In a historic televised address to the nation, BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman expressed sincere regret for “unintentional” mistakes made during the party’s previous tenures and vowed to return the ownership of the state to its citizens.
Speaking via Bangladesh Television (BTV) on Monday night, just days ahead of the February 12 national elections, the BNP chief outlined a vision for a self-reliant, humane, and inclusive Bangladesh.
A Call for Political and Economic Empowerment
Tarique Rahman emphasized that the upcoming polls are not merely a change of power but a crucial opportunity for citizens to reclaim their lost political rights.
“The February 12 election is a major opportunity to restore the lost political power of every citizen,” he stated. “We have designed our plans to ensure the political and economic empowerment of the people, targeting every sector and profession.”
Apology for Past Mistakes
In a rare move, the BNP Chairman addressed the party’s past governance, acknowledging that errors had occurred.
- Recognition of Errors: He admitted to “unintentional” mistakes made while the party was in power.
- A New Chapter: He expressed deep regret to the nation, stating that the party has learned from those experiences and is committed to moving forward with a corrected approach.
- Future Promise: He sought the public’s support to build a safe Bangladesh based on the lessons of the past.
Key Pledges: Economy and Social Safety
Highlighting the BNP’s election manifesto, Tarique Rahman announced several landmark initiatives aimed at low-income families, youth, and women:
- Family Cards: Introduction of “Family Cards” in the name of female heads of household for nearly 40 million families, providing 2,500 BDT monthly or equivalent food assistance.
- Employment: A target to create 10 million new jobs by curbing money laundering and reforming financial sectors.
- Farmers’ Support: Launching “Farmers’ Cards” to provide direct subsidies for seeds, fertilizer, and financial aid.
- Education Reform: Technical and vocational education will be mandatory from the secondary level, with a provision to learn a third foreign language alongside Bengali and English.
Governance and Security
Tarique Rahman paid tribute to the martyrs of the democratic movement, particularly referencing the sacrifices made during the 2024 mass uprising. He vowed that “not a single drop of blood would go in vain.”
He further promised a merit-based administration where recruitment and promotions would be free from political interference. On the issue of communal harmony, he stated:
“BNP wants to build a Bangladesh where every citizen—whether Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Christian, believer or non-believer—remains safe.”
Final Appeal to Voters
Concluding his emotional address, the BNP Chairman urged the youth to cast their first vote for the ‘Paddy Sheaf’ (Dhaner Sheer) symbol.
“Take responsibility for the candidates on February 12, and from February 13, your elected representatives will take responsibility for you,” he concluded.
