Staff Reporter :
BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has cautioned that multiple forces are plotting to obstruct Bangladesh’s return to democracy.
Speaking virtually at the biannual Naogaon district BNP council on Monday, Tarique urged party leaders and activists to unite and resolutely confront these conspiracies.
The council, held at the Naogaon Convention Center in Baludanga, was convened after a 15-year hiatus.
Tarique acknowledged that even if BNP secures power through popular mandate, significant challenges lie ahead.
“The autocratic rule under Sheikh Hasina has inflicted severe damage across all sectors. We will face many obstacles, but the BNP has the experience and capability to overcome them,” he said.
Describing the upcoming election as the most difficult in Bangladesh’s history, he reiterated a warning he made a year ago about covert forces working to undermine the political process.
“No matter how many conspiracies are hatched, if the BNP family remains united, we will prevail,” he asserted.
He emphasised that public trust in the BNP stems from its commitment to national welfare. Speaking on the February polls, Tarique stated, “Numerous schemes are targeting this election.
However, if we earn the trust, faith, and love of the people, we can overcome all obstacles.”
Referring to the current political period as the “second phase” following the fall of dictatorship, he said the focus must be on restoring political rights through elections.
“The interim government has suggested the polls may be held before Ramadan next February, but various elements are conspiring to delay or block them.”
Tarique highlighted two key priorities: vigilance against opportunists seeking to exploit the party’s favourable position, and unity among leaders and activists to withstand all conspiracies.
The council was formally inaugurated by BNP Chairperson’s adviser and freedom fighter Abdus Salam and presided over by District BNP Acting Convener Rezaul Islam Rezu.
Other speakers included BNP Standing Committee member Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku, Rajshahi Division Organising Secretary Syed Shahin Shawkat, Assistant Organising Secretaries Amirul Islam Khan Alim and AHM Obaidur Rahman Chandan, and Bogra District BNP President and Conference Organising Committee Chief Coordinator Rezaul Karim Badsha.
The new district leadership is being elected by 1,414 councillors representing 11 upazilas and three municipal committees.
Twenty candidates are contesting the top three positions, with voting ongoing as of 7 pm when this report was filed.
