Tarique Rahman confident of forming govt alone

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has expressed confidence that his party will be able to form the next government independently following the upcoming national election.

In an exclusive interview with Deutsche Welle (DW), Tarique said he believes the BNP will secure a public mandate and form a single-party government. “We are confident that, InshaAllah, we will receive the people’s verdict and form the government on our own,” he said.

He, however, underscored the importance of a strong opposition for maintaining a balanced state structure.

Tarique voiced optimism about the credibility of the upcoming election, saying people expect a free and acceptable vote. He also described balancing election preparations with personal grief after returning home from 17 years in exile as his biggest challenge.

On women’s empowerment, the BNP chief said that if elected, his party would expand access to higher education for women, introduce a “family card” for homemakers, and take steps to ensure women’s employment opportunities and safe transportation.

Regarding foreign relations, Tarique said Bangladesh would maintain good ties with all countries, including India and China, as long as national interests are safeguarded. He added that the BNP would not compromise on any agreement contrary to the country’s interests.

He ruled out the possibility of forming a unity government with Jamaat-e-Islami, reiterating that the BNP is capable of forming the government alone and that a strong opposition is essential for political balance.

On enforced disappearances, killings and human rights violations, Tarique said victims deserve justice and pledged that a BNP government would ensure accountability through legal processes.