We all are free from today: Tarique

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Saturday declared that the people of Bangladesh are “all free from today,” hailing the party’s triumph in the national election as a victory for democracy and the citizens. 
Speaking at a post-poll press conference in Dhaka, he urged the nation to rise above divisions and work together to build a safe, accountable, and humane democratic Bangladesh.
Recalling the collective struggle that preserved democracy in the past, Tarique emphasised the need to focus now on curbing corruption, strengthening law and order, and ensuring accountability to the people. 
He called for cooperation from all political parties, differing opinions, democratic forces worldwide, expatriate Bangladeshis, and freedom-loving citizens at home to make this mission a success.
“The freedom-loving, pro-democracy people have once again brought victory to the BNP. This victory belongs to Bangladesh. This victory belongs to democracy. This victory belongs to the people who aspire to, and have sacrificed for, democracy. From today, we are all free, with the true essence of freedom and rights restored,” he said.
He congratulated the citizens for overcoming obstacles and paving the way for the re-establishment of democracy through the national election.
“We are about to begin our journey in a situation marked by a fragile economy left behind by the authoritarian regime, weakened constitutional and statutory institutions, and a deteriorating law and order situation,” Tarique noted, adding that, after more than one and a half decades, a parliament and government accountable to the people through direct voting are being restored.
Warning against any attempt to reinstate autocracy, he stressed the importance of national unity.

Tarique outlined the broad political context, noting that a total of 51 parties took part in the 13th parliamentary election, including BNP, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, National Citizen Party (NCP), Islami Andolon Bangladesh, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam, and Gono Odhikar Parishad.
“I extend my sincere congratulations to every political party that participated in the national election, irrespective of the results,” he said, adding that political parties are the true beacons of democracy in a democratic state.
He appealed for collective responsibility from both government and opposition to institutionalise democracy:
“I call upon all democratic political parties that participated in the election. Your ideas and perspectives are important to us in the nation-building process. Our paths and opinions may differ, but in the interest of the country, we must remain united. I firmly believe that national unity is our collective strength, while division is our weakness.” 
Acknowledging the smooth conduct of the polls, Tarique extended special thanks to the interim government and the Election Commission:
“For this, I extend special thanks to the interim government and the Election Commission. Your contribution to holding this long-awaited election will be remembered in the history of democracy.”
He also praised judicial officials, members of the public administration, the armed forces, law enforcement agencies, and all election staff for their roles in conducting the election successfully.

“I thank you all sincerely,” said Tarique, who is set to assume the office of prime minister in line with his party’s decision.
The BNP chairman highlighted the contribution of domestic and international media and observers in strengthening electoral integrity.
“My heartfelt greetings to you as well,” he said.
Reflecting on the sacrifices of countless individuals from the War of Independence in 1971 to the mass uprising in 2024, Tarique paid tribute to martyrs and prayed for their forgiveness:
“Their courage, blood, and sacrifices have paved the path toward today’s democratic Bangladesh. I express my deepest respect. I pray to Almighty Allah for their forgiveness,” he said.
He outlined the party’s framework for state repair through consultations with democratic forces and citizens, known as the 31-point agenda, which formed the basis of BNP’s election manifesto.
“At the same time, BNP signed the July Charter with a note of dissent on certain issues. We are committed to the people and, Insha’Allah, we will gradually implement every promise we have made,” Tarique said.
Acknowledging the joy among BNP leaders, activists, and supporters, he also remembered the absence of the party’s national leader, Begum Khaleda Zia:
“In anticipation of such a democratic moment to establish the rights of the people, Begum Khaleda Zia fought resolutely against fascism until the last day of her life. On matters of national and public interest, she was always firm and steadfast. We pray to Almighty Allah for her forgiveness,” he said.
Tarique recalled the legacy of BNP founder Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, who proclaimed the country’s independence in 1971, emphasising that the people’s trust and love must now be repaid through united efforts to improve citizens’ quality of life.
“I thank the BNP leaders, activists, and supporters across the country. Despite severe oppression and persecution, you did not leave the streets. You remained steadfast in the struggle to establish democracy,” he said, urging everyone to play responsible roles in rebuilding the nation.
Highlighting the calm in post-election Bangladesh, Tarique instructed BNP leaders and activists to remain vigilant and not engage in unnecessary processions:
“Even after achieving a landslide victory, we have celebrated our victory by offering thanks to Almighty Allah. Peace and order must be maintained at any cost. No wrongdoing or unlawful activity will be tolerated. Regardless of party, religion, race, or differing opinions, under no circumstances will attacks by the strong against the weak be accepted,” he said.

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He emphasised that justice and the rule of law must guide governance, noting that disputes arising during the election should not evolve into politics of revenge or retaliation.
During a question-and-answer session with journalists, Tarique addressed issues including corruption, law and order, the economy, and foreign policy, reiterating the party’s commitments under its 31-point agenda.
Responding to Khaled Muhiuddin of Thikana News on whether BNP had “engineered” the polls, Tarique said: “Convincing the people is our election engineering. We have repeatedly visited their doors and spoken to them. Convincing them is the key to our success.”
On foreign policy and regional cooperation, Tarique pledged to uphold national interests and revitalise SAARC through consultations with member states, honouring the vision of BNP founder Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman.

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