Tarique pledges trials for all killings, repression in ‘anti-fascist’ movements if BNP returns to power

The BNP leader says justice is essential to prevent future injustices in Bangladesh

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has pledged that his party will ensure justice for all killings and repression in the July-August Uprising and other “anti-fascist” movements if it returns to power.

Speaking virtually at an Iftar event in Dhaka’s Gulshan, organised by BNP Amar Poribar in honour of families who lost members to enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings, Tarique said future governments must prioritise justice for victims of political repression.

"Whoever leads Bangladesh in the coming days, whichever party governs, one of their key agendas must be justice for those who suffered repression while fighting for people's rights," he said.

He stressed the importance of fair trials, warning that failure to prosecute past injustices could lead to future transgressions.

"At any cost, these trials must be conducted properly. If we fail to ensure justice, the country may witness further injustices," he said.

Tarique insisted that punishing wrongdoers would serve as a lesson and reinforce the rule of law.

"It is crucial that the victims get justice and that the nation recognises wrongdoers as wrongdoers. Those who defy justice must face punishment."

‘BNP WILL ENSURE TRIALS IF ELECTED’

The BNP leader reaffirmed his party’s commitment to justice if it is elected.

"If the people of Bangladesh give BNP the opportunity to govern, we will not only implement our political agenda but also prioritise justice for victims of repression—especially those affected by the July-August movement and ‘anti-autocracy’ struggles," he said.

"God willing we will ensure justice for those who were tortured, those who were martyred, and those who lost their lives unjustly," he added.

Addressing the victims' families, Tarique urged them to stay hopeful.

"If we remain united and continue raising our voices against injustice, we will succeed in ensuring justice.

“I firmly believe that all pro-democracy parties will stand together on these fundamental issues—democracy, individual freedom, and justice for victims," he said.

Expressing optimism for Bangladesh’s future, he added: "We firmly believe and hope that we can build the Bangladesh we aspire to."