BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Monday criticised rival parties for relying on “big speeches” without concrete plans, saying that running a country demands experience, accountability and clear programmes to improve citizens’ lives.
“Many can speak beautifully on stage to receive applause, but governing a country is not easy. It requires detailed plans and the ability to implement them,” Tarique said while addressing an election rally on Pir Jangi Mazar Road in Dhaka-8.
He questioned the development strategies of other parties, adding, “Where are their programmes? They only have words. Experience is essential. Their own allies were in government recently, yet the country faces immense difficulties.”
He asserted that if anyone can change Bangladesh’s fate and tackle corruption, it is the BNP, represented by the ‘Sheaf of Paddy’ symbol.
Outlining his party’s vision, Tarique pledged to create 10 million jobs within five years, expand vocational, technical and IT training institutes, attract local and foreign investment, and support overseas employment through low-interest government-backed loans.
He also promised to recruit 1 lakh health workers and implement family and agriculture cards to empower women and farmers.
Local development initiatives for Dhaka-8, including playgrounds, expanded graveyards and waterlogging reduction measures, were also highlighted.
Tarique later handed the BNP symbol to candidate Mirza Abbas, urging voters to elect him.
Addressing election integrity, BNP Standing Committee Member and Dhaka-8 candidate Mirza Abbas warned against attempts to manipulate the vote, urging party leaders and activists to protect polling stations. Afroza Abbas, BNP Women’s Wing president and Abbas’s wife, was also present at the time.
At a Dhaka-10 rally, Tarique warned voters about election manipulation, citing incidents of fake ballot seals. He urged citizens to remain vigilant and resist any attempts to undermine voting rights, stressing that the upcoming 12 February election is the culmination of 16 years of struggle.
Speaking in Dhaka-17, Tarique reiterated BNP’s commitment to a safe Bangladesh, where citizens can live freely without fear, and called for support for candidates across the capital.
The rallies form part of BNP’s final-stage campaign ahead of the parliamentary election.
Tarique’s schedule includes rallies in Dhaka-9, Dhaka-5, Dhaka-4, Dhaka-6 and Dhaka-7, reinforcing the party’s focus on practical governance, public welfare and a corruption-free state.
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