BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman on Thursday said Bogura stands as a model district for planned national development, citing it as a practical example of how the country’s remaining 63 districts could be developed in a structured manner.
He made the remarks while addressing an election rally as the chief guest at the historic Altafunnesa Playground in Bogura city shortly after midnight on Thursday (January 29), marking his return to his birthplace after 19 years.
At the outset of his speech, Tarique Rahman expressed gratitude to Allah, saying it was by divine grace that he was able to return to his own soil after nearly two decades. “I am struggling to find the words to describe how it feels to come back home,” he said, becoming emotional.
Recalling his time in the country 19 years ago, BNP chairperson said efforts had been made to implement development projects in Bogura in line with public needs. “Even if we were not fully successful, we sincerely tried to do whatever was possible within the framework of the law,” he added.
Highlighting development initiatives undertaken during that period, he mentioned the widening of the Banani–Matidali road, the establishment of Shaheed Ziaur Rahman Medical College, gas connections and various infrastructure projects, which he said were implemented based on people’s demands.
Tarique Rahman said he had always considered Bogura a model district because it demonstrated how planned development could be carried out by prioritising people’s basic needs and building infrastructure step by step.
Recalling the period from 2001 to 2006, he said all seven parliamentary constituencies in Bogura witnessed more development work than many other districts of the country. “That is why Bogura remains a model district to me,” he said.
He further noted that the infrastructure developed at the time allowed most essential services to be met locally, reducing the need for residents to travel to Dhaka for healthcare, education and other necessities.
Referring to the upcoming national election, Tarique Rahman said the polls were not merely a political process but would determine whether an accountable government would be established in the country. He urged people to remain conscious and responsible, saying the election on the 12th would shape the country’s future and play a key role in restoring democracy.
Speaking about local representation, he said former prime minister and BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia had previously served as a lawmaker from Bogura. “Though she is currently absent, I want to stand beside the people of Bogura as a son of the soil and as a brother,” he said.
Mentioning what he described as deprivation over the past 15 years, Tarique Rahman said not only Bogura but the entire country had suffered. He added that if BNP is given the opportunity to govern, the party would work to advance Bogura along with the rest of Bangladesh.
The rally drew a massive turnout, with the Altafunnesa Playground packed with party leaders, activists and supporters. An emotional atmosphere prevailed as residents welcomed Tarique Rahman after a long absence.
At the end of the rally, he introduced seven candidates and formally handed over the party’s election symbol, the sheaf of paddy, to them.
NSA
