BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman has said that the future BNP will be a transparent and accountable political party built on the firm foundation of democracy. He expressed his intention to rebuild the party responsibly, drawing lessons from both its successes and failures.
He made the remarks during the second part of an interview broadcast by BBC Bangla on Tuesday.
“Our main political goal is the people, the country, and its sovereignty,” Tarique Rahman said. “By learning from the positive aspects of our past, we aim to build a stronger democratic foundation for the future.”
He reminded that both Bangladesh’s garments industry and remittance economy were established during BNP’s rule. Under the leadership of President Ziaur Rahman, famine-stricken Bangladesh achieved food self-sufficiency and even exported food abroad.
“When the one-party system ‘Bakshal’ had banned all political parties, it was through the BNP that multiparty democracy returned to the nation,” he added. “That history is our inspiration.”
On the issue of political accountability, Tarique Rahman said, “Allegations may exist, and we will take them into consideration. But given the opportunity, we will prove what real accountability should look like. It cannot be achieved overnight—it must be built gradually.”
He further stated, “Nation-building is not the sole duty of politicians; citizens are partners in this effort. I promise that we will do our utmost to foster a culture of accountability in politics.”
Reflecting on his years in exile, the BNP leader said, “I have been living abroad for 17 years. Leading the party from such a distance would not have been possible without the support of my family and colleagues.”
Expressing gratitude toward party members, he said, “Despite facing repression and obstacles, those who have remained organized, active on the streets, and vocal for the people’s rights—I thank them sincerely.”
Tarique Rahman concluded by saying that whatever positive experiences he has gained from his time in the United Kingdom, he wishes to apply them for the betterment of the Bangladeshi people and the strengthening of democracy in the country.