‘Country to be governed on Prophet’s ideals if BNP is elected’

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Thursday pledged to govern Bangladesh in line with the ideals of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) if his party wins the February 12 national election, while accusing political rivals of deception, corruption, and attempts to manipulate the vote.

Speaking at a large public rally at the Sylhet Government Alia Madrasa ground, Tarique said no individual or political force has authority over matters that belong to Allah, criticising what he described as misleading promises made to voters. He alleged that certain parties are deceiving the public ahead of the polls and warned that such practices could worsen after the election.

He further claimed that conspiracies are being hatched to rig ballots, citing recent media reports about postal ballots allegedly being stolen from overseas destinations, including Middle Eastern countries. Tarique urged citizens to stay vigilant against any attempt to undermine the electoral process.

Referring to past political unrest, he said the people of Bangladesh have already shown they can resist conspiracies when united, pointing to mass movements in mid-2024 as proof of public strength and determination.

Allegations of corruption and pledge for reform

Tarique accused the previous government of siphoning off thousands of crores of taka over the past 15 to 16 years in the name of development, claiming large sums were laundered abroad. He vowed that a BNP government would reverse what he described as entrenched corruption and restore accountability.

“Not Delhi, not Pindi – Bangladesh comes first,” he said, reiterating his party’s stance on national sovereignty and rejecting any perceived foreign influence over domestic affairs.

Focus on farmers, canals, and the economy

Highlighting economic priorities, Tarique promised to place farmers and agriculture at the centre of BNP policy. He announced plans to revive a nationwide canal excavation program to improve irrigation, water management, and agricultural productivity – drawing on initiatives introduced during the tenure of Ziaur Rahman.

He said restoring canals, wetlands, and rivers would help mitigate water shortages and strengthen rural livelihoods, adding that his party wants to stand “beside farmers across the country.”

Jobs, women’s empowerment, and social support

Tarique also addressed youth unemployment, pledging to create large-scale job opportunities for millions of young people who remain out of work.

He emphasised women’s empowerment, noting that women make up roughly half of the country’s population and should be made economically self-reliant. As part of social protection plans, he proposed distributing “family cards” to vulnerable low- and middle-income households, with financial assistance channelled through female family members.

“Take Back Bangladesh” campaign

Describing BNP’s broader political agenda, Tarique said the party’s “Take Back Bangladesh” campaign is not only about protecting democracy but also about strengthening farmers, creating jobs, empowering women, and safeguarding citizens’ political rights, freedom of expression, and personal security.

He said the sacrifices of many over the past 15 years – including prominent political figures and activists – have paved the way for the current democratic struggle, urging supporters to remain united ahead of the election.