Noakhali, Bangladesh — Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), on Monday called on supporters to remain alert against what he described as renewed efforts to undermine the upcoming election, urging voters not only to cast their ballots but to stay at polling centers to ensure their votes are properly counted.
Addressing a large campaign rally in Noakhali’s Hatiya Island virtually, Mr. Rahman portrayed the Feb. 12 election as a critical moment for safeguarding democratic participation. He appealed to voters of all faiths to arrive early at polling stations and to stand together in long lines to protect the integrity of the vote.
“Casting a vote is not enough,” he said. “You must also remain there so that every vote is accounted for precisely.” His remarks drew repeated affirmations from the crowd gathered at the Government College grounds in Hatiya.
Mr. Rahman alleged that “a group” was again conspiring to obstruct the election, though he did not specify who was responsible. He urged supporters to stay vigilant and organized throughout election day.
Turning to local issues, Mr. Rahman promised that if the BNP returned to power, his party would prioritize measures to prevent river erosion in Hatiya, a long-standing problem in the coastal region. He said sustainable embankments and block barriers would be constructed to protect communities and enhance the area’s landscape.
“I have noted your problems,” he told the audience. “If we are given the mandate to govern, we will take lasting steps to stop river erosion.”
Mr. Rahman also introduced the BNP candidate for the Noakhali-6 constituency, Md. Mahbuber Rahman Shamim, urging voters to back him with the party’s symbol, the sheaf of paddy. He described Mr. Shamim as a future symbol of development for the area and asked supporters to ensure his victory at the polls.
Addressing women voters, Mr. Rahman said they were proud partners in national development and pledged that a BNP-led government would introduce welfare initiatives such as family cards and health cards to expand social protection.
He concluded by promising to return to Hatiya after the election to meet voters in person, reiterating his claim that the BNP is “a party of the people” and that, under its leadership, the ultimate authority would rest with citizens themselves.
The rally was chaired by Mahbub Alamgir Alo, the convener of the district BNP, and featured speeches from local party leaders and youth wing representatives, underscoring the party’s efforts to mobilize grassroots support ahead of the vote.