DHAKA, Dec 9, 2025 (BSS) - BNP Standing Committee Member Nazrul Islam Khan today said the people of Bangladesh are eagerly awaiting a free, impartial, and participatory national election. "After the fall of fascism in the country, the foremost task now is to organize a free and fair parliamentary election,’ he said. He made the remarks while speaking at the inauguration of the third day of the BNP's seven-day programme titled 'Plan for Nation Building' at the Krishibid Institution Bangladesh (KIB) Convention Hall in Dhaka.  The senior BNP leader warned that no new conspiracies would succeed. "The people who defeated the 15-year oppressive government will not allow any new plots to succeed," he said. Nazrul Islam Khan also highlighted that BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has formulated a long-term plan for state governance, based on a thorough understanding of the country's economic capacity and the needs and aspirations of the people.  "The plan is designed to ensure progress and prosperity, drawing on domestic and international experience, the trajectory of developing nations, and the spirit of Bangladesh's independence," he added. Citing a recent Prothom Alo survey, he said 66 percent of respondents believed BNP would win the most seats in the upcoming election. "Twenty-six percent considered Jamaat a potential force, while other parties received less than one percent support," he noted, adding that the BNP is moving forward respecting this public sentiment. Nazrul Islam Khan pointed out that despite large infrastructure projects being undertaken, basic public needs remain unmet. "While the number of millionaires is rising, millions continue to fall below the poverty line every year. This cannot be called development," he said. He further noted that although education levels are rising, job opportunities remain limited, healthcare is unequal, women's dignity and security are not fully ensured, and religious institution officials face financial insecurity. He added that Tarique Rahman's long-term plans aim to address these inequalities and build a "skilled, honest, and capable nation." He urged party leaders to communicate these plans in the people's language, using local examples credibly. Citing BNP's historical contributions, he said Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman launched the agricultural revolution, industrial growth, overseas employment initiatives, the ready-made garment industry, and multi-party democracy.  Following this, Begum Khaleda Zia implemented landmark changes in women's education, local governance, revenue reform, VAT, and social protection. "The BNP never makes unrealistic promises. It acts when necessary and is the most experienced party in governance," he said, emphasizing that BNP's experience is vital in running the state efficiently. Highlighting the party's achievements, he noted the re-establishment of democracy, press freedom, judicial independence, and national unity. "If BNP voted to power, it will implement practical development programmes focused on people's welfare, just as it has done in the past," he added. Urging party activists, he said, "Inform people about BNP's positive achievements and future plans instead of criticizing other parties. History proves that when BNP governs, positive change occurs in the country."  

RAJSHAHI, Dec 9, 2025 (BSS)- Speakers at a participatory meeting here today unequivocally called for ensuring climate-adaptation training and financial inclusion for women in the drought-prone Barind region. The adverse impact of climate change caused by global warming has been posing a serious threat to the overall living and livelihood conditions of the marginalized women in the region, particularly in its vast Barind tract. Climate change has been acknowledged as a major threat to humanity in the region, leading to the depletion of natural resources, and has urged policy planners and others concerned to take immediate and effective measures to address the adverse impacts. The meeting on "Leadership Development, Gender Inclusion and Climate Justice" was organized by the DASCOH Foundation under its project "Gender Equality Transforms Climate Action (GETCA)," with support from the Swiss Embassy in Bangladesh and Global Affairs Canada. Participants, including members of the Climate Advocacy Forum (CAF), discussed strategies to build local-level leadership, strengthen community resilience, and ensure inclusive climate policies. CAF President Afzal Hossain chaired the meeting, which was addressed by Vice-President Foyzullah Chowdhury, General Secretary Advocate Syeda Shamsunnaher Mukti, and executive members Akbarul Hassan Millat, Ashraful Haque, and Hasinur Rahman. District Coordinator of GETCA Project Modon Das said the 30-month project is being implemented in 18 unions across Tanore, Godagari, and Charghat upazilas.  The speakers emphasized the need to ensure active participation of women and youth in shaping climate policies to address the growing impacts of climate change in the Barind tract. They said climate change poses severe threats to the livelihoods and living conditions of women and other marginalized groups, making their leadership and voices essential for climate justice and policy planning. The initiative seeks to foster partnerships among civil society groups, empower community leaders, and strengthen dialogue between citizens and government representatives for more inclusive policies. Speakers highlighted that frequent droughts in the Barind region exacerbate women's hardships, as they spend longer hours collecting water from dwindling sources.  This situation, they said, worsens sanitation and hygiene, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases, particularly for women and children. The discussants unanimously stressed the importance of equipping women with resources, information, and decision-making authority to enhance resilience against climate change.  They also noted that women are disproportionately affected by climate-induced challenges like drought, water scarcity, and food insecurity. The participants called for ensuring women's involvement in sustainable agriculture, water management, and healthcare access to protect livelihoods and reduce vulnerabilities.