Emphasising the need for maintaining peace, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Thursday said he has a plan for the country and its people.
““We want peace in every possible way…if we remain united we can fulfill the expectations of the people,” he said while addressing party leaders, supporters and the nation at a reception at the 300 Feet road in the capital in the afternoon.
Tarique Rahman’s motorcade reached the mass reception venue in Purbachal, Dhaka. He arrived from Shahjalal International Airport in a bus draped in red and green.
At around 3:50 pm, Tarique Rahman took to the stage, and at 3:57 pm he began his speech, opening with the words, “Beloved Bangladesh.”
BNP leaders were with him, and taking the stage, he waved to the party leaders and activists.
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir welcomed Tarique Rahman on the stage.
In his speech, Tarique Rahman said that just as the people of the country achieved independence in 1971, in 2024 people from all levels of society, working together, defended the nation’s freedom and sovereignty. Today, the people of Bangladesh want to regain their right to speak. They want to reclaim their democratic rights.
Tarique Rahman further stated that the time has come for everyone to work together to build the country. He highlighted the diversity of Bangladesh, noting that the nation is home to people from the hills and the plains, Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians. He emphasised the goal of creating a safe Bangladesh, one in which every woman, man, or child can leave their home and return safely.
Referring to recent events, he mentioned Osman Hadi, who was killed a few days ago. He said Osman Hadi wished for the people of the country to regain their economic rights. To honour those martyred in 1971 and 2024, he said, the country must be built as envisioned.
Tarique Rahman stressed that the younger generation will lead the country in the future. He emphasised building the nation on a democratic foundation with strong economic stability, and repeatedly affirmed three times that “we want peace in the country.”
Referencing to Martin Luther King Jr’s famous quote “I have a dream,” Tarique Rahman said, “I have a plan.” He indicated that he has a plan to build the country and called for the cooperation of every citizen, noting that only with collective support can the plan be successfully implemented.
At this time, Tarique Rahman asked everyone to pray for the well-being of his mother, BNP chairperson and former prime minister, Khaleda Zia.
Tarique Rahman said, “Together, we will work and build our Bangladesh.” He also expressed his gratitude to everyone present.
