BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has called on the people of the country to vote for the party’s election symbol, the sheaf of paddy, citing the strength of BNP as essential for the restoration of democracy and the improvement of citizens’ lives.

Speaking at an election rally in Sherpur, Moulvibazar, on Thursday afternoon, Tarique urged voters to back the sheaf of paddy.

“Back in 1971, one party betrayed the country, and over the past 16 years, another party has done the same. To save the nation, initiate democracy, and change the fate of the people, we must cast our votes for the sheaf of paddy,” he said.

He also criticised a political faction whose actions, he claimed, had been witnessed 50 years ago. “They go to the homes of innocent mothers and sisters, selling tickets to paradise. This is not mere hypocrisy; it is outright idolatry. They killed people in 1971 and are now misleading many into idolatry,” he added.

Tarique warned voters against parties that exploit religious sentiment before elections. “Those who deceive people using religious feelings before voting, think about how they will exploit them once in power,” he cautioned.

The rally, which began around noon, drew party leaders and activists from all seven upazilas of the district. By early afternoon, Sherpur’s Ainpur ground was packed with supporters, who arrived in multiple processions.

Leaders and activists from Moulvibazar Sadar, Rajnagar, Kulaura, Juri, Barlekha, Kamalganj, and Sreemangal upazilas attended the event. Tarique Rahman also introduced the BNP-nominated candidates for the district’s four constituencies to the audience.