Staff Reporter :
BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Saturday said his party’s one of the major goal is to repair the broken structure of the state.
The BNP leader once again emphasized the urgency of holding a fair national election at the earliest opportunity.
“The primary responsibility of the interim government is to ensure a fair election. We expect them to fulfill this duty without delay,” he said while addressing the Jashore District BNP Conference virtually as the chief guest.
The inaugural session of the conference was commenced in the morning at the central Eidgah.
Tarique Rahman said if BNP is voted into power, its foremost priority will be to rebuild the country and restructure state institutions.
“Our immediate focus is on strengthening the party and implementing the announced 31-point reform agenda at the grassroots level,” he said.
He accused the autocratic government of dismantling the country’s institutions. Despite prolonged authoritarian rule, BNP introduced a 31-point proposal to counter oppression, he noted.
Tarique Rahman claimed that six million BNP leaders and activists are facing false cases, including nearly all councilors attending the conference.
Nevertheless, BNP, alongside other democratic political parties, has persisted in its struggle on the streets, he remarked.
He acknowledged the sacrifices of numerous leaders and activists who have lost their lives in this fight.
“Whenever BNP had the chance to govern, we endeavored to address people’s issues. Although some plans remained unfulfilled due to constraints, if given another opportunity, we will prioritize boosting production, enhancing education, empowering women, and upgrading the healthcare system to reduce the need for medical treatment abroad,” the BNP acting chairman said.
Addressing criticism of BNP leaders and activists, he emphasized that BNP operates on policies aligned with public sentiment.
“Despite this, among millions of activists, some may engage in morally unacceptable activities. We have taken action against them. BNP is the only party that holds its members accountable for misconduct. Any action that contradicts social values is met with consequences,” he said.
To BNP’s critics, he remarked, “Do not attempt to mislead. BNP has always maintained a clear stance against injustice.”
BNP Chairperson’s Advisor Amanullah Aman inaugurated the conference by raising the party flag and releasing pigeons and balloons.
During his speech, he expressed hope that national elections would be conducted soon.
He reiterated BNP’s unwavering support for the people during crises, which, he said, is why the party continues to receive public backing.
Outgoing district BNP convener Professor Nargis Begum presided over the inaugural ceremony. Although she had initially intended to contest for the position of president in this year’s council, she withdrew at the last moment.
In her farewell address, she said, “New leadership will emerge, and under their guidance, the party will grow stronger. I extend my best wishes to them. I have stood by BNP in difficult times and will continue to do so in the future.”
