BNP chief Tarique says Bogura’s reputation must remain untarnished

He seeks prayers for conducting himself in a manner that allows people to take pride in him

Tarique Rahman has arrived in his home constituency of Bogura following a day of campaign rallies across the north.

The long-deprived Bogura will finally receive its "just rights”, he said, issuing a firm reminder to supporters: "Bogura’s reputation must not be tarnished."

Addressing an election rally at the Altafunnesa playground around 11pm on Thursday, the BNP chief sought the prayers and backing of the local electorate.

Tarique’s motorcade departed Naogaon for Bogura around 7pm.

Thousands of party activists lined the roads for hours to welcome him, resulting in significant traffic delays.

It took more than four and a half hours longer than scheduled to reach the venue due to the sheer volume of crowds.

After touring the streets within his constituency, Tarique arrived at the Altafunnesa ground at 10:45pm to a din of slogans.

He, joined on stage by his wife Zubaida Rahman, greeted the crowd. The event began with a special prayer for the late former BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia.

Supporters from various wards converged for the Bogura-6 rally, some bringing musical instruments to campaign for their candidate.

This marks Tarique’s first visit to Bogura since returning from London on Dec 25, following nearly 18 years in exile.

He is contesting both the Bogura-6 and Dhaka-17 seats in the general election.

During the late-night rally, the BNP chairman introduced the party’s local candidates: Kazi Rafiqul Islam (Bogura-1), Mir Shahe Alam (Bogura-2), Abdul Muhit Talukdar (Bogura-3), Mosharraf Hossain (Bogura-4), Golam Mohammad Siraj (Bogura-5), and Morshed Milton (Bogura-7).

Addressing his supporters, he said: "Please pray that I may conduct myself in a way that allows you to take pride in me."