BNP chief Tarique Rahman calls for unity in country after victory in Bangladesh polls

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman today reiterated his call for national unity, peaceful conduct and the rule of law, outlining priorities for rebuilding the country following the party’s electoral victory.

Delivering a post-election speech before journalists at a Dhaka hotel, Tarique said the victory belongs to the people and pledged to work towards restoring institutions and improving citizens’ lives.

“This victory belongs to Bangladesh. This victory belongs to democracy. This victory belongs to the people who aspire to and have sacrificed for democracy. From today, we are all free, with the true essence of freedom and rights restored,” he said.

Call for unity and responsible politics

Tarique urged all political parties to remain united in the national interest, warning against divisions that could undermine democracy.

“Our paths and opinions may differ, but in the interest of the country, we must remain united. I firmly believe that national unity is our collective strength, while division is our weakness,” he said.

He said 51 political parties participated in the election, including Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, the NCP, Islami Andolan Bangladesh, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam and Gono Odhikar Parishad, and congratulated all participants regardless of the results.

“In a democratic state and political system, political parties are the true beacons of democracy. If both the government and the opposition play responsible roles from their respective positions, democracy will surely take institutional form in the country,” he said.

Challenges ahead

The BNP chief said the new government would begin its journey amid a fragile economy, weakened institutions, and a deteriorating law and order situation left by an authoritarian regime.

“With your spontaneous participation, after more than one and a half decades, a parliament and government accountable to the people through direct voting are being re-established in the country,” he said.

He also referred to the party’s 31-point reform agenda and its commitment to implement election promises gradually.

Gratitude to institutions and stakeholders

Tarique thanked the interim government, the Election Commission, members of the administration, armed forces, law enforcement agencies and election officials for conducting a free, fair and credible election.

He also acknowledged the role of domestic and international media and observers in strengthening electoral integrity.

Tribute to martyrs and Khaleda Zia

Recalling the country’s political struggles from the 1971 Liberation War to the 2024 mass uprising, Tarique paid tribute to those killed and injured in movements for democracy.

He also remembered former prime minister Khaleda Zia, saying her absence weighed heavily despite the moment of victory.

“In anticipation of such a democratic moment to establish the rights of the people in state and politics, she fought resolutely against fascism until the last day of her life,” he said.

Call for calm after election

Tarique urged BNP leaders and activists across the country to avoid any post-election violence or unrest.

“To ensure that no unpleasant incidents occur anywhere in post-election Bangladesh, despite many provocations, I call upon all BNP leaders and activists across the country to remain calm and vigilant,” he said.

He said he had instructed party members not to hold victory processions despite the landslide win.

“Our position is clear. Peace and order must be maintained at any cost. No wrongdoing or unlawful activity will be tolerated,” he said.

He added that attacks by the strong against the weak would not be accepted under any circumstances, regardless of political or religious identity.

Rule of law and rebuilding the nation

Tarique said establishing justice and the rule of law would be central to the new administration’s approach.

“Justice will be our guiding principle. If the rule of law is not established, all our efforts will be in vain,” he said, adding that the law must apply equally to all citizens.

He also called on citizens to help combat corruption, maintain law and order and ensure accountability so that Bangladesh could become a safe and humane nation.

On the journey towards ensuring a safe, humane and democratic Bangladesh, Tarique sought cooperation from all, regardless of political affiliation or opinion, before concluding his speech with thanks to democratic forces worldwide and expatriate Bangladeshis.