Bangla Press Desk: The current discourse surrounding the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its acting chairman Tarique Rahman is sharply divided into two contrasting narratives: one rooted in misinformation, and the other grounded in reality.
Both the party and its leadership have long been victims of sustained propaganda campaigns, carefully orchestrated by political adversaries both at home and abroad, with the aim of discrediting their achievements and intentions.
Since the 1/11 changeover, BNP leaders – most notably Tarique Rahman – have faced a relentless barrage of false narratives. Despite the fall of the fascist regime, this propaganda persists, unabated.
Although BNP and its leadership remain the subject of smear campaigns and fabricated claims by their political opponents, the party has often fallen short in effectively countering such disinformation. On several occasions, there has been an evident absence of initiative in clarifying their stance to the public.
Recently, opponents have attempted to portray BNP as being more interested in securing a path to power than in genuine state reform.
These detractors claim the party seeks elections merely to avoid diminishing popularity, is conspiring to revive the fascist Awami League.
However, such allegations bear little resemblance to reality.
In truth, BNP’s vision for reform long predates the recent political upheaval.
The party first outlined its reformist agenda in 2016, when its Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia introduced “Vision 2030”, presenting a comprehensive roadmap for state reform.
BNP’s commitment to national unity was also made clear during the 2018 general election, when it brought together leftist, rightist, and Islamist parties under one platform.Under Tarique Rahman’s leadership as acting chairman, BNP’s reformist drive gained further momentum.
BNP maintains that, had the previous regime been removed through a popular uprising, it would have implemented these reforms upon assuming power.
Despite operating under severe restrictions during the authoritarian Awami League era – when even media coverage of Tarique Rahman’s speeches was curtailed – BNP remained resolute. The 31-point reform proposal was publicly presented during this hostile period.
“Every leader and activist firmly believed that the people-backed movement would prevail. That’s why we placed our reform proposal two years ago – because we believed the autocratic regime would collapse,” said Tarique Rahman.
Engagement with the National Consensus Commission
However, the party does raise concerns over overly theoretical or untested ideas—particularly those which may infringe on civil liberties or cause governmental gridlock. BNP supports reforms that are pragmatic and sustainable.
The party backed 20 of 23 recommendations for judicial reform, 19 of 20 for the Anti-Corruption Commission, and half of the 26 proposed for public administration reform. No other party has articulated such a specific and structured vision for reform before the upcoming general election on 5 August.
The reality remains: the people now expect timely elections alongside actionable reforms. BNP alone appears aligned with that public expectation.
Seeking justice Against Awami League atrocities
BNP endured unprecedented repression under the Awami League’s autocratic rule. Thousands of BNP members have been killed, forcibly disappeared, or entangled in politically motivated cases.
The party has consistently demanded accountability, including the trial of Sheikh Hasina and her associates for crimes including genocide.
Standing firm against India’s big-brother approach
Tarique Rahman has reaffirmed BNP’s desire for a respectful and equitable relationship with neighbouring India. He has called on India to return Sheikh Hasina to Bangladesh to face justice.
BNP’s historic long march to Teesta was a bold protest against India’s water aggression and a demand for rightful access to shared river resources.
Responsible politics and post-uprising stability
Following the recent mass uprising, BNP has played a stabilising role in national politics, supporting the interim government in its efforts to maintain order. Despite continued provocation, BNP has refrained from retaliatory rhetoric.
On 5 August 2024, Tarique Rahman and senior BNP leaders issued clear instructions to party members: avoid vengeance and prevent violence.
BNP activists have actively neutralised efforts to incite unrest, including resisting provocations disguised as protest movements. BNP’s labour wing, Sramik Dal, has been instrumental in safeguarding the stability of key sectors, notably the garment industry.
Zero tolerance for internal misconduct
Since 5 August, BNP has taken firm disciplinary action against misconduct within its ranks. Over 1,000 members have been expelled, with several hundred receiving show-cause notices for extortion, land grabbing, and other misdeeds.
Tarique Rahman has drawn a clear line: “We can no longer tolerate those who exploit the party for personal gain. I urge every soldier of Ziaur Rahman and Khaleda Zia – do not engage in actions that damage the party’s reputation.”
Charting a new political era
In the wake of public calls for a new political order, BNP has pledged to reshape the country’s politics to reflect democratic values and prevent the return of fascism.
Tarique Rahman has urged party workers to abandon showmanship – eschewing motorcades, banners, and posters – and instead focus on earning the public’s trust through humility and service. Source: DS
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