Hidden forces have emerged as new oppressors: Tarique Rahman

BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman has stated that individuals from hidden organisations have emerged as new oppressors. He said the people recognise a political party by its 'hidden' identity, and in Bangladesh, they have appeared in the form of new oppressors.

He made these remarks as the chief guest at an election rally held at the historic Bells Park ground in Barishal on Wednesday afternoon, January 4.

Tarique Rahman said, "For the last few days, I have been seeing news in various newspapers that those who have emerged as new oppressors, whom the people of Bangladesh know as 'secret,' their people are printing fake seals in various places. We are hearing that they are printing ballot papers at their known presses, which they will carry in their pockets."

"Not only that, they are going to various places and taking NID numbers and bKash numbers from innocent mothers and sisters. This secret group, these oppressors, are saying they will establish an honest people's rule. But, my brothers, you are printing fake ballots before the election, your people are already taking NID and bKash numbers from mothers and sisters before the election. You are starting with unethical work from the very first step, you are trying to influence people's votes with unethical work. Can those whose voting process begins unethically provide an honest people's rule? No, they cannot," he added.

He further stated, "After insulting mothers and sisters, they say they did not do it. They are saying their ID was hacked. But experts are saying their ID was not hacked. When they were caught, they started telling various lies."

The BNP chairperson said that Bangladesh will run based on the people's mandate. He added that one cannot expect self-respect from a party whose leaders do not respect mothers and sisters.

Earlier, around 12 pm, he landed by helicopter at the outer field of Barishal Stadium. He returned to Barishal after a gap of two decades. After disembarking from the helicopter, Tarique Rahman was welcomed by top leaders of the Barishal division and district. Security was strengthened by the administration due to his arrival. Police, BGB, and other law enforcement members are maintaining strict surveillance in and around the field and surrounding areas.

Candidates from the BNP and its allied parties from 21 constituencies in the Barishal division were present at the gathering. A large crowd of leaders and activists gathered at the rally venue to catch a glimpse of their beloved leader.

BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman's presence on stage marked the beginning of the main proceedings of the much-discussed election rally. A continuous flow of leaders and activists still fills the ground, centred around Tarique Rahman's visit to Barishal after a long 20-year gap.

Party sources indicated that candidates from the BNP and its alliance from all 21 parliamentary constituencies in the Barishal division are present at this rally.