BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman today said people are the sole source of all power, reaffirming that his party’s politics, policies, and future plans are centred on public interest.

“Our goal is the people, our purpose is the people. If we can change the fate of the people, we can move the country forward,” he said, addressing a divisional rally at Bells Park in Barishal.

Tarique said the country could only progress if citizens’ lives improved alongside national development.

He urged people from all walks of life to come forward for nation-building, while also asking them to remain alert about the activities of a particular political group.

Addressing party leaders and activists, he said, “From the [February] 13th onward, and for the next five years, you must remain at the feet of the people. We have all seen what happens when a political force loses the backing and support of the people.”

Referring to the post-August 5, 2024, political situation, he said expectations had been raised that authoritarian practices would end, but those hopes were not fulfilled.

He alleged that individuals from a “covert ['gupto'] political force” had instead emerged as new oppressors in national politics.

Highlighting women’s role in the economy, Tarique said both men and women contribute equally to agriculture, while the country’s garment sector is sustained by the labour of “our mothers and sisters”.

Criticising remarks allegedly made by a leader of a political group, he said a party that disrespects women cannot be expected to deliver dignity or progress for the country.

“Just two days ago, the leader of this group publicly used a derogatory and humiliating term referring to Bangladeshi women. A party whose leaders and activists lack even the minimum respect for women of their own country cannot bring honour to Bangladesh,” he said.

Calling for collective efforts in development, Tarique stressed the need to excavate thousands of canals and water bodies to improve flood control and water management.

On youth employment, he said vocational training and region-specific industrial planning were necessary to create alternative job opportunities.

Addressing farmers, he said agricultural loans of up to Tk 10,000 would be waived and farmer cards introduced to ensure dignity and institutional support for the farming community.

He also accused a political party of spreading misinformation and engaging in unethical practices, urging people to remain vigilant so that their rights were not “hijacked”.

If BNP comes to power, he said, the party would introduce family cards, expand healthcare services, and strengthen social welfare programmes.

Outlining development plans for the Barishal region, Tarique mentioned the proposed Bhola-Barishal bridge, gas-based industrialisation, employment generation, and measures to address river erosion.

He concluded by calling on citizens to unite in building the nation through people-centred politics and inclusive development.