Only BNP can drive Bangladesh forward: Tarique Rahman

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Monday urged voters nationwide to back the party’s election symbol ‘the Sheaf of Paddy’ saying BNP is the only political party with the experience, vision and practical plans to rebuild Bangladesh.

Speaking at a rally at Kamal Ataturk Avenue playground in Banani under his Dhaka-17 constituency, Tarique recalled the hardships Bangladesh faced after independence, including the 1974 famine that claimed lakhs of lives.

He said the country began transforming under the leadership of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, achieving food self-sufficiency and even exporting surplus produce.

“Twelve years of autocratic rule were followed by BNP governance under former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, which turned Bangladesh into an emerging economy with thousands of industries,” he said. “Now our priority is state reconstruction. We have removed authoritarianism; the next step is rebuilding the country.”

Tarique identified youth unemployment as one of the nation’s biggest challenges. He promised vocational and IT training centres nationwide, job creation at home and abroad, and low-interest loans for migrant workers to prevent distress sales of property.

Highlighting his personal connection to Dhaka-17, Tarique said, “My family and I were raised here. We understand the people’s needs and aspirations, and we are committed to their development.”

He recalled that his mother, Khaleda Zia, also spent her life in the area, strengthening the family’s bond with residents.

Outlining BNP’s broader vision, Tarique promised improved education, healthcare, infrastructure, and public services, while pledging to fight corruption and ensure accountable governance.

He urged voters to support BNP candidates across the country. “I ask for your verdict in favour of ‘the Sheaf of Paddy’ so we can change people’s lives and move Bangladesh forward,” he said.

On the final day of his Dhaka campaign, Tarique is scheduled to address eight rallies across the city, including in his constituency and seven other parliamentary seats under Dhaka South City.