Desk News: BNP Acting Chairman Tareq Rahman has called for a forward march towards building a just, humane, and inclusive Bangladesh, stressing that there is no longer any opportunity to look back. Speaking virtually at an event marking the 46th anniversary of the party on Sunday, Rahman said, “A fugitive dictator has stolen 15 years of national life. Our goal in the coming days is to push aside that nightmare and build a Bangladesh free of discrimination and filled with security and humanity.”
Rahman emphasized that in today’s world, dominated by information technology, people, especially the younger generation, are eager to see promises fulfilled rather than mere political rhetoric. He stated, “The BNP believes that structural changes in the state and politics are necessary, and all opportunities must be opened for the future generations and the active workforce.”
Addressing BNP leaders and activists, Rahman said, “You are the lifeblood of the BNP. Despite facing severe oppression, harassment, and false cases, you have not deviated from the ideals of nationalism. I understand that many of you have endured years of suffering at the hands of the mafia government and its allies. In the current changed circumstances, I request that you do not seek revenge for past oppression. Do not take the law into your own hands. If you face injustice, take legal action, but ensure no one becomes a victim of harassing lawsuits or attacks.”
Rahman further highlighted the BNP’s commitment to reforming the state and politics, stating that long-term state reforms are most effective when carried out by a government elected directly by the people. “BNP believes that reforming the state is essential for building the Bangladesh that people desire. This belief is also recognized in the democratic world,” he added.
He also stressed the importance of transparency in the activities and perspectives of political parties to make state reforms effective. Rahman mentioned that in July 2023, the BNP announced a program for political reforms within the party alongside state reforms.
Rahman outlined the BNP’s vision for a future Bangladesh, built on the foundation of inclusive and non-discriminatory Bangladeshi nationalism. He reiterated the party’s commitment to establishing a “caretaker government” system during elections, ensuring balance in state power by coordinating the powers, responsibilities, and duties of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, limiting the prime minister’s tenure to two consecutive terms, introducing a bicameral legislature, and even considering amendments to Article 70 of the Constitution.
As the party celebrated its founding anniversary, Rahman expressed his deep respect for those whose leadership, sacrifices, and hard work have transformed the BNP into a trusted institution for the people of Bangladesh.
On a related note, Rahman proposed establishing a museum to commemorate victims of various atrocities, including the 2009 Pilkhana massacre, the 2013 Shapla Square incident, and the disappearances and extrajudicial killings during the pro-democracy movements from 2012 to 2024. He asserted that this museum would serve as a warning to future leaders not to follow in the brutal footsteps of authoritarian rulers like Hasina.
Reflecting on the current situation, Rahman mentioned the recent floods that have engulfed vast areas of eastern Bangladesh, affecting nearly 10 million people and causing significant loss of life and property. He emphasized the urgency of addressing this crisis even as the interim government works towards fulfilling the aspirations of a popular uprising.
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