PM-Elect Tarique Rahman Hails BNP Victory as Triumph of Democracy

In his first major address following the Bangladesh Nationalist Party's (BNP) landslide election victory, Acting Chairman and Prime Minister-Elect Tarique Rahman declared the win a victory for Bangladesh, democracy, and the people who sacrificed for it. Speaking to citizens and journalists, he stated that the freedom-loving people have restored true freedom and rights after more than one and a half decades, overcoming all obstacles to re-establish a parliament and government accountable through direct voting.

Tarique Rahman acknowledged the challenging inheritance from the previous authoritarian regime, including a fragile economy, weakened constitutional institutions, and deteriorating law and order. He congratulated all 51 participating political parties, including Jamaat-e-Islami, NCP, Islami Andolon Bangladesh, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam, and Gono Odhikar Parishad, emphasizing that political parties are beacons of democracy and urging both government and opposition to play responsible roles.

He extended special thanks to the interim government and Election Commission for conducting a free, fair, and peaceful election, as well as to judicial officials, public administration, armed forces, law enforcement, election officers, domestic and international media, and observers for their contributions.

Paying tribute to martyrs and injured from the 1971 War of Independence to the 2024 mass uprising, he prayed for their forgiveness and stated they will be remembered with deepest respect.

Tarique reaffirmed BNP's commitment to its 31-point state reform agenda, which formed the basis of the election manifesto, and to the July Charter despite notes of dissent on certain issues, promising gradual implementation of all pledges.

In a poignant moment, he noted the absence of the late Begum Khaleda Zia, describing her resolute fight against fascism until her last day and praying for her forgiveness.

Recalling BNP's founding by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, Tarique Rahman thanked party leaders, activists, and supporters for their steadfastness amid oppression and called for tireless efforts to improve citizens' lives.

Emphasizing post-election peace despite provocations, he instructed no victory processions and urged calm and vigilance to prevent unrest. He declared that peace and order must be maintained at any cost, wrongdoing will not be tolerated, and the rule of law will be equal for all citizens regardless of party, religion, race, or opinion. Tarique urged against turning election-related discord into revenge and called for collective efforts in combating corruption, maintaining law and order, and ensuring accountability.

Concluding, he sought cooperation from all democratic forces, expatriates, and citizens for building a safe, humane, and democratic Bangladesh, ending with "Allah Hafiz" and "Long live Bangladesh" and "Long live BNP".