Tarique questions reform focus, warns of delay in polls

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has expressed concerns over the ongoing emphasis on reforms, suggesting it may serve as a pretext to delay the establishment of a people's government. 

Speaking at an event organised in Songazi, Feni, via a virtual platform on Wednesday, he cautioned against extending processes unnecessarily under the guise of reform.

"The country is witnessing endless discussions about reforms, but we must determine if this narrative constitutes a conspiracy. If these processes are prolonged indefinitely, Bangladesh's problems will only escalate," Tarique warned during his address at Saber Mohammad Pilot High School field in Sonagazi of Feni. 

The occasion marked the handover of a new house gifted by Tarique to the family of Mohammad Masud, a slain Juba Dal leader from Sonagazi Upazila.

Tarique emphasised the urgency of establishing a people's government to tackle pressing issues such as rising commodity prices, unemployment, a deteriorating education system, and poor law and order conditions. "The sooner we establish a government that truly represents the people, the faster we can steer Bangladesh toward prosperity," he said.

He urged BNP leaders and activists to pledge unwavering commitment to their struggle until justice is served for victims like Masud and democracy is fully restored. "Our movement will not cease until the dignity of those martyred under dictatorial regimes is honoured and the people's rule is firmly established."

Tarique iterated the necessity of holding accountable those responsible for killings, enforced disappearances, and other atrocities committed during Sheikh Hasina's regime. "Thousands were killed, tens of thousands injured, and countless others left crippled before her escape. Those responsible for these crimes must face trial under the law," he asserted.

He warned that failing to bring Hasina to justice would embolden perpetrators in the future. "If her leadership isn't addressed, those involved in these heinous acts will remain unchecked. She cannot evade responsibility for the bloodshed."

Tarique called upon all pro-democracy political parties and activists to unite in demanding justice for the dictator who fled to India. "She must be brought to trial. There can be no compromise when it comes to accountability for the lives she destroyed."

The BNP Acting Chairman cautioned party members to remain vigilant against infiltrators seeking to disrupt their democratic movement. "We must stay alert and prevent any attempts to undermine our efforts to restore democracy," he stressed.

Also present at the event were senior BNP leaders, including Vice Chairman Abdul Awal Mintoo, Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, Joint Secretary General Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Annie, and Advisory Council Member Zainul Abedin Farroque. 

During the ceremony, the key to the newly constructed house was handed over to Masud's widow. Masud, a victim of extrajudicial killing, was fatally shot in a staged crossfire on June 25, 2016. Since his death, his family, including his wife and daughter (now in the tenth grade), has faced significant hardships, prompting Tarique Rahman's gesture of support.

This event underscores the BNP’s commitment to honoring its fallen leaders and ensuring justice for victims of past regimes while pushing forward with its mission to restore democracy and establish a government reflective of the people's aspirations.