Tarique Rahman Pledges Support for Korail Residents, Unveils Pro-People Initiatives

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Tuesday pledged continued support for residents of the Korail slum, promising concrete steps to improve their living conditions and reaffirming his commitment to pro-people politics.

Speaking at a milad and doa mahfil organised by Korail residents at the T&T Colony field in Mohakhali, Tarique recalled his personal connection to the area. “The house where I grew up after independence was demolished and flattened by an autocratic government. You saw it with your own eyes. I am now your son. I will stand by you and the people of this area,” he said.

The prayer gathering was held seeking divine blessings for the late BNP Chairperson and former prime minister Khaleda Zia. Tarique’s wife, Zubaida Rahman, was also present. The event was led by Abdu Salam, chief coordinator of BNP’s election steering committee for the Dhaka-17 constituency.

Describing Khaleda Zia’s political legacy, Tarique said she dedicated her life to public welfare and stressed that BNP’s politics centres on improving the quality of life for ordinary people. He announced several future initiatives, including the introduction of a Family Card to support women in household management and a Farmers’ Card for farmers.

Highlighting inequality faced by slum children, Tarique said they must receive the same access to education, healthcare and sports facilities as children living in high-rise buildings. “Children from Korail must have equal opportunities-good schools, healthcare and playgrounds,” he said.

He also outlined plans for planned housing in Korail, promising that long-term residents would be given ownership of flats in multi-storey buildings. Additional commitments included building two schools and playgrounds, establishing healthcare facilities, and creating opportunities for education, sports and foreign language learning.

Ahead of the upcoming polls, Tarique sought prayers from residents of the Dhaka-17 constituency, particularly Korail dwellers. Referring to his family legacy, he said he is the son of late President Ziaur Rahman and Khaleda Zia, and reiterated that BNP’s politics is for ordinary people.

“As long as Allah grants me life, I will stand by the people of Korail,” he said.

Several BNP leaders, including the party’s chief election agent Abdus Salam, Professor Farhad Halim Donar and Aminul Haque, attended the programme. Later in the evening, Tarique was scheduled to attend another prayer gathering at the BNP Chairperson’s Banani residence and formally launch his election campaign on Thursday with visits to the shrines of Hazrat Shah Jalal (RA) and Hazrat Shah Paran (RA) in Sylhet.