Shrouded Power: Is autocracy thriving among covert elements?
Tarique Rahman at the BNP's founding anniversary rally at the KIB Auditorium — Photo: BNP Media Cell.
BNP Chairman and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said that a certain group has long been trying to operate under the guise of secrecy.
He said, "Just as clandestine elements existed within the autocratic regime, we must now vigilantly investigate whether any autocrats are hiding among these clandestine forces, and if they are attempting to bring back autocracy."
He made these remarks as the chief guest during a discussion meeting organized at the Krishibid Institution in Khamarbari, Farmgate, Dhaka, on the occasion of the 48th founding anniversary of the BNP on Saturday (September 5).
"We are not saying there are no problems in the country," he said. "However, if any individual or group attempts to capitalize on these issues to create chaos, the law of the land clearly outlines how to suppress disorder. Everyone must stay within their respective limits."
He emphasized that BNP envisions a free and democratic state where citizens can express their views independently and without hindrance.
Recalling the contributions of Ziaur Rahman and Begum Khaleda Zia, the Prime Minister noted, "Martyred President Ziaur Rahman is the declarer of independence—this fact cannot be erased by any law or court. He established multi-party democracy. Furthermore, Begum Khaleda Zia introduced free education for women for the first time in the country. From the neutral caretaker government system to freedom and democracy, Zia, Khaleda, and BNP are fundamentally intertwined with the nation's history."
He highlighted that BNP has consistently led from the front during every crisis—from resolving the post-independence food shortage to assuming responsibility following the fall of autocracy—and has never engaged in politics behind closed doors.
Referring to the 2024 mass uprising, Tarique Rahman remarked, "The true mastermind of the '24 movement is the people of this country. On this day, I respectfully honor the colleagues who sacrificed their lives for the party and the nation."
Addressing current governance challenges and the ongoing energy crisis, the Prime Minister added, "Upon taking office, we inherited a fragile economy and a collapsed administrative system. The most pressing issue right now is the energy crisis, which is causing distress to the public. However, a sustainable action plan has been formulated to prevent similar crises in the future."
