Tarique to visit rivals today in unity gesture

BNP chief's outreach to Jamaat, NCP leaders signals push for post-election reconciliation

FE Team | Published: February 14, 2026 23:35:14

FE REPORT
In a move party leaders describe as a message of unity and democratic maturity, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairman Tarique Rahman is set to visit the residences of key political rivals this (Sunday) evening.
The planned courtesy calls on Shafiqur Rahman, Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, and Nahid Islam, Convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP), are being viewed as part of a broader effort to foster a more respectful and cooperative political culture following the recently concluded parliamentary election.
The BNP public relations team confirmed the development on Saturday evening, saying Mr Rahman is scheduled to call on Dr Shafiqur Rahman at 7:00pm before visiting Mr Nahid Islam at his residence later in the evening.
Party insiders said the visits form part of an initiative to promote a new political culture in Bangladesh - one that values mutual respect among competitors in the aftermath of electoral contests.
In several constituencies, newly elected candidates have already demonstrated similar gestures.
In Jhenaidah-1, newly elected MP Md Asaduzzaman presented flowers to his Jamaat-e-Islami opponent and pledged to work together, emphasising that "victory and defeat are part of elections, but our bond of brotherhood must remain intact".
In Dhaka, Barrister Arman paid a courtesy visit to his opponent Tuli at her home, exchanging greetings and acknowledging the spirit of democratic competition.
In Baufal, winning candidate Shafiqul Islam Masud also visited his defeated rival, assuring cooperation for the development of the constituency.
In at least 10 to 12 constituencies, victorious and defeated candidates met cordially after the polls.
Political observers view these exchanges as encouraging signs of reconciliation and constructive engagement, contrasting with the confrontational practices often associated with past elections.
According to the BNP PR team, Mr Rahman's visits are intended to reinforce that emerging trend at the national level.
Speaking at a post-election press conference at a city hotel on Saturday, Mr Rahman stressed the importance of unity and cooperation.
"On the journey towards building a safe, humane and democratic Bangladesh, I seek the cooperation of all, regardless of party or opinion," he said.
He also acknowledged that electoral competition may have led to misunderstandings or disagreements in some areas. "I urge everyone to ensure that such disputes do not escalate into revenge or retaliation," he added.
Mr Rahman emphasised that justice would be the cornerstone of his government's efforts to uphold the rule of law.
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