BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said that if his party forms the government, priority will be given to establishing large agro-based industries in Thakurgaon to create employment opportunities for local residents.

Speaking at election street meetings in Chandipur and Goreya of Salandar Union in Thakurgaon Sadar Upazila on Thursday afternoon, he said the district is one of the comparatively poorer regions of Bangladesh and currently lacks large industries.

“If we are able to form the government, we will place the highest importance on setting up large agro-based industries in this region. This will create significant employment opportunities for our sons and daughters,” Fakhrul said.

Describing agriculture as the main driver of development in the area, he noted that farmers often fail to receive fair prices for their produce. Referring to the recent drop in potato prices, he said excessive production was a key factor behind the decline.

“In such cases, agricultural forecasting is essential. If farmers are seen leaning toward excessive cultivation of a particular crop, the agriculture department must issue advance warnings. Otherwise, overproduction will lead to market instability,” he added.

Recalling past experiences, Fakhrul said local residents had shown him great affection during the 2001 election campaign by making garlands with money saved from selling eggs, poultry, and vegetables.

“I have not forgotten that debt of love. I have always tried to work for you. In past elections, I could not even speak freely—I could only weep. This time, an opportunity has been created, and we must make use of it,” he said.

Addressing the crowd, he said the people of the area have known him since 1986, when he served as municipal chairman, and claimed that no one could accuse him of betraying the trust of the people.

Speaking about his personal life, Fakhrul said he had financed his political career by selling ancestral land. “The car I use in Dhaka is 20 years old. The car I arrived in today is not even mine—it belongs to a supporter,” he said.

Urging voters to exercise their rights, he said many had been unable to vote for years but now had an opportunity to do so.

“If you vote for the sheaf of paddy, I will be able to go to Parliament and work for you. I am a man of action. We do not want to survive on charity; we want to live by working,” he said.

He added that significant development was needed in Thakurgaon and emphasized the importance of training women and youth to create sustainable employment opportunities.

Local leaders and activists of the BNP and its affiliated organizations, along with a large number of residents, attended the street meetings.