Dhaka, Dec 25 (V7N)- BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Thursday said that the time has come for everyone to work together to rebuild the country, stressing the need for peace, unity and collective effort.

“We will all build a Bangladesh that a mother dreams of. We want peace in the country,” he said while addressing a reception organized at the 300-foot area in Purbachal on Thursday afternoon.

At the beginning of his speech, Tarique Rahman expressed gratitude to the Almighty, saying,
“First of all, I express my gratitude to the Almighty, for by His infinite mercy, I have been able to return to my beloved motherland among you.”

Referring to the sacrifices made over the past years, he said that mothers, sisters and members of the younger generation had laid down their lives during the last 15 years, particularly mentioning the loss of lives during the July movement.

“July took away the brave children of our time. If we can build the Bangladesh expected by those who were martyred, including Osman Hadi, then building the country will be possible,” he said, calling for patience and unity. He particularly urged the young generation to come forward and work together.

Highlighting democratic aspirations, Tarique Rahman said that just as people from all walks of life came together to achieve independence in 1971, they must once again unite to protect the country’s independence and sovereignty.

“The people of Bangladesh want to get back their right to speak. They want to get back their right to democracy,” he said.

Emphasizing inclusivity, he added,
“In this country, there are people from the hills and plains—Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists and Christians. We want to build a safe Bangladesh, where women, men and children can leave their homes safely and return safely.”

Referring to martyr Osman Hadi, Tarique Rahman said that Hadi had fought for the economic rights of the people.
“To repay the blood debt of those martyred in 1971 and those martyred in 2024, we must build the Bangladesh they dreamed of,” he said.

He concluded by stressing that the future of the country lies in the hands of the youth.
“The young generation will build the country. Bangladesh must be built on a democratic and strong economic foundation. We want peace in the country,” he added.

Earlier in the day, at around 11:30 am, a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight (BG202) carrying Tarique Rahman landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka. After disembarking at the VIP lounge, the BNP acting chairman was seen taking in the air of his homeland following his return after more than 17 years abroad.

END/SMA/AJ