Leaders and activists of the Jashore district unit of the BNP and its affiliated bodies put up a massive show of strength on the streets of Dhaka on Saturday, centring on a reception and a series of programmes organised to mark the homecoming of BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman.

Thousands of party leaders and activists from Jashore poured into the capital under the leadership of Anindya Islam Amit, BNP’s nominated candidate for the Jashore-3 constituency in the 13th parliamentary election and the party’s acting organising secretary of the national executive committee. Their presence turned key stretches of the city’s roads vibrant and charged with slogans.

Defying the biting cold, the Jashore BNP leaders and activists spent the night under the open sky in and around areas adjacent to Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. Despite the overnight stay, there were no signs of fatigue among them. Instead, driven by the anticipation of welcoming their leader, they took to the streets with renewed enthusiasm from early morning.

From the morning onwards, leaders and activists of the Jashore district BNP, alongside its affiliated organisations—Jubo Dal, Chhatra Dal, Swechchhasebak Dal, Krishak Dal and Mahila Dal—joined orderly processions and rallies carrying party flags, banners and festoons. Their chants echoed across the 300 Feet Road and surrounding areas of the capital.

Addressing the gathering, Anindya Islam Amit said the historic moment had arrived after a long journey marked by movements, struggles, sacrifices and repression. “The return of our leader Tarique Rahman is not merely a political event; it is a significant milestone on the path to restoring democracy,” he said.

He added that leaders and activists from Jashore had consistently played a leading role in every movement and programme of the party, and the massive turnout on the streets of Dhaka was a clear reflection of that commitment. “Neither the cold, nor hardship, nor distance could deter us from our objective,” he said.

Amit further said that by observing the programmes peacefully and in a disciplined manner, the BNP had once again demonstrated its belief in democracy, the rule of law and the rights of the people. “Today’s streets stand as testimony to that commitment,” he added.

Expressing firm optimism, he said Jashore’s leaders and activists would remain at the forefront of future movements and organisational activities, and urged everyone to continue observing party programmes with discipline and restraint.