Dhaka, February 14. In the wake of Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s (BNP) resounding victory in the 13th parliamentary elections, party chairman Tarique Rahman issued a stern call on Saturday to maintain law and order at all costs. Addressing a packed press briefing in the capital, Rahman emphasized the collective responsibility in rebuilding a secure and humane nation.
Rahman, poised to become Bangladesh’s next Prime Minister following the BNP’s absolute majority, declared that every citizen must play a pivotal role in the country’s reconstruction. ‘We need everyone’s cooperation to build a safe and humane Bangladesh,’ he stated firmly. ‘No injustice can be tolerated under any pretext. Law and order must be upheld under all circumstances.’
He delivered a clear warning against any form of violence, retaliation, or provocation, asserting that such actions would not be tolerated. ‘My stance is crystal clear—peace and order will be maintained at any price. No injustice or illegal activity will be accepted. Attacks on the weak by the strong, based on party, religion, color, or differing ideologies, are unacceptable in any situation,’ Rahman added.
Labeling the election results as ‘the victory of the people,’ Rahman credited the nation’s freedom-loving citizens for propelling BNP to power. In the February 12 polls, BNP secured 209 out of 297 seats, with results withheld in two Chittagong constituencies where its candidates are leading. Allies of the party clinched three more seats.
Jamaat-e-Islami emerged as the second largest party with 68 seats, followed by nine seats for allies in its 11-party coalition. Islami Andolan Bangladesh won one seat, and seven independents triumphed in their areas.
After nearly 35 years, Bangladesh is set to have a male Prime Minister. Experts warn that Rahman’s incoming government will face formidable challenges, including quelling unrest and combating rising Islamic extremism. The interim government under Muhammad Yunus over the past 18 months witnessed heightened instability and militancy.
Rahman’s message sets a tone of unity and discipline as Bangladesh embarks on a new political era, with hopes pinned on restoring stability and fostering inclusive growth.