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BNP's Tarique Rahman: Bangladesh's Existence Rooted in 1971 Liberation War

Tarique Rahman, Acting Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has stated that the country's very existence is founded upon the 1971 Liberation War against Pakistan. He made these remarks during a meeting with leaders of the left-leaning Democratic United Front in Dhaka. Rahman, who recently returned from 17 years of exile, emphasized utilizing the current political climate to strengthen democracy and ensure a credible national election. His return coincides with preparations for the upcoming parliamentary elections, marking a significant moment in Bangladesh's ongoing political turbulence.

Key Points: Tarique Rahman on 1971 War as Bangladesh's Foundation

  • Liberation War as state foundation
  • Call for national unity
  • Concern over law and order
  • Emphasis on fair elections
  • Return from exile
2 min read

Bangladesh's existence cannot be imagined without 1971 Liberation War: BNP's Tarique Rahman

BNP's Tarique Rahman states Bangladesh's existence is unimaginable without the 1971 Liberation War, calls for unity ahead of elections.

"The Liberation War is the foundation of Bangladesh as a State and its politics. - Tarique Rahman"

Dhaka, Jan 6

Bangladesh Nationalist Party Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has asserted that the country's existence remains rooted in the 1971 Liberation War against Pakistan, local media reported.

"The Liberation War is the foundation of Bangladesh as a State and its politics. The country's very existence cannot be imagined without 1971," Bangladeshi media outlet BSS quoted Tarique as saying during a meeting with leaders of the Democratic United Front (DUF), a coalition of Bangladesh's left-leaning parties, at the BNP Chairperson's office in Dhaka.

"The new political reality and possibilities that have emerged in the country after the recent uprising must be utilised. Everyone, including the government and the opposition parties, must work together to move the country forward," he added.

Stressing the need for national unity, Tarique said that the existing political opportunity must be used to bolster the democratic system.

During the meeting, the leaders of the DUF expressed grief and offered condolences over the death of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia on December 30.

Reports suggest that the leaders also held discussions with Tarique on the prevailing political situation in the country.

According to the leaders of the left-leaning parties, the BNP leader also voiced concern over the law and order situation in the country.

At the same time, Tarique emphasised the importance of a fair, free, and credible national election and called on everyone to remain united.

Following the meeting, Bazlur Rashid Firoz, General Secretary of Bangladesh Samajtantrik Dal (BSD), said, "He [Tarique] told us that after returning to the country on December 25, he made it clear in his speeches that the Liberation War is our foundation. Without the Liberation War, Bangladesh would not exist."

After 17 years of self-imposed exile, Tarique returned to Bangladesh on December 25 amid a deepening political crisis in the country.

He landed at Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight, accompanied by his wife Zubaida Rahman and daughter Zaima Rahman.

His return comes at a time when the Bangladesh Election Commission announced that the country's 13th national parliamentary election, along with a referendum on the July Charter, will be held on February 12 next year.

Analysts reckon that Tarique's return and participation in the February 2026 elections will test the waters amid the ongoing turbulence in Bangladesh's politics under the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government, which is under mounting pressure to deliver a free, fair and credible election.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
Interesting timing for his return, right before the elections. Calling for national unity is one thing, but will his party actually work with others? The proof will be in their actions, not just words. Hope the people of Bangladesh get a free and fair election.
P
Priyanka N
As an Indian, I feel a deep connection to this. Our fathers and grandfathers fought alongside the Mukti Bahini. It's heartening to hear Bangladeshi leaders honor that shared sacrifice. The spirit of 1971 must never be forgotten. Jai Hind.
R
Rahul R
Respectfully, while the sentiment about 1971 is correct, it's a bit rich coming from Tarique Rahman. His party's history with the war's ideology has been... complicated. Actions speak louder than words. Let's see if this translates into genuine policy.
K
Kavya N
Stability in Bangladesh is crucial for the entire region, including our Northeast states. Hoping the upcoming elections are peaceful and credible. A strong, democratic Bangladesh is good for India-Bangladesh relations and trade.
M
Michael C
The call for unity is a positive step. After 17 years in exile, he must have a unique perspective. The international community will be watching how this political reintegration plays out. Hope it leads to constructive dialogue.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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