BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has described the question of whether to prioritise reform or election as "ill-intentioned and deceitful."
Speaking at a discussion marking the 46th founding anniversary of the Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal, he emphasised that the BNP, as a patriotic force, along with the people and political parties of the country, views such questions with suspicion.
"BNP believes that both reform and election are indispensable for bringing qualitative change to the state, politics, and political parties. Reform is a continuous process that ensures the existing system remains timely, while elections are the most critical and effective tool for sustaining and institutionalizing democracy," said Tarique Rahman during the event at the Engineers Institution in Dhaka on Wednesday (January 1).
He elaborated that elections empower citizens by enabling them to exercise their right to vote, ensuring the legitimacy of political power for both the state and its people.
In his speech as the chief guest, Tarique Rahman paid tribute to the colleagues who have been killed, disappeared, or martyred. Reflecting on the past year, he said: "The historic year 2024 ended with the humiliating fall of a mafia dictatorship that oppressed the nation. The new year begins with immense potential to build a safe and prosperous Bangladesh."
He extended his New Year’s wishes to the brave students and citizens of the country, expressing optimism about the future.
Acknowledging the sacrifices of students in bringing down the previous regime, Tarique Rahman praised the Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal for its resilience and contribution:
"Overcoming countless challenges, Chhatra Dal has emerged as a popular and credible organization among students. Its dedication and mindset have left a positive impression on ordinary students and the general public."
He cautioned party leaders and activists to avoid hasty decisions that could undermine the momentum for a mass uprising, urging vigilance and careful deliberation to sustain progress.
Addressing the youth, Tarique Rahman underlined the pivotal role of students in shaping a safe and self-reliant Bangladesh: "To make Bangladesh an effective and influential state on the global stage, and to ensure our citizens live with dignity, we must build a knowledge-based society and state."
The discussion, chaired by Chhatra Dal President Rakibul Islam Rakib and moderated by General Secretary Nasir Uddin Nasir, also featured BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir as a special guest. Leaders and activists from various BNP-affiliated organisations, including Chhatra Dal and Juba Dal, attended the event.