BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman today spoke as the chief guest at an election rally in support of BNP candidate for Dhaka-8 constituency Mirza Abbas in Motijheel. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Feb 09, 2026 (BSS)- BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman today said his party would adopt a “zero-tolerance policy” toward corruption and take strict measures to restore law and order if it comes to power through a people’s mandate.

“If BNP forms the government, our first task will be to strictly control law and order. We want to build a country where mothers and sisters can move safely, people can work and do business without fear, and citizens can sleep peacefully at night,” he said.

Speaking as the chief guest at a election rally in support of BNP candidate for Dhaka-8 constituency Mirza Abbas at Pirjangi Mazar Road in Motijheel Tarique Rahman said ensuring public safety would be his top priority.

Reiterating his commitment to fight corruption, the BNP chairman said there would be no compromise on this issue.

“Just as Begum Khaleda Zia took initiatives against corruption in 2001, BNP will continue to work to curb corruption. The law will take its own course, and no one will be spared,” he added.

Criticizing rival political forces, Tarique Rahman said many leaders make “big promises” from the stage but lack concrete plans to govern the country.

“Running a state is not easy. You need a clear plan, programmes and experience. Where are their plans and programmes? We have already seen the consequences of misgovernance,” he said.

Highlighting BNP’s development agenda, he said women, who make up half of the population, must be actively involved in national progress. 

He mentioned the proposed ‘Family Card’ programme, under which housewives of hardworking families would receive monthly financial assistance to achieve economic reliance.

Referring to the agricultural sector, Tarique Rahman said farmers are the backbone of the country. If BNP comes to power, agricultural loans up to Taka 10,000 would be waived along with interest.

He also outlined plans to create employment opportunities for young people through vocational, technical and ICT-based institutions, aiming to make every citizen economically self-sufficient regardless of political affiliation or social background.

Tarique Rahman urged the voters of Dhaka-8 constituency to elect a local candidate who understands the area’s problems. 

He described Mirza Abbas as a leader who grew up in the constituency and pledged that he would stand by the people throughout his life.

At the end of the rally, Tarique Rahman asked the audience whether they would vote for BNP. In response, audiences chanted slogan they would vote for Paddy Sheaf all day long on February 12.