Tarique accuses ‘some parties’ of misleading people

BNP chief and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has accused “some political parties” of deliberately misleading the public over the July Charter, while reaffirming his party’s commitment to fully implementing its provisions.

Standing before thousands at a public rally at Altafunnesa playground in Bogura on Monday afternoon, he said the BNP would implement every part of the July Charter.

 “Standing in front of this huge gathering and before the media, I want to make it clear again -- we will implement every word of the July Charter, God willing,” he said.

 “But despite repeated clarification, we see some political parties inside and outside parliament are now making statements to mislead people,” he added.

He said 11 reform commissions had been formed by the interim government, covering the constitution, judiciary, administration, health, and women’s issues, but alleged that “the smell of conspiracy” was now in the air.

 “Those who keep talking about reforms to confuse people never speak about women’s empowerment or development,” he said.

 “They say nothing about ensuring easier access to healthcare or medicines for the people.”

 “They do not talk about fixing the administration or restoring law and order. They only keep talking about the Constitution,” he added.

Referring to recent incidents, he told supporters that “hidden misguiders” were again attempting to create confusion, citing a recent unrelated personal dispute in Mymensingh that he said was being politicised online.

 “Have you seen how a small family matter was turned into a political issue to create unrest?” he asked.

Arriving on stage at Altafunnesa Playground in Bogura town around 5pm on Monday, BNP chief Tarique Rahman was greeted with waves of applause from thousands of supporters. The smiling prime minister acknowledged the crowd, waving back in response.

This marks Tarique’s first public rally in Bogura since assuming office as premier.

Previously, on Jan 29, he addressed an election rally at the same venue as BNP chair.

The Bogura district unit of the BNP organised Monday’s gathering to mark his visit to his ancestral hometown.

Party leaders and activists began arriving at the venue in small processions from noon. By around 3pm, the ground was teeming with people.

Supporters also filled surrounding roads, spilling outside the field.

Before heading to the rally, Tarique spent some time at his ancestral residence “Zia Bari” in Bagbari, Gabtali, in Bogura.