Tarique in Mymensingh after 22 years as BNP rally begins

A BNP election rally began at 1:50pm today at the Circuit House ground on the bank of the Brahmaputra River in Mymensingh, marking of party chairman Tarique Rahman's return to the district after nearly 22 years.

The rally opened with the recitation from the Holy Quran, and Tarique is scheduled to address the gathering as the chief speaker.

An announcement from the stage said Tarique’s motorcade crossed Trishal around 2:00pm on its way to the venue.

Party leaders and activists began arriving at the venue from the morning in small processions. Supporters travelled from Mymensingh and neighbouring districts by bus, train and other passenger transport to join the programme.

Between 12:00pm and 2:00pm, this correspondent observed continuous processions moving towards the venue along roads surrounding the Circuit House ground. Many supporters wore colourful caps and T-shirts as they marched.

Large screens and speakers were set up at several points across the venue to allow attendees to follow the programme.

Ahead of the rally, law enforcement personnel were deployed at various points around the venue to maintain order and ensure security.

Jalal Uddin, vice-president of Lakshichar Union BNP, said he arrived at the venue around 9:00am with about 100 party leaders and activists.

“This is a joyful day for us. For the last 17 years, we could not do normal politics or hold rallies,” he said.

“If BNP comes to power, we hope roads and other infrastructure in our area will be developed, which is our main problem.”

Emdadul Islam, agriculture affairs secretary of Kushtia Union BNP, said the rally was special for local activists.

“This will be the first time we will see Tarique Rahman face to face. For us, this is a big moment,” he said.

At the event, Sherpur district BNP convener Sirajul Islam said the party would move forward under Tarique Rahman’s leadership to ensure victory in all constituencies.

BNP Mymensingh North unit convener Enayatullah Kalam described the upcoming election as crucial for the party, saying it followed years of political struggle.

Meanwhile, BNP Mymensingh city unit convener Rafiqul Islam urged party activists to work together to secure victory for BNP candidates.

Tarique Rahman last visited Mymensingh in 2004, when he attended a conference of union representatives. His return after nearly 22 years has generated visible enthusiasm among party supporters and local residents.