Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman did not personally lay a wreath at the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar on Friday, prompting questions from supporters and the public. Party officials say the reason was procedural rather than political.
According to the BNP Media Cell, tributes at the National Martyrs’ Memorial must be completed before sunset, in line with established protocol governing visits to the site. On Friday, logistical and timing constraints meant that Tarique Rahman was unable to reach the altar within the permitted time.
As a result, senior BNP leaders paid tribute on his behalf at 5:06pm, shortly before sunset.
The wreath-laying ceremony was led by BNP Standing Committee members Goyeshwar Chandra Roy and Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan, along with BNP Chairperson’s Advisory Council member Amanullah Aman. Several other senior party figures were also present.
Party officials said the tribute was offered in observance of protocol and to ensure respect for the formal procedures surrounding the memorial.
The National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar is the country’s principal monument, honouring those who died during the 1971 Liberation War. Official visits and tributes are regulated, with strict timelines, particularly concerning daylight hours.
BNP leaders said the party remains committed to honouring the sacrifices of the Liberation War martyrs and described the tribute as a symbol of Tarique Rahman’s respect for the nation’s history.
There was no immediate comment from authorities regarding the ceremony.
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