BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman. File Photo

SYLHET, Jan 21, 2026 (BSS)- Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) will formally begin its election campaign tomorrow from Sylhet, a city enriched with the memories of Hazrat Shahjalal (R) and numerous Sufis. 

On the occasion, BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman will address a rally at the historic Alia Madrasa ground in Sylhet city, which will be his first public rally outside Dhaka since assuming the role of the BNP chairman. 
At the same time, he will speak at a public gathering in Sylhet after nearly 22 years. 

In 1978, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman addressed a rally at Alia Madrasa ground, and in 2013, late Begum Khaleda Zia, former BNP chairperson, also spoke there. 

As Tarique Rahman is expected to address a huge rally at 10:00 am tomorrow, a stage was set up on the eastern side of the Alia Madrasa ground. 

The stage was built with a length of 80 feet, a width of about 30 feet, and a height of 6 feet.

From this afternoon, crowds of enthusiastic leaders and activists were seen gathering in front of the stage.

Meanwhile, all-out preparations have been taken by the BNP units of Sylhet and Sunamganj to welcome Tarique Rahman. 

A festive atmosphere prevails among the local leaders and activists of BNP and its affiliated organisations centering on his arrival.

Even today, processions and leaflet distributions were organised in the Sylhet city by the BNP and its affiliated bodies to welcome Tarique Rahman. 

Party insiders said they are expecting a mammoth gathering. They said extensive campaigns are underway, while local BNP leaders have visited the venue several times to oversee overall preparations, including stage installation, sound systems, volunteer teams, and vehicle parking arrangements.

After two decades, Tarique Rahman’s visit to Sylhet has generated great enthusiasm among party men and general people. 

To welcome him, welcome banners and festoons have been installed at important points across the Sylhet city.