Khulna Correspondent:
The long wait of 22 years is over. Finally, BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman is going to set foot on Khulna soil. This news seems to have suddenly created a storm in the political sky of Khulna. A wave of emotion, excitement and expectation has spread among BNP leaders and activists across the city. The long deprivation, waiting and fatigue of the movement seem to disappear in an instant – because, the beloved leader is coming.
Responsible sources of Khulna Metropolitan BNP said that Tarique Rahman will address as the chief guest at a huge election rally to be held by Khulna Metropolitan and District BNP on February 2 (Monday). After more than two decades, this is going to be Tarique Rahman’s direct political program on Khulna soil – which is not just a rally for the leaders and activists, but an explosion of emotions, a repetition of history.
Metropolitan BNP General Secretary Shafiqul Alam Tuhin said that this rally will be held at 10 am on Monday (February 2) at the Probhati School Ground in Khalishpur. The decision was finalized in an important meeting of Khulna BNP top leaders on Friday (January 30) night. Khulna-2 constituency candidate Nazrul Islam Manju, Khulna-3 constituency candidate Rakibul Islam Bakul, central information secretary and Khulna-4 constituency candidate Azizul Bari Helal, Khulna-5 constituency candidate Ali Asgar Lobi, and other top leaders of the metropolitan and district BNP were present in the meeting.
Party sources said that the goal of turning this public rally into the largest election rally in the southern region with the participation of a large number of leaders and activists from Khulna metropolis, district and some neighboring districts has been set. Extensive preparations have already begun with an estimated attendance target of 8 lakh people.
Responsibilities have been distributed between the metropolitan and district BNP and its affiliates. To make the rally successful, 6 sub-committees including coordination, accommodation, discipline, and media have been formed. A huge stage and modern sound system will come from Dhaka. Preparation meetings are underway at the party office around field security, maintaining order, media management and campaign activities. In the meantime, campaign miking has started in the city and district.
Metropolitan BNP President Ed. Shafiqul Alam Mona said, Tarique Rahman’s arrival in Khulna is not just an election program – it is a moment for us to regain courage, confidence and morale. This visit will be a source of new inspiration for leaders and activists who have been in the movement and struggle for a long time. It is emotional, proud and honorable for us to see our beloved leader in our own city after 22 years.
He also said, Khulna is historically a stronghold of BNP. Tarique Rahman’s visit on the eve of the election will play an important role in BNP’s political strategy. This public meeting will be a milestone to demonstrate the party’s organizational strength in the southern region and restore confidence among voters. Meanwhile, relevant sources have confirmed that the administration is also taking necessary preparations to maintain the law and order situation normal around the public meeting.
All in all, Tarique Rahman’s visit to Khulna after 22 years is not just a political event – it is the beginning of a new chapter in Khulna politics, political analysts believe. It is worth noting that Tarique Rahman last visited Khulna in 2004.