BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Saturday urged the country’s democratic forces to unite, warning that failure to do so could pave the way for the emergence of a covert dictatorship.

He made the remarks virtually while addressing the Comilla South District BNP Conference at Town Hall Field, Comilla. The conference was held after 16 years.

Tarique Rahman said, “If we and other democratic forces fail to unite, a covert dictatorship could emerge, similar to how authoritarianism took root through the so-called 2008 elections and the events of One-Eleven. We must act in accordance with the wishes of the people. Above all, Bangladesh comes first—this is our starting point and our ultimate goal.”

He called on party leaders and activists to focus on action rather than rhetoric, emphasizing the conference slogan: Unity, People, and Reconstruction. “Our leaders and activists are mobilizing thousands of people. Many have been imprisoned or gone missing in the struggle. We must advance together, reaching every home and conveying the message of standing by the people,” he said.

Speaking as the main guest, BNP Standing Committee member Salauddin Ahmed criticized the ruling Awami League, calling its history one of plunder. “Since the country’s independence, 2.8 trillion taka has been misappropriated. The loans taken in previous authoritarian regimes could have built 40 Padma Bridges. The banking sector is burdened with 5 lakh crore in defaulted loans. During the July uprising, 1,400 people were killed, thousands maimed. We must ensure justice, though the process may be long. Elections cannot be delayed,” he said.

Salauddin Ahmed also criticized politicizing religion. “Islam is not a quota for politics; it should not be used for political gain. Some claim they will offer tickets to heaven—Nauzubillah. We must preserve the spirit of the 1971 liberation struggle,” he said.

The conference was inaugurated by BNP Vice Chairman Barkat Ullah Bulu. Special guests included Chairperson’s Advisors Monirul Haque Chowdhury and Aminur Rashid Yasin, Organizational Secretary Principal Selim Bhuiyan, Industries Secretary Md. Abul Kalam, and Co-Organizational Secretary Md. Mostak Mia. The event was presided over by Comilla South District BNP Convener Zakaria Taher Sumon, with Secretary Ashiqur Rahman Mahmud VP Wasim serving as master of ceremonies.

During the conference, Zakaria Taher Sumon was officially announced as president and Ashiqur Rahman Mahmud Wasim as general secretary of the district BNP.