Development to begin day after election victory: Tarique Rahman

BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman has said development work would begin the day after the party is elected, with priority given to reducing farmers’ costs and improving transport links, particularly rail connectivity to Dhaka.

Addressing an election rally at the Etim Maidan in Naogaon town on Thursday evening (January 30), he said greater use of railways would help farmers transport produce to the capital at lower cost and make travel to Dhaka easier for ordinary people.

Tarique Rahman criticised what he described as a lack of meaningful change over the past 16 years, alleging that “mega projects” had led to “mega corruption,” while rural areas remained neglected.

He said BNP’s focus would be on improving the livelihoods of rural communities, ensuring public safety, and empowering women.

Outlining proposals for the agriculture sector, he said farmers would be issued agriculture cards in phases to ensure timely access to seeds and fertiliser, strengthen their economic base and help them cope with natural disasters.

On employment, he said emphasis would be placed on skills development, vocational training and the IT sector to create jobs for educated youth.

He also said a future BNP government would introduce monthly honorariums for imams and muezzins.

Calling on voters to support BNP’s electoral symbol, the sheaf of paddy, in the February 12 election, Tarique Rahman urged party supporters to remain vigilant to protect votes, referring to past incidents of enforced disappearances and killings.

The rally was organised by Naogaon district BNP and attended by senior party leaders and candidates from Naogaon and neighbouring districts.