London, Sept 04 (V7N): BNP's Acting Chairman, Tarique Rahman, has declared the party's intention to see Bangladesh governed by a national government supported by the people. He emphasized that the BNP does not wish to repeat the post-independence mistake of failing to harness the power of national unity.

During a meeting with grassroots leaders from Dhaka Division on Wednesday, as part of a series of ongoing programs, Tarique Rahman underscored the importance of national unity in the country's governance.

BNP National Standing Committee members Mirza Abbas, Dr. Abdul Moyeen Khan, and Goyeshwar Chandra Roy were also present at the event.

Reflecting on the liberation war, Tarique Rahman said, "Our ancestors secured an independent country through their struggle, with national unity being the key to victory. Unfortunately, after independence, we missed the opportunity to maintain that unity. Instead of forming a necessary national government, the ruling Awami League established a party-based government from the outset, leading to divisions within the country. As a result, a large segment of the population was unable to contribute to nation-building."

He continued, "We've seen how a party-centric government allows one party to dominate, marginalizing others and depriving a significant portion of the population of essential services. Those who have fought for democracy and voting rights should be involved in future governance to ensure the nation benefits from their efforts."

Tarique Rahman also highlighted a significant reform proposal, stating, "We believe the public should be informed about our crucial reform plan. Many talented individuals—such as educators, artists, journalists, researchers, doctors, technical experts, and humanitarian workers—who are not typically involved in politics but wish to contribute to the country's development and governance, are currently excluded from serving as members of parliament due to the existing constitutional framework. The BNP supports the introduction of a bicameral parliamentary system with an upper chamber, similar to many other countries, to make use of their expertise and contributions."

He added, "I can only share our future plans and intentions because we believe that with the people's support, we can implement them."

Tarique Rahman expressed confidence that the public would reject those who have turned the country into personal property for a single party and family. He criticized those who, under the guise of development, have burdened every citizen with heavy debt, siphoned off vast sums of money abroad, and accumulated enormous wealth while causing immense suffering through abductions, killings, and legal harassment.

He also condemned the rising prices of essential goods and the destruction of all state pillars, including law, justice, and the executive branches.

Concluding his speech, Tarique Rahman asserted that even in their final moments before fleeing, these tyrants stained every district and upazila in the capital with the blood of innocent people. He expressed hope that the public would not want such figures to be part of the national government.

END/MSS/