Allah is the owner of everything, but some people are trying to buy votes by selling tickets to paradise, BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has said.

"They are deceiving people even before the elections; everyone knows what they will do afterward. Those claiming to support certain leaders—back in 1971, the people of this country already saw them," he said at BNP’s first election rally at the Alia Madrasa ground in Sylhet on Thursday.

Urging vigilance against conspiracies, Tarique Rahman said: “I have noticed in recent days that some quarters are plotting schemes. Postal ballot fraud is happening in several countries, including in the Middle East. Those who fled the country and engaged in vote rigging before are attempting similar conspiracies again. We must remain alert. If we stay united, all conspiracies can be countered.”

Speaking in support of the Sheaf of Paddy symbol, Tarique Rahman said: “If BNP comes to power with the people’s support, it will govern the country with justice, like Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).”

Highlighting employment and agricultural development, he added: “We want to make mothers and sisters economically self-reliant. We will create jobs for the unemployed and stand by our farmer brothers. If the Sheaf of Paddy wins on the 12th, canal-digging programmes will resume across the country.”

Through this rally in Sylhet, BNP formally launched its campaign for the 13th National Parliamentary Election.

The historic Alia Madrasa ground was packed with party leaders, activists, and supporters. The rally began at 10am, with workers arriving since Wednesday night. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and other party leaders were present.

Tarique Rahman left for the rally at 11:30am.

His first visit to Sylhet in 21 years has sparked widespread enthusiasm among BNP leaders and activists.