I have a plan, Tarique Rahman invokes Martin Luther King Jr at Dhaka rally

Bangladesh ist Party (BNP) acting chairman Tarique Rahman, son of former prime minister Khaleda Zia, addressed a massive rally in Dhaka on Wednesday hours after returning to the country following nearly two decades in exile. During the speech attended by a sea of supporters, Rehman outlined his vision for Bangladesh and invoked the words of late American civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr, saying, "I have a plan".

Speaking before thousands of supporters at Dhaka’s 300 Feet area, Rahman said the people of Bangladesh want to reclaim their democratic rights and freedom of expression. Referring to King’s famous “I have a dream” speech, he declared, “I have a plan,” adding that its success depends on the collective support of the people.

Opening his address with the words "Beloved Bangladesh," Rahman thanked party leaders, activists and citizens who stood by the BNP during his absence.

He said, "If you support us, I have a plan that will be a success for this country," and called on people from all walks of life to participate in rebuilding the nation.

Reflecting on Bangladesh’s history, Rahman drew parallels between past struggles and recent political movements.

He recalled the 1971 Liberation War, subsequent uprisings and mass movements, and the events of 2024, when people from different sections of society held widespread protests against the then government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

He added that honouring those martyred in 1971 and 2024 requires building the country as they envisioned.

He said the people now want to regain their right to speak freely and restore democratic governance.

Emphasising unity, Rahman said the time had come for everyone to work together.

Highlighting Bangladesh’s diversity, he said the country belongs equally to people of all faiths and beliefs, and stressed the need for tolerance and inclusion.

"This is a land of hills and plains, home to Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians alike. We want to build a safe Bangladesh—a country where any woman, man, or child can leave their home safely and return safely," he said.

He outlined his vision of a secure nation, saying, "We want to build a safe Bangladesh—a country where any woman, man, or child can leave their home safely and return safely".

Rahman repeatedly underlined his focus on stability, stating, "We want peace in the country," and asserting that the BNP would work to restore peace, discipline and democratic norms. He also stressed the importance of a strong economic foundation alongside political reform.

Paying tribute to Osman Hadi, an anti-India activist who was shot by unidentified men and died days after that, Rahman said Hadi had dreamed of a democratic Bangladesh and wanted people to regain their economic rights.

Looking ahead, Rahman said the younger generation would play a decisive role in shaping Bangladesh’s future, calling on them to take responsibility for the nation’s development and stability.

Rahman concluded by urging cooperation from all citizens to realise his vision, saying collective effort was essential to implement his plan.

He also requested prayers for his mother, Khaleda Zia, who is currently hospitalised in Dhaka, noting that his heart remains with her.

Rahman returned to Bangladesh on Wednesday after 17 years abroad, arriving in Dhaka earlier in the day to a rousing welcome from party leaders and supporters.

He later met Muhamm Yunus, the Chief Advisor of Bangladesh’s interim government, and discussed the ongoing political situation in the country.

- Ends

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