Tarique Rahman Emphasizes 1971 Liberation War as the Foundation of Bangladesh

Dhaka: Tarique Rahman, Acting Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), delivered a strong statement on Monday, asserting that the existence of Bangladesh cannot be imagined without the historic events of 1971. His remarks come in the wake of recent protests last year, during which some attempts were reportedly made to undermine the legacy of the Liberation War, including challenges by Muhammad Yunus and his supporters.

Speaking at the BNP Chairperson’s political office during a meeting with leaders of the leftist coalition, Democratic United Front (DUF), Tarique Rahman said, “The Liberation War is the cornerstone of Bangladesh’s statehood and politics. The country’s existence without 1971 is unimaginable.”

He further highlighted the importance of leveraging the new political realities that emerged after recent uprisings. “All parties, including the government and opposition, must work together to advance the nation,” he added, stressing national unity and the need to strengthen democratic institutions.

Leftist leaders who attended the meeting shared that Tarique Rahman expressed concern over the law and order situation in the country. He emphasized the importance of ensuring free, fair, and credible national elections and called for collective unity among all political forces.

Political analysts have predicted that following upcoming elections, BNP is poised to emerge as the largest party, potentially securing more than 150 seats. BSD General Secretary Bajlur Rashid Firoz reaffirmed Tarique Rahman’s position, stating, “The 1971 Liberation War is our foundation. Without it, Bangladesh’s existence would not have been possible.”

Tarique Rahman’s remarks underline a reaffirmation of the country’s historic roots and the ongoing political significance of the Liberation War in shaping Bangladesh’s democratic future.