Anti-democracy forces are still conspiring: Tarique Rahman

BNP's Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has called for vigilance, claiming that "anti-democracy forces" continue to conspire against the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus.

Speaking virtually at a rally commemorating National Revolution and Solidarity Day today (8 November), Tarique warned that "remnants of the deposed Awami League regime" are still active domestically and internationally in efforts to destabilise Bangladesh.

He said, "Anti-democracy conspiracies have not stopped yet. Conspirators are trying to thwart the interim government. The interim government cannot be allowed to fail."

Addressing the rally held in front of the BNP central office in Nayapaltan, Tarique urged the interim government to fulfil people's expectations by taking "effective steps."

The BNP leader asserted that 7 November 1975 was a historic moment when the nation distinguished its friends from foes, adding that the recent student-led uprising on 5 August 2024, similarly revealed enemies of Bangladesh.

He said, "If the forces supporting Bangladesh remain united, no one can jeopardise the country's independence."

In his speech, Tarique highlighted the importance of safeguarding the right to vote, underscoring that without direct voting rights, the people would continue to suffer under market syndicates.

"Until those who aspire to be representatives become dependent on the people's votes, people will not enjoy the benefits of democracy," he said, warning that fascism and autocracy could return to Bangladesh without free elections.

Also speaking at the rally, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir cautioned that although Sheikh Hasina has fled following the recent student-led uprising, her allies remain in Bangladesh and could "attack the country again if given the chance."

"BNP is the strongest political force in Bangladesh. On 7 November 1975, the Sepoy-Janata [soldier and civilian] uprising defeated fascism, and under Ziaur Rahman's leadership, Bangladesh stood against imperialism and safeguarded its sovereignty," he said.

Reflecting on recent events, he continued, "In 2024, we witnessed another uprising, this time led by students and the public. For 17 years, Sheikh Hasina imposed a mafia-like rule, plundering the country. Thanks to Allah, she has now fled due to the student uprising."

However, Fakhrul warned, "Even though Hasina has left, her allies are still here. If they get another chance, they will attack Bangladesh again."

The BNP leader further stated, "As in the past, we will confront any conspiracy that arises, Insha'Allah."

The rally, attended by BNP leaders and activists, commenced with Tarique's virtual address and his official inauguration of the procession around 3:32pm.

BNP leaders underscored the significance of National Revolution and Solidarity Day, marking the 1975 joint effort by soldiers and civilians to release then Chief of Army Staff Ziaur Rahman from confinement, which ultimately led to his ascent to power.

The BNP's commemoration of National Revolution Day serves as a reminder of its historical role in defending democracy, with Tarique Rahman affirming that millions of people joined the rally to safeguard national interests and individual rights in the face of ongoing political challenges.