Tarique vows Faridpur division if BNP elected
Staff Reporter :
BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman on Wednesday said Faridpur would be elevated to a separate administrative division if his party assumes power in the next national election.
Speaking at a rally held at the Government Rajendra College ground in Faridpur, Tarique said the BNP would move to create a Faridpur division if such a step proves effective in addressing the area’s long-standing problems.
“If establishing a Faridpur division helps resolve the region’s issues, BNP will certainly take that step,” he said.
Questioning claims of all-round development, Tarique argued that had development truly reached every part of the country, BNP candidates would not be raising so many unresolved concerns during the election campaign.
Highlighting democratic accountability, he said all authority of the BNP is derived from the people, and only a government accountable to citizens can ensure genuine development.
He added that the party has already formulated a comprehensive roadmap for governing the country if elected. Referring to river erosion as a major concern in the greater Faridpur region, Tarique said protecting this agriculture-dependent area would boost jute production and exports, helping the country earn foreign currency.
He also promised to support farmers by introducing a “farmer card” to ensure timely access to seeds and fertilisers.
On the issue of unemployment, Tarique said BNP plans to develop region-based industries to create jobs and allow people to live with dignity.
Stressing women’s empowerment, he said sustainable development is impossible without women’s participation. As part of social welfare initiatives, he announced plans to introduce “family cards” for women, aimed at supporting working families and low-income households.
Barishal rally
Addressing a divisional rally at Bells Park in Barishal, Tarique Rahman reiterated that the people are the sole source of all power, reaffirming that BNP’s politics, policies, and future plans are rooted in public interest.
“Our objective is the people, our purpose is the people. If we can change the lives of the people, the country will move forward,” he said.
He maintained that national progress is only meaningful when it translates into improved living standards for citizens.
Calling on people from all sectors to participate in nation-building, he also urged them to remain vigilant about the activities of a particular political group.
Addressing party leaders and activists, Tarique said, “From February 13 onward, and for the next five years, you must stay at the feet of the people. History shows what happens when a political force loses public support.”
Referring to the political situation after August 5, 2024, he said hopes had been raised that authoritarian practices would end, but those expectations were not met. Instead, he alleged, individuals from a “covert (‘gupto’) political force” had emerged as new oppressors in national politics.
Highlighting women’s contribution to the economy, Tarique said both men and women play equal roles in agriculture, while the garment sector survives on the labour of “our mothers and sisters.”
Criticising remarks allegedly made by a leader of another political group, he said a party that disrespects women cannot bring dignity or progress to the country.
“Just two days ago, the leader of this group used an insulting and degrading term for Bangladeshi women in public. A party whose leaders and activists lack even basic respect for women cannot uphold the honour of Bangladesh,” he said.
Emphasising collective development efforts, Tarique stressed the need to excavate thousands of canals and water bodies to improve flood control and water management.
On youth employment, he said vocational training and region-specific industrial planning were essential to create alternative job opportunities.
Addressing farmers, he announced that agricultural loans of up to Tk 10,000 would be waived and farmer cards introduced to ensure dignity and institutional support for the farming community.
He also accused a political party of spreading misinformation and engaging in unethical practices, urging people to stay alert so their rights are not “hijacked.”
If BNP comes to power, he said, the party would introduce family cards, expand healthcare services, and strengthen social welfare programmes.
Outlining development plans for the Barishal region, Tarique mentioned the proposed Bhola–Barishal bridge, gas-based industrial development, job creation, and measures to address river erosion.
He concluded by calling on citizens to unite in building the nation through people-oriented politics and inclusive development.