BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has urged the people of Bangladesh to vote for the ‘Sheaf of Paddy’ (Dhaner Shish) symbol in the upcoming national election to ensure a change in their fortune and a return to the path of development.
Addressing an election rally at the BRB ground in Bhashantek, Dhaka, on Friday evening, Tarique Rahman highlighted that whenever the people of the country elected the ‘Sheaf of Paddy’ in the past, it resulted in significant national development and improved the lives of the general public.
Focus on Dhaka-17 and Local Issues
The rally marked Tarique Rahman’s first public meeting in the Dhaka-17 constituency since the formal election campaign began. Accompanied by his wife, Dr. Zubaida Rahman, the BNP leader took an unconventional approach by inviting local residents—including youth, students, and low-income workers—to the microphone to share their specific grievances.
Residents of Bhashantek raised demands for the rehabilitation of slum dwellers, employment opportunities for women, and the introduction of “Family Cards.”
In response, Tarique Rahman said:
“I grew up in this area and consider myself one of your own. As your candidate, I promise that if the ‘Sheaf of Paddy’ forms the government with your prayers and support, we will prioritize the rehabilitation of slum dwellers and solve the issues you have raised today.”
Vision for Youth and Sports
Pointing to former national football captain Aminul Huq on the stage, Tarique Rahman expressed his vision for the country’s youth. He emphasized that the BNP aims to create a professional environment where young talents can build careers through sports. “We want to produce world-class athletes so that our boys and girls can earn their livelihood through their talent in sports,” he added.
Restoring Democracy and Accountability
Reflecting on the political landscape, the BNP Chairman noted that the country has undergone a major transformation following the mass uprising on August 5. He argued that the destruction of various sectors over the last 15–16 years has set the nation back, and reconstruction is only possible through a truly democratic process.
“To solve your problems, democracy must be established. If you can elect your representatives freely—whether in the National Parliament, municipalities, or Union Parishads—those representatives will finally be accountable to you,” Tarique Rahman told the crowd.
He criticized the “dummy” elections of the past 15 years, stating that previous “so-called MPs” were inaccessible to the public, leaving local problems neglected.
A Call for Nationwide Victory
The BNP leader concluded by urging voters to spread the party’s message to their friends and relatives across the country. He maintained that a democratic government, elected by the people, is the only way to ensure security, employment, education, and healthcare for all.
The rally was presided over by Abdus Salam, head of the Dhaka-17 election steering committee, and Professor Farhad Halim Donar. Other prominent leaders, including BNP Standing Committee member Nazrul Islam Khan and Jagpa President Khandaker Lutfur Rahman, also addressed the gathering.
Tarique Rahman had formally launched his party’s election campaign on Thursday in Sylhet after visiting the shrines of Hazrat Shah Jalal (RA) and Hazrat Shah Paran (RA).
