BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Sunday urged voters across the country to ensure the victory of the party's candidates in the national election, as it is crucial to bring a real change to people's lives and rebuild the country.
"Voting will take place on February 12, but the people of Bangladesh should not just elect their representatives. This election must be about rebuilding the country; it must be an election to change the fate of the people," he said.
Speaking at a rally at Adarsha High School ground in Mirpur-10 under the Dhaka-15 constituency, Tarique outlined BNP's national development plans, adding that the party would not make promises it could not deliver.
"In our election manifesto, we have set out initiatives to empower women, strengthen the economic backbone of farmers, improve healthcare, and create employment opportunities for young men and women through ICT, vocational and technical institutions," he said.
The BNP chief emphasised that these plans can only be realised with the support of the people. "All these changes and initiatives require your cooperation. BNP has presented its plans, and now I ask the residents of Dhaka-15: What is your plan for February 12?"
Thousands of party supporters responded in unison, chanting, 'Sheaf of Paddy, Sheaf of Paddy'.
Tarique then said, "Insha'Allah, if you succeed in making your plan on February 12, BNP will implement all the promises we have made for the people of this area and the country, step by step. BNP always believes that the people are the source of all its power. We do not make promises beyond the capacity of the people. We promise only what we can deliver."
Tarique also introduced BNP candidate Shafiqul Islam Khan Milton for Dhaka-15, urging voters to elect him. "The Bangladesh we envision, in honour of our martyrs, can start to take shape from February 13 if voters elect the Sheaf of Paddy."
Tarique began his Dhaka campaign earlier at 3:30 pm at the ECB ground in Dhaka-17, seeking votes for himself.
He then addressed a rally at Lal Matth in Pallabi under Dhaka-16, calling for support for BNP candidate Aminul Haque.
Highlighting local issues such as waterlogging and hospital services, Tarique promised solutions under the BNP rule.
"As a neighbour of this area, I will continue to oversee Dhaka-16. Insha'Allah, if Aminul Haque wins, I will personally ensure that development work and the welfare of the people here are properly monitored from February 13," Tarique told the voters.