Country's resources looted in the name of development: Tarique Rahman

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has accused that the nation's resources have been systematically looted under the guise of development over recent years.

He made the remarks during BNP's inaugural election rally held on Thursday afternoon at the Government Alia Madrasa ground in Sylhet.

Tarique Rahman warned that conspirators remain active both domestically and internationally. He urged everyone to stay vigilant against those plotting against the nation. 

He recalled how the people of Bangladesh have previously united to thwart such conspiracies and affirmed that they will continue to resist any future attempts.

The rally marked the formal launch of BNP's election campaign. 

Tarique Rahman took the stage around 12:30 pm amid enthusiastic slogans from the crowd.

Earlier in the morning, he engaged in an interactive session with students from various universities and colleges at the Grand Sylhet Hotel near the airport area. 

Thousands of leaders and activists lined the routes to welcome him, particularly at key points like the Chawhrata intersection.

The event drew massive participation from BNP leaders, activists, and supporters across Sylhet and Sunamganj districts. 

Many wore coloured hats in support of specific party candidates. Crowds began gathering at the venue from the previous night, arriving in organised processions from early Thursday morning. 

By 11 am, the ground was overflowing, forcing many to occupy adjacent roads and sidewalks on the western and southern sides.

The programme officially commenced at 10:50 am with a recitation from the Holy Quran by Maulana Saliq Aham, Imam of Amberkhana Mosque.

The session was chaired by Sylhet District BNP President Abdul Qaiyum Chowdhury, with Metropolitan BNP Acting President Rezaul Hasan Kayes Lodi and General Secretary Imdad Hossain Chowdhury overseeing proceedings. 

Senior local BNP, Jubo Dal, and Chhatra Dal leaders addressed the gathering initially.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir arrived around 11 am, followed by speeches from district and central leaders starting at noon. 

Candidates contesting the 11 parliamentary seats in Sylhet and Sunamganj divisions were present from the morning. 

Family members of martyrs from the July movement were also present near the stage in a show of solidarity.