Dhaka, January 6 – Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarik Rahman has emphatically stated that the 1971 Liberation War against Pakistan forms the very foundation of Bangladesh’s existence as a nation. Speaking during a meeting with leaders of the leftist Democratic United Front (DUF) at the BNP Chairperson’s office in Dhaka, Rahman underscored that without the sacrifices of 1971, envisioning Bangladesh today would be impossible.
Local media reports quoted Rahman as saying, ‘The Liberation War is the bedrock of Bangladesh as a state and its political framework. The country’s existence cannot be imagined without 1971.’ Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS), the state news agency, carried his remarks.
Rahman highlighted the new political realities emerging from recent mass uprisings, urging all stakeholders to harness these opportunities. ‘To propel the nation forward, the government, opposition, and all forces must collaborate,’ he emphasized. Stressing national unity, he called for leveraging the current political window to fortify democratic institutions.
The meeting also saw DUF leaders expressing condolences over the passing of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia on December 30. Discussions touched on the prevailing law and order situation, with Rahman voicing serious concerns, according to leftist leaders present.
Rahman renewed his appeal for unity ahead of fair, independent, and credible national elections. Post-meeting, Bazlur Rashid Firoz, General Secretary of Bangladesh Socialist Dal (BSD), reiterated Rahman’s stance: ‘Upon returning on December 25, he clarified in his speeches that the Liberation War is our foundation. Without it, Bangladesh wouldn’t exist.’
Rahman ended a 17-year self-imposed exile on December 25, arriving at Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport with his wife Zubaida Rahman and daughter Jaima Rahman via Biman Bangladesh Airlines.
His return coincides with the Election Commission’s announcement of the 13th National Parliamentary Election and a referendum on the July Charter scheduled for February 12 next year. Analysts view Rahman’s participation in the 2026 polls as a critical test for the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, amid mounting pressure for impartial elections.
As Bangladesh navigates this transitional phase, Rahman’s words resonate as a call to honor the Liberation War’s legacy while building a united, democratic future.