Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairman Tarique Rahman stated today that ownership of heaven and hell belongs solely to Allah, and no human has the authority to promise what they do not own.
Addressing a massive election rally as the chief guest at the Sylhet Government Alia Madrasa ground on Thursday (January 22), he accused certain quarters of engaging in “shirk” (polytheism) by promising spiritual rewards to deceive voters ahead of the national polls.
‘Deception through Shirk’
“The ownership of heaven and hell lies with Allah alone. No one else has the power to grant what belongs to Him,” Tarique Rahman said. Referring to those allegedly distributing “tickets” to paradise, he added, “Those who are promising things they do not own are committing shirk and deceiving the people before the elections.”
The BNP Chairman launched a sharp critique against political rivals, stating that the people of Bangladesh are well aware of those who use lies to mislead the public. Recalling the history of the Liberation War, he remarked, “The people saw that party during the war. That is why our priority is neither Delhi nor Pindi—it is Bangladesh first.”
Economic Pledges: Family Cards and Employment
Outlining the BNP’s vision for a future government, Tarique Rahman highlighted the party’s commitment to social welfare and economic self-reliance. He credited the previous administration under Khaleda Zia for pioneering free education for women.
“If elected, BNP will introduce ‘Family Cards’ to make every underprivileged and middle-class family self-reliant,” he promised. He also emphasized the creation of employment opportunities for the unemployed youth to tackle the national jobless crisis.
Local Issues and Allegations of Election Irregularities
Addressing local concerns in Sylhet, the BNP Chairman spoke about the devastating floods that recently submerged the city. “We do not want a repeat of the incident where floodwaters were released, flooding the entire city of Sylhet. We want every citizen to live safely and prosperously,” he said.
Furthermore, he warned of domestic and international conspiracies, citing examples from other regions. “The nation has witnessed how postal ballots were ‘robbed’ in various countries, including the Middle East. Some circles are trying to orchestrate similar conspiracies here,” he alleged.
Call to Vote for ‘Sheaf of Paddy’
Tarique Rahman concluded his speech by calling upon the citizens to support the BNP in the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election. He urged the public to vote for the party’s symbol, the ‘Sheaf of Paddy’ (Dhaner Shish), to ensure a government that works toward making every individual self-sufficient.
