BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has said that India will face public resentment if it continues to shelter dictators and that his party has little to do about it.
“…It’s the people of Bangladesh who have decided to remain calm towards them. So, I must stand with my country’s people,” he said.
Tarique Rahman discussed reforms, Bangladesh-India relations, and a range of political issues in an exclusive interview with BBC Bangla. For the first time in nearly two decades, Tarique Rahman has answered questions face-to-face with any media outlet.
The interview was conducted by Mir Sabbir, Editor of BBC Bangla, and Kadir Kallol, Senior Journalist at BBC Bangla. Tarique Rahman joined the interview virtually from London. The second and final part of the two-part interview has been published by BBC Bangla. The Daily Sun presents a summary of the interview for its readers:
BBC Bangla: How is your relationship with the government currently managing Bangladesh, which you have described as an interim government?
Tarique Rahman: This is a political matter, not a personal one. From the beginning, we have said that we want this interim government to succeed. There are many issues, but if we highlight the main two: one is necessary reforms, and the other is the expected free, fair, and independent elections.
The main goal of the current government should be to conduct a free, fair, and neutral election along with essential reforms. As a political party, this is what we expect them to fulfill responsibly.
We hope and expect that they will perform their duties well. Naturally, the warmth or coldness of our relationship will depend on how well or poorly they perform this task.
BBC Bangla: A few months ago, you mentioned that the neutrality of the interim government had raised doubts among the public. Do you still have that concern?
Tarique Rahman: When I made that statement, as far as I remember, the government had not given any specific timeline or roadmap for elections. That was why, not only in my mind but also among media and political observers at the time, there was general skepticism.
However, when the interim government head, Dr. Yunus, announced a roadmap and later repeatedly reaffirmed his decisions, naturally, much of this doubt gradually faded among the people. I believe that as long as they remain firm in their commitments, doubts will slowly dissipate.
BBC Bangla: During your meeting in London with him, election discussions took place. Were there other issues or agreements discussed?
Tarique Rahman: Apart from that, our discussions were cordial. He asked what steps we would take for the country and its people if given the opportunity. We discussed some of our thoughts about the country, the people, and our proposed actions if the public gives us that opportunity.
BBC Bangla: How do you assess the interim government’s performance over the past year in running the country?
Tarique Rahman: An interim government is temporary. Governing a country is a massive task. If we look at Bangladesh by land, some may call it a small country, but in terms of population, Bangladesh, with about 200 million people, is much larger than the UK, which has around 70 million. Governing such a country requires a strong political mandate.
Considering everything, I think they have tried in many areas. Naturally, no government can succeed in everything. They have limitations, and within those, they have tried their best.
BBC Bangla: What is your assessment of the 11th government?
Tarique Rahman: I prefer to look forward rather than backward. However, if I must reflect briefly, the 11th government was driven by an ulterior, dishonest purpose. We saw how they tried to disrupt politics and democratic processes, taking the country in a dark direction. They misused the name of democracy for their purposes.
BBC Bangla: How much has BNP politics changed, and what will the future BNP look like?
Tarique Rahman: The main goal of our politics is the people, the country, and its sovereignty. We take pride in Bangladesh’s garments industry and the contributions of expatriates sending remittances—both of which BNP initiated.
Historically, we have turned a famine-stricken country in 1974 into one that could even export food in later years. Politically, when BNP assumed power, we reinstated multi-party democracy after the one-party system under Bangladesh Krishak Sramik Awami League (BaKSAL).
For the future, we aim to strengthen democracy and accountability. Criticism may exist in politics, but if we are given the opportunity, we will act responsibly, based on experience and lessons learned.
BBC Bangla: How has your leadership perspective evolved after 15 years in exile?
Tarique Rahman: I have been abroad for 17 years, dealing with time differences and distance. I am grateful to my family for their support and to my countless party workers who have kept the party organized and active despite difficulties.
Living abroad has also taught me perspectives and lessons that I hope to apply for the benefit of Bangladesh if given the opportunity.
BBC Bangla: What will BNP’s diplomatic principle be if you form the government?
Tarique Rahman: BNP’s guiding principle is simple: “Bangladesh first.” We prioritize our people, our country, and our sovereignty above all else.
BBC Bangla: What about relations with India?
Tarique Rahman: My principle remains the same—Bangladesh first. We will protect our national interests, which includes matters like water rights and border issues. Relations with any country, including India, will be guided by what is best for Bangladesh.
BBC Bangla: On reforms, particularly regarding the Prime Minister holding multiple positions, why does BNP disagree?
Tarique Rahman: BNP respects the need for reforms in the country. Democracy inherently includes differing opinions. We do not see disagreement as undemocratic. Our stance on a person holding three posts is based on principle, not fear of autocracy.
BBC Bangla: Regarding the 31-point reform agenda and the July Accord, what will be prioritized?
Tarique Rahman: We will prioritize issues where consensus exists first. Then we will implement the remaining points from the 31-point agenda. These are our political commitments to the people.
BBC Bangla: On animal rights, social media, and memes—how do you engage?
Tarique Rahman: Regarding my pet cat, it belongs to my daughter, though everyone adores it. My interest in animals dates back to childhood. Humanity has a responsibility to care for all creatures and preserve nature.
Regarding social media, I enjoy it. I also believe in responsible use—fact-checking and avoiding harm from misinformation is important. People have the right to express opinions, but we must remain mindful of potential harm.
BBC Bangla: How will you build public trust given political changes after 5 August?
Tarique Rahman: BNP has experience in governance. Like trusting a skilled driver to safely reach a destination, people can rely on BNP’s experience and commitments. Past lessons guide our future actions, and we aim to deliver responsibly.
BBC Bangla: Freedom of expression and media independence—can you guarantee it if BNP comes to power?
Tarique Rahman: Yes. During BNP’s past government, journalists were not harassed or forced to leave the country. If we return to power, we will ensure freedom of expression and protect the media. We will also review existing restrictive laws through discussion with journalists and concerned parties.
BBC Bangla: Thank you, Tarique Rahman, for speaking with BBC Bangla.
Tarique Rahman: Thank you as well. Your platform allowed me to share my views with the people of Bangladesh, and I sincerely appreciate it.
LND/SAE
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