BNP leaders never went hiding, missing democratic opportunity betrays martyrs: Tarique Rahman

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has declared that BNP leaders and activists did not adopt "hidden or dormant" forms in the name of strategy, asserting that no conspiracy will succeed in suppressing the party. He warned that failing to establish a democratic government at this juncture would be a grave injustice to the martyrs of the 1971 Liberation War, the 1990 uprising, and the victims of the last 16 years of oppression.

The BNP Chairman made these remarks as the chief guest during a poignant exchange meeting with the families of victims of enforced disappearance, extrajudicial killing, and torture during the Awami League's tenure. The event was held today, Saturday (January 17), at the Bangabandhu International Conference Center (BICC) in Dhaka.

A Debt to the Martyrs

Addressing the emotional gathering, Tarique Rahman emphasized that the state cannot evade its responsibility toward those who were abducted or killed. He pledged that if the BNP forms the government, roads across the nation will be named after these "martyrs of democracy."

"If we miss the opportunity to form a responsible democratic state and government this time, it will be a severe injustice to the sacrifices of the martyrs of 1971, the 1990 anti-autocracy movement, and those who faced disappearance and torture over the last 16 years, including the thousands crippled in the recent mass uprising," he stated.

Vigilance Against Conspiracies

Tarique Rahman dismissed claims that the party's rank and file had retreated under pressure. He noted that BNP activists have campaigned against fascism for years, with one family member stepping out onto the streets as soon as another was persecuted.

He warned of ongoing efforts to derail the democratic transition:

• Conspiracies: He urged the public to remain vigilant against those seeking to block the democratic path using various excuses.

• Resilience: He asserted that the BNP has maintained its presence and will continue to fight for a government that reflects the people's aspirations.

Concerns Regarding the Election Commission

The BNP Chairman also touched upon the current political environment, noting that the party is unable to disclose its detailed "future Bangladesh" plan due to specific Election Commission (EC) constraints. While he described some of the EC’s recent stances as "controversial," he emphasized that the BNP intends to show "patience" as a responsible political organization.

"A democratic government is essential to ensure justice for every injustice through the legal system," he concluded, reiterating that only an elected administration can truly provide closure to the families of the oppressed.