration of democratic rights. “The time has come for us to work together to rebuild the country,” he added.

Addressing the youth, Tarique warned of conspiracies by hegemonic forces and urged patience and restraint.

“Peace and order must be maintained at all costs,” he said. Highlighting Bangladesh’s diversity, he said the country is home to people of different religions and ethnicities.

“We want a Bangladesh where every woman, man and child can move freely and return home safely,” he said.

He noted that women make up half of the population, with millions of youths, children, people with disabilities, farmers and workers having legitimate expectations from the state.

“If we unite today, we can fulfill their hopes, Insha’Allah,” he said. Stressing the need for law and order, Tarique said peace must be safeguarded regardless of political affiliation, religion or profession. “Safety for all citizens must be our collective goal,” he said.

Recalling the sacrifices of 1971, he said the martyrs had dreamed of a just and secure Bangladesh. He also alleged that thousands were abducted or killed during the past 15 years under autocratic rule, including ordinary citizens who protested injustice.

Pledging to uphold justice inspired by the ideals of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), he said future leaders must govern with fairness and integrity.

On a personal note, Tarique said his heart remains with his ailing mother, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. He sought prayers for her recovery, saying she devoted her life to the people and the country.

Earlier in the day, Tarique Rahman arrived at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at around 11:44am, returning home after 17 years in exile. His motorcade reached the reception venue more than three hours later due to massive crowds lining the roads to welcome him.

He travelled in a red-and-green decorated bus and took the stage around 3:50pm, beginning his speech shortly after. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir formally welcomed him, while senior party leaders and representatives of allied political parties were also present.

Hundreds of thousands of leaders and supporters from across the country attended the programme organised to mark Tarique Rahman’s homecoming.