Cox’s Bazar, Dec 05 (V7N) – BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed has expressed strong optimism that the upcoming national election will be free, fair and internationally recognized. He made the remarks on Thursday during the third day of his election campaign at a roadside gathering in his constituency, Cox’s Bazar-1 (Chakaria-Pekua).

Salahuddin Ahmed said the people of Bangladesh have long struggled and sacrificed for democracy, and this time they will have the opportunity to vote in a free environment. He noted that the upcoming national election will be one of the most crucial and defining moments in the country’s political history. After nearly 17 years of democratic movements and sacrifices, he said citizens will finally be able to exercise their voting rights freely, paving the way to restore civil rights, human rights, constitutional order and democratic governance.

He recalled that the BNP announced its 31-point reform agenda in 2023, aiming to rebuild the state structure, uphold democratic principles and ensure economic freedom and prosperity for the people. Salahuddin outlined several commitments the BNP plans to implement if elected, including the introduction of an agriculture card to help farmers obtain loans and agricultural supplies at fair prices, and a health card to ensure access to essential medical services. A family card system would provide rice, lentils and other essential commodities on a regular basis, initially covering 5 to 10 million families with the goal of gradually reducing poverty and building a poverty-free society.

Referring to Begum Khaleda Zia’s “Food for Education” initiative, the BNP leader emphasized that creating employment opportunities for educated youth remains a top priority. He pledged that a BNP government would generate employment for 10 to 15 million young people within one to one and a half years.

Salahuddin also addressed concerns over the salt industry in Pekua and Maheshkhali, criticizing the approval of salt imports that, he said, harms local producers. He assured voters that he would directly raise these concerns with the relevant authorities to protect the livelihoods of salt farmers.

During his visit, he met families affected by a recent fire in Mangnamar Purbo Kul Ronginkhal and provided financial assistance. He reminded the crowd that the BNP not only makes promises but has a proven record of fulfilling them.

His wife, former Member of Parliament Advocate Hasina Ahmed, along with local BNP leaders including Upazila BNP President Bahadur Shah, General Secretary Iqbal Hossain, Organizing Secretary Mosleh Uddin, Jubo Dal Convener Kamran Jadid Mukut, Swechchhasebak Dal Convener Ehsan Ullah and Krishak Dal Convener Abu Siddique Roni, were also present at the event.

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