It is high time to establish a humane country based on justice: Tarique Rahman

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman put stress on the party’s commitment to empowering people politically, stating that an opportunity has emerged to build a just, accountable, democratic, and humane Bangladesh through direct public voting. 

He made these remarks during a virtual speech at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center (BCFCC) on Tuesday evening, marking the anniversary of the July-August 2024 mass uprising.

Reflecting on his August 5, 2024, speech after the fall of the fascist regime, Rahman paid tribute to the mothers, husbands, and brothers lost in the uprising, calling the martyrs the pride of freedom-loving Bangladeshis. 

He vowed that, like the 1971 freedom fighters, the sacrifices of 2024’s martyrs would be remembered. 

If BNP comes to power, Tarique Rahman proposed naming institutions after these martyrs to honour their contributions and to establish a system where power rests with the people, reducing political corruption.

The BNP launched a 36-day programme to commemorate the first anniversary of the July-August 2024 uprising, including a discussion titled “Mass Uprising 2024: National Unity and Democratic Movement” and a tribute to martyred families. 

BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia attended as the chief guest, joined by families of martyrs, injured activists, intellectuals, senior journalists, and leaders from 63 anti-fascist political parties. 

The event featured honours for martyred families and a documentary on the uprising.

Tarique Rahman highlighted the heavy toll of the movement, noting 422 BNP members among 1,500 martyrs from various professions, over 30,000 injuries, and more than 1,000 people paralysed. 

He stressed that the sacrifices, including those of children, were not for personal gain but for the nation’s future. 

The BNP leader questioned whether such losses must persist, emphasising the need for a safe political environment and fulfilled promises.

Outlining future plans, Tarique Rahman reiterated the BNP’s 31-point state reform agenda and commitment to forming a national government if elected, emphasising unity against oppressive forces. 

The event was chaired by BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, with a welcome address by Professor Dr. Morshed Hasan Khan, member secretary of the July-August Mass Uprising Anniversary Committee.