Tarique supports students' initiative to establish a political party

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Saturday expressed support for the initiative taken by students, who led last year's uprising, to form a political party. However, he cautioned that if the new party is perceived to have backing from the state and the current administration, it could lead to public disappointment. Speaking virtually at a discussion, Tarique also emphasized that focusing on controversies surrounding the national elections would only strengthen the position of the defeated fascist forces.

The event, titled "Jatiya Shikkhak Dibos and Shikkhak Samabesh," was organized by the Jatiya Shikkhak Karmachari Oikya Jote at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh, in celebration of the 89th birth anniversary of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman.

Tarique stated, "The country’s students and youth are now showing interest in the state and the political system, which is certainly a positive development." He pointed out that young people have not been able to vote in any election for the past one and a half decades.

He continued, “If these young people, who have been deprived of their democratic and political rights, decide to form a new political party to restore the people's rights, BNP wholeheartedly supports this initiative. However, if anyone seeks state or administrative support to establish a political party, it will only lead to public disappointment.”

Tarique further noted that if the actions, statements, or comments of those looking to form a new party are antagonistic or vengeful toward other political parties, the public will view it as undesirable.

“Today’s youth are the future of Bangladesh. They will create a new path, but it must be done transparently and with integrity,” Tarique remarked.

He also described any misunderstandings or unnecessary disputes between the interim government and pro-democracy forces as a waste of time.

“However, I urge the government to recognize that while the public may patiently endure its failures, those in power must display even greater patience and tolerance,” he added.

Reaffirming BNP's commitment to working for the people’s welfare, Tarique reiterated that the party aims to ensure both political and economic empowerment for the public.

“Elections are a crucial means of ensuring the political power of the people. Stirring controversy over the electoral process only strengthens the position of the defeated fascist forces,” Tarique warned.

He also urged party leaders and activists to remain vigilant to avoid confusion or provocation regarding their activities.

“The people are the source of BNP’s political power, and as long as the people stand with us, no conspiracy will be able to defeat us, Inshallah,” Tarique concluded.