Tarique Rahman: Reform goals at risk as supporters of fallen AL regime still in power

BNP Deputy Chairman Tarique Rahman expressed concern over the pace of the interim government’s reforms, saying it was difficult to achieve reform goals at a time when beneficiaries of the ousted Awami League regime were still in influential positions.

“We all agree that it is not easy for the government to achieve its goals as beneficiaries of the fallen autocratic government (AL) are still holding important positions in the state,” he said while exchanging virtual greetings with members of the Hindu community. Dhaka Ladies Club is at the capital’s Eskaton today (October 29).

The reception was hosted by the BNP-affiliated “Hindu, Buddhist and Christian Unity Council” organization to celebrate the Hindu festival Durga Puja.

During the programme, Hindu leaders affiliated with BNP expressed doubts over the recent Hindu meeting held in Chattogram’s Lal Dighi Ground followed by the announcement of a long march to Dhaka, claiming that it was an event sponsored by the Awami League.

Tarique alleged that AL used violence to ensure security and targeted minorities, especially the Hindu community.

He emphasized that after the collapse of the autocratic regime, the people of Bangladesh now feel safer, regardless of their religion.

However, Tariq warned that remnants of the previous regime may try to create division and incite violence and urged everyone to be vigilant. He called for unity among all religious groups to build a new Bangladesh.

“Reforming a state that has suffered from 15 years of mismanagement is not an easy task for the interim government,” he said. “The government must prioritize the reform agenda and remain vigilant against efforts by previous regime supporters aimed at derailing the process.”

Meanwhile, BNP General Secretary Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, who chaired the event, called on everyone to work together to build a secular Bangladesh.

He also warned against provocation of defeated forces and called for unity in building a new Bangladesh.