Khaleda Zia Never Encouraged Corruption, Says Tarique Rahman at Mymensingh Rally

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has said that former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia never encouraged corruption, asserting that her leadership was internationally recognized for integrity.

Speaking at an election rally at the Circuit House ground in Mymensingh on Tuesday, Rahman dismissed allegations of corruption against BNP, stating that political rivals who now make such claims had ministers in the government between 2001 and 2007. “If corruption was institutionalized, why didn’t they resign at that time?” he questioned.

Referring to the upcoming national election scheduled for February 12, Rahman emphasized the importance of voting rights, saying that only a government elected by the people can ensure effective governance and development.

He alleged that prolonged periods of non-elected administrations had resulted in unresolved local problems and lack of accountability. “There was no one to listen to the people because there was no elected government,” he said.

Highlighting BNP’s future plans, Rahman announced proposals such as family cards for women to support household welfare and farmer cards to ensure access to fertilizers and agricultural inputs. He also stressed participatory development initiatives, including canal excavation projects.

Rahman urged voters to remain vigilant on election day to prevent vote rigging and called for unity to restore democracy. Senior BNP leaders and candidates from four districts were present at the rally, reaffirming the party’s commitment to democratic reform and people’s rights.