People are flocking to Bell’s Park in Barisal on Wednesday to join BNP’s rally, where party chairman Tarique Rahman will deliver a speech during his first visit to the city in nearly 20 years.

BNP leaders and activists are arriving at the venue in processions from all 30 wards of Barisal city. Supporters are also coming from six districts and 44 upazilas.

Ziauddin Sikder, member secretary of Barishal Metropolitan BNP, said they are expecting record-breaking attendance at the rally. “Everyone is coming to hear Tarique Rahman’s direction in the struggle for democracy,” he said.

Supporters from outside the city are reaching Bell’s Park by buses and launches, while many are also travelling by engine-powered trawlers through river routes.

Akon Quddusur Rahman, BNP central joint organising secretary, said Tarique Rahman is scheduled to arrive in Barishal by helicopter around noon and will address the rally shortly after.

After the Barisal program, Tarique Rahman is expected to attend another BNP-organised rally in Faridpur.

Local BNP units said all preparations for the events have been completed.