A party lying against BNP in 'dictatorial language': Tarique Rahman

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman accused a certain political party of persistently spreading falsehoods against the BNP using authoritarian-style rhetoric. 

He specifically refuted claims labelling the BNP as corrupt champions, pointing out that two leaders from that accusing party served in the cabinet during a previous BNP government. 

"If we were truly corrupt, why didn't they resign at the time?" he questioned, asserting that such accusations stem from their lack of genuine political support base.

He made these remarks as the chief guest at a vibrant election rally held at the historic Circuit House ground in Mymensingh on Tuesday afternoon, around 4:30 pm, marking his return to the district after nearly 22 years.

During his approximately 25-minute address, delivered in the presence of his wife Dr. Zubaida Rahman on stage, Tarique Rahman focused on the nation's ongoing political challenges, future development vision, and the critical significance of the upcoming February 12 national election.

He opened by stressing the restoration of people's fundamental rights, declaring, "The right to free speech can only be secured when the right to vote is truly protected. For the last 17 years, the people of this country have been denied fair voting—ballots were cast at night disguised as day. Today, citizens seek a responsible guardian who will ensure quality education for their children and jobs for the unemployed."

Highlighting longstanding neglect in the Mymensingh and Jamalpur regions, he noted stagnation in key sectors like communication infrastructure, education, healthcare, and agriculture. 

To drive progress, he pledged transformative initiatives: Transforming fish farming into a full-scale industry to generate massive employment opportunities. 

Emphasising women's empowerment as essential for national advancement, he recalled Khaleda Zia's policy of free education for girls from classes 1 to 12 and announced plans to introduce a 'Family Card' to support women across households and continue progressive policies.

For the youth, he prioritised employment to combat drug abuse, promising extensive IT training programmes so young people can compete globally from home.

On healthcare, he committed to easing pressure on district hospitals by strengthening union-level services through rural doctors, delivering care directly to doorsteps—especially for children, mothers, and women.

He also pledged special training and dignified salaries for mosque imams, khatibs, and muezzins under a future BNP government.

Urging strong support for the February 12 polls, Tarique called on voters in Mymensingh division to back the 24 BNP candidates using the paddy sheaf (Dhaner Shish) symbol. 

In a passionate appeal, he said, "On election day, rise after Tahajjud prayers, head to the polling stations after Fajr, cast your vote—and stay. In the past, our votes were stolen. This time, guard the centers after voting until victory is certain. Do not leave until the sheaf triumphs." 

The rally reflected high enthusiasm, with large crowds gathering from early morning in anticipation of his address.