Tarique Rahman Calls for Unity to Prevent the Emergence of a Covert Autocracy

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman urged democratic forces to unite, warning that failure could lead to a covert dictatorship.

Speaking virtually at the Comilla South District BNP Conference, held after 16 years, he stressed that Bangladesh’s interests must come first and called on party leaders to focus on action over rhetoric.

He highlighted the conference slogan: Unity, People, and Reconstruction, urging activists to reach every home with the message of standing by the people despite hardships faced.

BNP Standing Committee member Salauddin Ahmed criticized the ruling Awami League’s record, citing massive financial misappropriation since independence and emphasizing the need for justice regarding the July uprising, where 1,400 people were killed. He also condemned the politicization of religion, affirming Islam should not be used for political gains and urging preservation of the liberation struggle’s spirit.

The conference was inaugurated by BNP Vice Chairman Barkat Ullah Bulu and included other senior party figures. Zakaria Taher Sumon was named Comilla South District BNP president, and Ashiqur Rahman Mahmud Wasim was appointed general secretary.