Photo: Collected

DHAKA, Oct 25, 2025 (BSS) - A discussion meeting was held at the world-renowned University of Oxford on the recently published book “Tarique Rahman: Politics and Policies- Contemporary Bangladesh”, which explores the political thoughts and strategies of BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman.

Speakers at the event said that there is no alternative to Tarique Rahman’s visionary leadership to achieve the desired goal of democracy and build a fascism-free Bangladesh, said a press release received here today.

The book was authored by Mohammad Zainal Abedin, US-based journalist and editor of The Weekly Runner.

The event took place on Friday (October 24) at Exeter College Auditorium of Oxford University, organized by the Oxford Bangla Society. Apart from Oxford students, Bangladeshi students from other UK universities also attended.

Speakers noted that the book highlights Tarique Rahman’s ideas and plans for establishing democracy and human rights in Bangladesh.

The discussion featured former British diplomat Sir Peter Heap, international human rights activist Dr. Shahidul Alam, and former MP Zahir Uddin Swapan.

The keynote paper was presented by Dr. Manjida Ahmed, a lecturer at the Department of Law, Middlesex University.

Dr. Shahidul Alam said that Tarique Rahman’s political vision emphasizes people’s participation and accountability, two elements he considers crucial for the future democratic transition of Bangladesh.
Former British diplomat Sir Peter Heap observed that positive change in Bangladesh’s politics requires balanced international relations and diplomatic wisdom.

During an interactive session, Zahir Uddin Swapan and Dr. Shahidul Alam responded to various questions from Oxford students regarding BNP’s political program and Tarique Rahman’s policy framework.

Presenting her keynote paper, Dr. Manjida Ahmed said that Tarique Rahman’s reform-oriented leadership inspires hope for the younger generation.

She remarked that even while in long-term exile, Tarique Rahman has remained deeply connected with the party’s grassroots, showing strong awareness of issues like economic growth, sustainable development, and national progress.

His vision, she said, is to transform Bangladesh into a self-reliant and economically strong nation.

Dr. Manjida added that Tarique Rahman rejects the politics of vengeance, aiming instead to build a just and equitable society where there is freedom of expression and democratic rights.

She highlighted that Tarique Rahman has already proposed a 31-point reform plan giving the outline for a new, democratic, and modern Bangladesh.

Citing Tarique Rahman’s recent interview with the Financial Times (UK), Dr. Manjida mentioned that he envisions transforming Bangladesh into a hub for global e-commerce platforms such as Amazon and eBay.

She emphasized that Tarique Rahman’s political philosophy is rooted not in revenge, but in the promise of building a “rainbow nation” based on justice, freedom, and progress.

Former MP Zahir Uddin Swapan said Tarique Rahman’s 31-point reform plan provides a new direction for Bangladesh’s political and economic structures.

The event was jointly moderated by Oxford University students- Oxford Bangla Society President Ahmed Muhtadi and Saimur Mujib Rahman.