BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has said that the party seeks justice not through revenge but by implementing its 31-point reform plan to ensure peace and progress in the country.

Speaking as the chief guest at a workshop closing session on Wednesday (April 23) at Rangpur Shilpakala Academy, he said no BNP leader or activist has been spared from false cases and repression over the past 17 years. Still, the BNP aims to bring change through democratic means, not retaliation.

He said if BNP gets the opportunity to govern, it will focus on real development that improves people's lives rather than just infrastructure. "BNP has the ability and vision to bring positive changes to the country and ensure people’s well-being,” he said.

Tarique also warned of false propaganda against the party on social media. "Eight months ago, I alerted our leaders and activists about this invisible force becoming visible and gaining new allies. But BNP is capable of dealing with it. Our strength lies in unity on the ground," he said.

Highlighting future plans, he said BNP will make healthcare accessible at people’s doorsteps if it comes to power. Referring to former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, he said she made women’s education free and increased their representation in parliament. BNP now plans to raise reserved seats for women from 50 to 100.

On the Teesta issue, he said three crore people in northern Bangladesh depend on the river. "Past governments only politicized the issue without real solutions. We want to bring change to the lives of Teesta region people through development, not politics,” he said.

He also emphasized the need for modern education, including English and other languages, to prepare citizens for global job markets.

BDST: 1045 HRS, April 24, 2025
MSK