Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has said that a democratic and accountable political system naturally ensures the protection of ecosystems.

He made the remarks on Sunday while virtually addressing as chief guest at the exhibition “Prani O Praner Milan Mela” (Festival of Animals and Life), held at China-Bangladesh Friendship Conference Center in Dhaka.

The event was organized by the Bangladesh Animal Welfare Association.

Tarique Rahman stressed that protecting animals is not only a moral obligation but also essential for biodiversity, ecological balance, and a sustainable human future. “Just as democracy safeguards human rights, ecosystem protection is vital for ensuring the rights of animals and wildlife,” he said.

Highlighting the interdependence of species, he noted that frogs, for example, play a vital role in naturally controlling the spread of Aedes mosquitoes, which transmit dengue fever. Similarly, creatures like dragonflies, fireflies, butterflies, and bees are integral to ecological harmony.

The BNP leader expressed alarm at the rapid decline of wildlife in Bangladesh. Citing past surveys, he said the number of Royal Bengal Tigers in the Sundarbans has dropped from nearly 500 in the 1980s to around 100 today, while elephants have fallen to below 200. “Out of 1,600 species of animals in Bangladesh, about 390 are already on the verge of extinction,” he warned.

Tarique attributed this crisis to population pressure, climate change, unplanned urbanization, deforestation, wetland encroachment, and wildlife trafficking. He pledged that if BNP assumes office, it will update and strengthen laws such as the Animal Welfare Act 2019, Wildlife Conservation and Security Act, and various biodiversity and environmental protection laws.

He further remarked, “Losing democratic rights has made many of us intolerant. To overcome this, let us commit to humanity over brutality. If we can secure human rights through democracy, we will also become more mindful of protecting the rights of all other creatures.”