PM Urges BNP Unity Ahead of Local Government Polls

Prime Minister and BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Monday urged party leaders and activists to remain united ahead of the upcoming local government elections, warning that internal divisions would only benefit "fascist forces" and infiltrators.

Addressing an organisational meeting of local BNP leaders and activists at the Barishal Shilpakala Academy, he said differences of opinion are natural but should never be allowed to weaken the party or undermine its unity.

"You remained united during the past 17 years and led the party to victory in the parliamentary election. You must maintain that same unity in the local government elections. If we stay united, no fascist force or infiltrator will be able to take advantage. They will benefit only if our unity breaks," he said.

Recalling the party's years in opposition, Tarique praised grassroots leaders and activists for keeping the BNP united despite repression.

"You endured enforced disappearances, killings and persecution, yet you stood together and protected the party. You devoted more time to the party than to your own families, spent your own money and endured hardship for its cause. If you could remain united then, there is no reason you cannot remain united now," he said.

The Prime Minister urged party members to remain vigilant against what he described as "hybrid" politicians and infiltrators, saying conspiracies surrounding the election had not ended.

"Some are still plotting inside the country, while others are conspiring from abroad. As we strengthen the organisation, we must ensure that hybrids and infiltrators do not enter the party leadership," he said.

Tarique Rahman said the BNP's return to power was made possible by the sacrifices of its leaders and activists, making it essential to further strengthen the organisation at the grassroots.

"If you want the party to remain in government, the grassroots must stay united and strong. It is because of your dedication that the BNP has come to power," he said.

Referring to the planned local government elections, he said organisational preparation must come first.

"You want local government elections, but are you prepared? Without preparation, can you win? And if you cannot win, how will the government function?" he asked.

He said the government would hold local government elections and that discussions on the timing would take place after the monsoon.

"Before that, you must unite and decide among yourselves who will contest for chairman, who will run for member and who will lead the organisation," he said.

The Prime Minister also urged party workers not to make unrealistic promises for political gain.

"I will not promise what I cannot deliver," he said, adding that governing requires responsible and realistic decisions rather than populist commitments.

Tarique Rahman expressed confidence that BNP leaders and activists would remain united and repeat their organisational success in the local government elections.

He also instructed party leaders and activists to ensure the peaceful observance of the upcoming Rath Yatra festival.

"The festival must be celebrated peacefully at any cost. No one should be allowed to create any untoward incident or exploit the occasion," he said.