The Acting Chairman of BNP Tarique Rahman has declared the clear political vision for the country as “I have a plan” for the people of Bangladesh, echoing the famous speech “I have a dream” phrase of USA civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. Addressing a mass reception organised by the BNP on the capital’s 300 Feet Road on Thursday afternoon, Rahman said his plan is aimed at protecting national interests, ensuring development and changing the fate of the people through democratic governance.
“I want to say today, standing on the soil of Bangladesh, as a member of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, that I have a plan for the people of my country and for my country,” he told a large gathering. He said the plan focuses on public welfare, national development and securing the future of citizens.
Rahman stressed that implementing the plan would require collective support. “To turn this plan into reality, I need the cooperation of every person present here and of all those across Bangladesh who stand for democracy,” he said, adding that with public backing the BNP would be able to fulfil its commitments.
Calling for prayers, the BNP leader urged people to seek divine guidance and support so that Bangladeshis could, through hard work, build the country they aspire to. He said national progress would be possible if unity, effort and moral responsibility guided future leadership.
Rahman also pledged that those entrusted with governing the country in the coming days would strive to uphold justice and fairness inspired by the principles of honesty and accountability. He called on supporters to commit themselves to ethical governance and public service.
Expressing gratitude for returning home, Rahman said he was thankful to the Almighty and to the people whose prayers enabled him to come back to his motherland after years abroad. “With your prayers, I have returned to my beloved country and stand among you today,” he said.
Recalling Bangladesh’s political history, Rahman said the nation was born in 1971 through the blood sacrifice of millions of martyrs and later defended at critical moments, including the November 7 uprising of 1975 and the mass movement of 1990 against authoritarian rule. He alleged that conspiracies against democracy continued despite these struggles.
Referring to recent events, he said people from all walks of life — students, farmers, workers, women and professionals — came together on August 5, 2024, to protect the country’s independence and sovereignty, regardless of political or social differences.
Rahman said Bangladeshis now want their voices heard and their democratic rights restored. “People want justice based on merit and fairness,” he said, adding that the time had come for collective nation-building.
He outlined a vision of an inclusive and secure Bangladesh where people of all regions and religions can live together in safety and dignity. “We want to build a Bangladesh that every mother dreams of — a safe country where women, men and children can leave their homes and return safely,” he said.
Highlighting social realities, Rahman noted that women make up half of the population, while millions are youths, children, persons with disabilities, farmers and workers. He said these groups have expectations from the state, and unity could help meet those aspirations.
He said the sacrifices of martyrs in 1971, victims of enforced disappearances and killings over the past 15 years, and the deaths of young protesters in 2024 must not be forgotten. “If we are to repay this debt of blood, we must build the Bangladesh they dreamed of,” he said.
Rahman also paid tribute to Osman Hadi, a young activist from the 2024 movement who was recently killed. He described Hadi as a martyr who wanted democracy and the restoration of political and economic rights. He said honouring such sacrifices requires building a democratic and just state.
Warning of ongoing conspiracies by what he described as agents of hegemonic forces, Rahman urged patience and restraint, especially among the younger generation. He said youths would lead the country in the future and must accept responsibility for strengthening democratic and economic foundations.
Calling for calm, Rahman said maintaining peace and order was essential. He urged political leaders and supporters to avoid provocation and remain disciplined. “At any cost, we must protect peace and stability in the country,” he said.
Rahman also sought prayers for his mother, former prime minister and BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia, saying he would visit her after the programme. He asked people to pray for her recovery, noting her lifelong dedication to the country and its people.
Explaining why he addressed the rally before going to the hospital, Rahman said he felt a duty to thank supporters across the country who stood by him. He called on citizens of all religions, professions and political identities to reject disorder and ensure safety for everyone.
Concluding his speech, Rahman reiterated his appeal for unity, patience and peace, urging people to work together to build a beautiful Bangladesh. “Together we will work, together we will build the Bangladesh we desire,” he said.
Earlier, Rahman arrived at the rally venue at 3:50pm, where BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir welcomed him on behalf of party leaders and activists.
Rahman returned to Bangladesh from the United Kingdom on Thursday after 17 years in exile. He landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka at around 11:40am, marking a significant political moment for the BNP and its supporters.
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