Salahuddin Ahmed, a member of the BNP Standing Committee, said Thursday that security and reception preparations for BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman's return after nearly 18 years are nearing completion.
Briefing journalists on the party's reception preparations at the BNP Chairperson's office in Gulshan, he stated, "The overall preparation and security management for the beloved leader's return are nearly complete. We are currently inspecting the routes from the airport to Evercare Hospital, his residence, and other potential event locations, and coordinating these matters with the appropriate authorities. Details will be announced later.
Salahuddin stated that a team led by member secretary of the reception committee Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, convener of the BNP Media Cell Professor Dr Moudud Hossain Alamgir Pavel, and other concerned leaders, as well as the head of the security team, is inspecting all aspects, beginning with the airport's landing area and continuing through the boarding of the car and travel routes.
He also stated that security coordination has been ongoing for several days with the relevant government circles and departmental heads, and that cooperation is being received from the government.
Salahuddin stated, "Instructions have been given to BNP and its associate organisation leaders and activists from the district, upazila, and union levels across the country to come to Dhaka on the night of December 24 or the morning of December 25 to welcome the leader." Following his nearly 18-year exile, there is widespread enthusiasm and excitement throughout the country to see the leader, who is regarded as the guardian of the country's democracy.
"Preparations are underway for a memorable event with the goal that the return of this leader, who has led the democratic struggle against fascism for 16-17 years, will surpass all precedents of the previous 55 years and that such a historical event will not happen again in the next 55 years," Salahuddin added.
In response to a question, he stated that Tarique Rahman will arrive on a regular commercial flight from Biman Bangladesh Airlines, with a landing time of 11:55 am.
Regarding the reception arrangements, Salahuddin Ahmed stated that potential venues are being investigated, taking into account the large public presence and the need to avoid public suffering. The final venue, where maximum participation is guaranteed, will be announced later.
He stated, "Various responsibilities have been assigned to members of the reception committee, and communication has been strengthened nationwide to ensure the upcoming gathering undoubtedly becomes a historic public congregation."
He urged the media and others to work together to make the event a success, and he stated that detailed information would be provided to the electronic, print, online, and international media in due course.
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