"Agents of various dominant powers are still engaged in conspiracies. We must remain patient. We have to exercise caution," BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman told the massive crowd at a reception for him in Dhaka today.
Calling on supporters not to respond to any form of provocation, Tarique said that just as the nation achieved independence in 1971, people from all walks of life once again came together to protect Bangladesh's independence and sovereignty in 2024.
"Today, the people of Bangladesh want to regain their right to speak. They want to get back their democratic rights," he said. "The time has come for all of us to build the country together. This country belongs to people of the hills and the plains, Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists and Christians. We want to build a safe Bangladesh, where every woman, man, and child can leave home and return safely."
Referring to the killing of Osman Hadi, Tarique said Hadi wanted people of the country to regain their economic rights. "If we are to repay the debt of the blood of those who were martyred in 1971 and 2024, we must build the Bangladesh we all dream of," he said.
The BNP leader said the young would lead the country in the future and stressed the need to ensure a democratic Bangladesh with a strong economic foundation.
Referring to Martin Luther King Jr's historic "I have a dream" speech, Tarique said, "I have a plan." He said he has plans to build the country and that cooperation from every citizen is necessary to implement those plans.
At the reception, he also asked everyone to pray for the recovery of his mother, BNP Chairperson and former prime minister Khaleda Zia.
"Together we will work and build our Bangladesh," he said, expressing gratitude to all present.