Kamrul Hasan: Mohammad Ayub Khan, BNP leader of Dhaka-19 constituency, General Secretary of the District Jubo Dal, and a key organizer for the “Sheaf of Paddy” (BNP’s electoral symbol), has said that BNP’s Acting Chairman and “Deshnayak” Tarique Rahman is the most capable leader to restore independence, the constitution, and democracy, as well as to uphold the people’s fundamental rights and ensure national welfare.

Speaking as the chief guest at a street rally in Shimulia Union’s Ward No. 8 and 9 of Ashulia Upazila on Sunday night, Ayub Khan made the remarks following a leaflet distribution and mass communication campaign under Tarique Rahman’s 31-point roadmap for state structure reform.

Ayub Khan said, “Under the visionary leadership of Deshnayak Tarique Rahman, the autocratic regime has collapsed in the face of the people’s movement led by the BNP. Now we must transform the fruits of that struggle into sustainable national development. Upholding the ideals of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, we have to continue the nation’s progress.”

He added, “Safeguarding the country’s sovereignty, ensuring citizens’ fundamental rights, and strengthening the organization under Tarique Rahman’s guidance are now BNP’s core objectives. Implementing the 31-point reform plan will make possible the promise of rebuilding the state structure.”

Highlighting the need for party unity, he stated, “Everyone must work together in the interest of the party. Regardless of who receives the nomination, every leader and activist must remain united for the victory of the Sheaf of Paddy. Division weakens us — unity is BNP’s true strength.”

Regarding the upcoming election, Ayub Khan said, “To fulfill the people’s long 17-year expectation, the interim government has decided to hold the national election in February 2026. But a vested quarter is conspiring to derail the election process under the guise of a so-called ‘PR system’. For the nation’s sake, this evil force must be resisted through collective unity.”

He further noted that in the current context of political instability, disenfranchisement, and the need for democratic restoration, Tarique Rahman’s 31-point reform program has created new enthusiasm among BNP leaders and activists. According to him, the successful implementation of this program would establish a people-oriented and accountable government — one that ensures education, employment, justice, and economic equity.

Political analysts observe that Tarique Rahman’s 31-point plan is not merely a political manifesto but a comprehensive blueprint for reforming Bangladesh’s administrative and democratic framework. The plan emphasizes the restoration of parliamentary democracy, judicial independence, electoral reform, decentralized governance, good governance, and the protection of human rights.

At the conclusion of the event, Mohammad Ayub Khan prayed for the speedy recovery of BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, the good health and long life of Deshnayak Tarique Rahman, and sought prayers from all for the peace, progress, and welfare of the country.