Dhaka, Jan 10 (.) BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman said that differences in opinion should not escalate into acts of conflict, and must be resolved via dialogue between the parties.
Referring to the July Uprising killings, Rahman told newspersons, “The nation has seen the consequences of vengeance or retaliation on 5 August 2024. Even if there are differences of opinion, they must be reduced through discussion. Differences should not escalate to the level of conflict.
“We are facing tough challenges. The democratic process must be kept alive at all costs. We had problems, we have problems, but we do not want to go back to the time before 5 August 2024. Therefore, putting aside differences, everyone must work together.”
Remarking, that since his return to Bangladesh, he had travelled to various places and visited various localities, meeting up with lots of different people, the new generation he felt was one which needed hope and direction more than retribution, he said “Not only have the new generation, but every generation expected guidance.
“People have many expectations from those involved in politics. Even if it’s not possible to fulfil all expectations, if politicians work to protect the country’s independence and sovereignty, it will be possible to lead the nation on the right path.”
Responding to a question from a female journalist about women’s safety, the new BNP chief said that safety was needed by everyone, not just women, adding “Last year, about seven thousand people died in road accidents, which is abnormal. The numbers vary from year to year. Politicians should think deeply about why such incidents are happening.”
“I am a worker of a political party. From 22 January, we will go to the people with all our electoral campaigns. If the BNP comes to state power through public vote in the future, we will solve all the people’s problems, taking everyone’s criticism into account,” he told reporters.
Stating that if the country cannot progress without generating employment, then all its achievements would be underdone, describing what the BNP would do if it wins, he outlined various plans to improve the living standards of citizens, including women, farmers, expatriates, and the youth.
BNP Secretary General, Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, later speaking to media associates said “Today, in a difficult time, our leader Tarique Rahman has returned home from abroad. The dream of building this country that he showed us from afar has made the entire nation much more hopeful today.
“Their expectation is that, after many years, under Tarique Rahman’s leadership, we will be able to build Bangladesh as a liberal democratic state.”
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