Acting Chairman of BNP Tarique Rahman, stated, “On January 7, the country's people responded to the call of BNP and other anti-government political parties boycotting the vote. This marks a significant achievement, one that must be upheld. Trust must be preserved.”

He made these remarks on Thursday while speaking as the chief guest at the Iftar Mahfil and Prayer Ceremony organised by Khulna District and Metropolis of the party.

He said, “Today, we convene when it's evident to the populace that the ruling puppet government hasn't attained power through the people's mandate. They openly admit their dependency on some specific states for their ascent to power. Their acknowledgement of indebtedness to foreign powers and their self-brokering attest to their servility. Conversely, those present at this Iftar represent the dignified, alongside individuals from every corner of the country.”

Tarique Rahman emphasised, “On January 7, what was dubbed as a ‘dummy election’ took place. The mockery surrounding this election has been widely recognised. 62 political parties, including BNP, urged the populace not to take part in this dummy election. The people of Bangladesh heeded this call and refrained from participating. Across the globe, reports in newspapers and magazines highlighted the people’s refusal to engage in the elections; instead, they remained at home. It’s evident that the nationwide support for the leaders’ appeal from these 62 parties resonated with the common people. Ordinary citizens recognise the sacrifices made by leaders and activists from various political parties, including BNP, to uphold the people's demands.”

He remarked, “A minister has openly admitted that opposition party leaders, including those from BNP, have been detained merely for advocating fair elections. They would be ousted from power. In the Khulna division, we witnessed the brutal treatment of BNP leaders and workers. Opposition figures have faced relentless persecution for one sole reason: to uphold people's right to vote, to establish fundamental rights. However, the people have unequivocally demonstrated their support for our cause.”

The Acting Chairman emphasised, “The people of our nation have bestowed upon us a great responsibility, entrusting us with their faith and trust. We must honour this trust diligently. All opposition parties, including BNP, must unite to reclaim their rights.”

Concerning the judicial system, he highlighted, “The glaring example of the politicisation of our country's judiciary lies in the treatment of opposition party leaders present here. The judiciary's actions purportedly in the name of justice have led to grave injustices against opposition figures and activists. Take, for instance, the tragic case of the journalist couple Sagar-Runi’s murder – what progress has been made? Millions of our citizens are being denied access to justice.”

Tarique Rahman further stated, “The most pressing threat we face today is the loss of lives at our borders, yet the incumbent regime exhibits a conspicuous lack of courage to voice protest. They are unable to do so. Those enslaved can never muster the courage to speak out against their masters or protest against injustices.”