BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman cast his vote at Gulshan Model High School in the capital on Thursday (February 12), expressing strong optimism about his party’s prospects and pledging to prioritise law and order if elected.
He entered the polling centre at 9:36 am and left at 9:50 am after voting. Speaking to journalists outside the centre, he was accompanied by his wife, Dr Zubaida Rahman, and daughter, Zaima Rahman.
After casting his ballot, Tarique said he felt satisfied to exercise his voting rights after a long gap. He voiced firm confidence in the BNP’s victory. “The people of Bangladesh have been waiting for this day for more than a decade,” he told reporters.
He expressed hope that voters would turn out in large numbers and take part in what he described as the beginning of a new democratic chapter for the country.
Referring to reports of isolated incidents across the country the previous night, Tarique said law enforcement agencies had taken effective steps to control the situation, which he described as encouraging.
He urged voters and party activists to remain at polling stations until voting concluded. “If people stay at the centres throughout the day and exercise their rights, then, InshaAllah, any conspiracy can be defeated,” he said.
When asked about his chances of success, Tarique replied, “InshaAllah, I am strongly optimistic about winning.”
He said restoring law and order would be the BNP’s top priority if it forms the next government. “Our main goal will be to ensure that ordinary citizens feel safe in their own country,” he added.
The BNP leader also highlighted the importance of women’s participation in national development. Noting that women make up half the population, he said meaningful progress would be impossible without their empowerment. He added that, in line with the party’s manifesto, initiatives to strengthen women’s role and rights would begin from the first day in office. Tarique concluded by expressing hope for a stable and prosperous future for the country.
