Acting Chairman of BNP, Tarique Rahman, posed the question, "Among the people of our nation, there lingers a crucial question—can we safeguard the hard-won freedom we cherish? Is the liberty obtained through the sacrifice of millions now endangered? As we approach Independence Day, our neighbouring country has delivered to us the grim news of two lives lost."

He articulated these sentiments during a discussion meeting arranged by the UK BNP commemorating the 54th Independence Day.

Tarique Rahman highlighted, "In a recent report by the United Nations, it's revealed that 43 per cent of households in Bangladesh rely on loans for sustenance. With a population of 200 million, this translates to 90 million individuals being affected. Comparatively, UK's population stands at 70 million. Shockingly, Bangladesh has more people burdened by debt than the entire population of the UK. On the occasion of our nation's 54th Independence Day, we must reflect: is it truly an achievement that 90 million people in our country are struggling to make ends meet under the weight of loans?"

Tarique Rahman remarked, "Presently, the government narrates tales of development. However, those who find themselves reliant on loans for their livelihood are the ones truly questioning this narrative of development. Today, the educated youth of our nation are compelled to seek opportunities abroad due to the lack of employment opportunities domestically. If true development existed within our country, our youth wouldn't feel the need to depart. While a select few prosper within the facade of governance, many young individuals are tragically perishing in their pursuit of a better life overseas. Have you ever encountered news of youths from neighbouring Nepal, Bhutan, or other nations meeting a similar fate at sea? This distressing reality seems exclusive to Bangladesh."

He expressed that the dummy government has ruined the nation, with every sector suffering. The populace is in distress; ordinary citizens, trusting in the security of banks, have deposited their hard-earned wealth, only to witness banks plunging into insolvency. Allegedly, government officials are embezzling funds and funnelling them overseas.

Regarding pre-election disclosure by the candidates, Tarique Rahman noted, "The scrutiny of affidavits submitted by candidates during the previous interim elections of 2014, 2018, and 2024 has been publicised in the media. The populace was astounded to witness candidates' wealth soaring exponentially. Meanwhile, citizens endure hardships, with youth facing unemployment, families drowning in debt, uncertain of their next meal, and resorting to breaking their fast with mere water. The suffering is exacerbated by government officials' alleged plundering of public funds."

In reference to the UK, he remarked, "The United Kingdom stands witness to the influx of illicitly obtained funds from our country. Accounts detailing the assets of a corrupt government have surfaced, revealing the vast extent of this criminal enterprise. The magnitude of this mafia is staggering; how else could someone procure hundreds of houses? Perhaps one or two could be justified, but the scale of this wealth accumulation is beyond comprehension."

Observing the state of the country's judicial system, "I noted that the Chief Justice, along with several other judges, travelled to the United States last Saturday. They were welcomed at the airport by Awami League leaders. In such circumstances, it becomes evident how much justice the people can expect from that country's judiciary. The judiciary, administration, and economy have all been decimated."

Regarding the new curriculum, he remarked, "Parents, teachers, and prominent figures in civil society have all voiced their protest against it. The implementation of this curriculum could potentially breed a spineless future generation. University and college hostels have transformed into torture cells under the control of Chhatra League. The tragic death of Abrar at BUET campus is a stark example. Educational institutions are becoming increasingly difficult for female students, with reports emerging almost daily of their harassment. The underlying cause of all this is pushing the country towards the brink of destruction. What remains to be safeguarded is our independence and sovereignty. Some individuals are apprehensive about whether we have truly succeeded in preserving our independence and sovereignty."

Tarique Rahman emphasised, "On the auspicious occasion of Independence Day on March 26, our neighbouring country presented us with two deceased individuals. Whether their bodies were returned remains uncertain. These tragic deaths serve as grim reminders. The ruling regime lacks trust and faith in the populace, as evidenced by their actions over the past 14, 18, and 24 years. If they truly believed in the people, they wouldn't strip them of their voting rights or silence their voices. Before and after the sham elections, government officials, including Awami League Secretary General Obaidul Quader, hinted at the reliance on an unnamed neighbouring country for their ascent to power. They wouldn't have attained power without external assistance. One of their ministers returned from a neighbouring country with the directive to cling to power at any cost. This starkly demonstrates the government's lack of confidence in its people, resorting instead to seeking help from elsewhere."

He stated, "BNP has always placed its trust in the power of the party and the people of our nation. The evidence of people's trust in us is evident in the farcical elections. We distributed leaflets urging citizens not to participate in the January 7 elections, citing the country's state. On that day, in response to the call from all opposition parties, including BNP, the people of our nation refrained from casting their votes. The greatest asset of a major political party lies in the trust, achievements, and beliefs of the people. The fact that people did not turn out to vote signifies the confidence gained by all opposition parties. They boycotted the Awami League. However, it's imperative not to become complacent merely because people appear to be on your side."

He asserted, "Awami League has transformed into a servant of neighbouring countries, acting as their broker. Today, the esteemed individuals of our nation are being denied the respect they rightfully deserve across every sector. The battle we're currently engaged in transcends party politics; it's about the very existence of Bangladesh and its people. To safeguard the reputation of Bangladesh, individuals from all walks of life must unite. The current struggle within the nation concerns every citizen."