BNP Standing Committee Member and Cox’s Bazar-1 candidate Salahuddin Ahmed on Sunday accused those who opposed Bangladesh’s independence of trying to sow religious divisions in the country.
Speaking at a roadside election rally organised by the local union BNP in Manikpara of West Barabheola under Chakaria Upazila, Salahuddin said other active political parties lack concrete plans for public welfare and instead aim to divide people on religious lines. “The people of this country don’t want such divisions,” he added.
Calling for national unity, he stressed that Bangladesh’s independence and sovereignty must be preserved at any cost. He alleged that democracy in the country had been repeatedly undermined in the past but restored under BNP leadership.
Referring to the student-led mass uprisings, Salahuddin recalled the sacrifices of hundreds of martyrs who fought for a democratic and discrimination-free Bangladesh. He urged voters to support the BNP’s electoral symbol, ‘Dhaner Shish’ (Sheaf of Paddy), to realise the vision of those martyrs.
Salahuddin outlined the BNP’s development agenda, emphasising practical and people-oriented policies. “We don’t aim to create unemployed graduates; we want skilled, productive manpower. Our goal is to turn Bangladesh’s 18 crore population into 36 crore working hands,” he said.
He also highlighted the party’s plans for environmental protection, including tree plantation, canal excavation and reducing plastic use.
On economic issues, Salahuddin promised to restore discipline to the country’s economy, which he said had fallen into chaos.
Senior BNP leaders present at the rally included Upazila BNP President Jamil Ibrahim Chowdhury, General Secretary Hefazutur Rahman Tipu Mia, and Organising Secretary Shoaibul Islam Sabuj.
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