Various attempts underway to block BNP victory in elections: Tarique Rahman

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman said that if elections were held now, the people would cast their valuable votes to elect the BNP. He said, “There are various efforts underway to block BNP’s victory.”

He made the remarks on Thursday (August 21) during a Janmashtami greeting event at Dhaka’s IEB Auditorium with Hindu community leaders, joining virtually from London.

Tarique Rahman said, “The path of democracy in the country is not risk-free. Similar to the fallen autocratic government, there are tendencies today to block BNP. If people’s voting rights are restricted in any way or through conditions in the election process, it could be dangerous for the democratic interests of the country.”

He said, “Since the election announcement in February, various statements and conditions have been confusing the people. Over the past 15 years, the Awami League has created obstacles for BNP to contest in elections. Currently, even among the allies of the anti-fascist movement, tendencies to block BNP’s victory are visible.”

Tarique Rahman further said, “To those imposing new conditions, I would say: face politics with politics. Don’t block the people from exercising their right to vote in order to stop BNP’s victory.”

He urged the people, “Any political party or individual wishing to be represented in the National Parliament must face the people and earn their trust.”

Referring to the proposed proportional representation (PR) voting system, he said, “Holding elections under this system is not suitable for the country. People will not know which individual or party is being elected. While the PR system works in many countries, it is not suitable to implement in Bangladesh now, considering our geographical, political, and socio-economic realities. It is essential for people to have a clear understanding of their elected representatives.”

Tarique Rahman also addressed the safety of minority communities, saying, “Exploiting Hindu followers for party interests can pose a threat to political stability and democratic values. In the past, attacks on minorities, even if not motivated by religion, were driven by political agendas and illegal gains. Everyone must stay vigilant about this.”