Kamrul Hasan: In Bangladesh’s evolving political landscape, the BNP-led democratic movement appears to be gaining renewed momentum. Afroza Khanom Rita, Member of the BNP Chairperson’s Advisory Council and Convenor of the Manikganj District BNP, has said that there is no alternative to the party’s Acting Chairman, Deshnayak Tarique Rahman, in establishing the people’s fundamental rights and reforming the state structure. Speaking at a social gathering in Raillya under Saturia upazila of Manikganj on Saturday (November 1), Rita emphasized that Tarique Rahman’s visionary leadership is essential for restoring democracy, protecting national sovereignty, and strengthening the BNP’s organizational base. Earlier, she took part in a mass outreach program as part of the campaign to promote Tarique Rahman’s proposed “31-Point Framework for State Reform.” Rita’s statement is being seen as a significant message in the context of local politics. After years in opposition, the BNP is now focusing on rebuilding its grassroots network and regaining public trust through the implementation of the 31-point reform agenda. Central leaders are placing particular emphasis on women’s active political participation and leadership at the local level. The event was presided over by Abul Kashem, Member-Secretary of the District Road Transport Workers’ Party, and conducted by Advocate Enamul Haque Enam. Among others who addressed the gathering were Upazila BNP President Abdul Quddus Khan Mojlish Makhon, General Secretary Abul Bashar, District Workers’ Party President Abdul Kader, BNP leader Abdul Karim, General Secretary of the Jatiyatabadi Shaheed Zia Projonmo Dal Manikganj District Unit Motaleb Hossain, and Joint Convenor of the Upazila Jubo Dal Md. Abdur Rashid, along with leaders of various affiliated organizations. “Safeguarding national sovereignty, ensuring the people’s fundamental rights, and strengthening the organization under the guidance of Deshnayak Tarique Rahman are now BNP’s core objectives,” said Rita. “Through the implementation of the 31-point reform plan, we can truly rebuild the state structure and fulfill the party’s national commitment.” She added, “Under Tarique Rahman’s far-sighted leadership, the combined movement of the BNP and the people has toppled autocracy. What we now need is to transform the spirit of that movement into sustainable development. National reconstruction is possible only by upholding the ideals and patriotism of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman.” Rita further remarked, “As part of fulfilling the people’s 17-year-long aspirations, the interim government has decided to hold the national election in February 2026. Yet a certain quarter is conspiring to derail the process in the name of a so-called ‘PR system.’ For the sake of the country’s welfare, this evil force must be resisted through unity.” According to political observers, Afroza Khanom Rita’s remarks reflect not only her effort to inspire grassroots activists but also a broader signal of BNP’s organizational revival and the growing role of women in leadership. After years of political repression, the BNP is once again reaching out to the people, with the 31-point reform agenda emerging as the blueprint of its political renewal. The event concluded with special prayers for the salvation of departed souls, the speedy recovery of BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, and the good health and longevity of Deshnayak Tarique Rahman, as well as for the welfare of the nation. In Manikganj’s political circles, Rita’s visit and speech are being viewed as part of the BNP’s preparations for the upcoming election and a fresh chapter in the party’s organizational resurgence at the local level.