Dhaka, Nov 11 (V7N) — The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has officially announced that no programs or celebrations will be held on November 20 to mark the 60th birthday of its Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman. A press release, signed by BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, states that strict organizational action will be taken against any leaders or activists who defy this directive.

The statement emphasizes that leaders and activists across all BNP units, affiliated organizations, and associate bodies nationwide are instructed to refrain from any festivities on Tarique Rahman's birthday. The release further underscores that violators will face organizational consequences.

Tarique Rahman, born in 1965 and now residing in London for treatment since the tenure of the first and eleventh governments, is the eldest son of martyred President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. Despite ongoing legal challenges, BNP supporters and members hope for his return to Bangladesh amidst recent political changes in the country.

Having entered politics at the age of 22 as a member of the Gabtoli Thana Committee in Bogra, Tarique Rahman has grown to hold significant influence in BNP. In 2001, he campaigned nationwide alongside his mother, Khaleda Zia. He was elected BNP’s senior vice chairman in 2016 and assumed the role of acting chairman in 2018 when Khaleda Zia was imprisoned.

BNP’s decision to forgo celebrations this year highlights the party’s cautious stance amid the current political climate and reflects a directive to maintain organizational unity and discipline during a pivotal period for the party.

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