Key focus areas highlighted in BNP election manifesto

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has unveiled its election manifesto ahead of the 13th national parliamentary election, with party Chairman Tarique Rahman formally announcing the document.

The manifesto was unveiled at a programme held at Hotel Sonargaon in the capital at 3:30pm on Friday.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir presided over the programme, while party Standing Committee member and Election Steering Committee chairman Nazrul Islam Khan conducted the event.

Divided into five chapters, the manifesto presents a comprehensive roadmap covering state governance, the economy, society, culture and region-based development.

The first chapter places emphasis on reforming the state system. It outlines commitments to restoring democracy, upholding the spirit of the Liberation War and the July mass uprising, constitutional reforms, national unity, good governance, judicial independence, police reform and strengthening the local government system.

The second chapter focuses on ensuring equitable economic and social development. Key priorities include poverty alleviation, social protection, women’s empowerment, agriculture and food security, nationwide employment generation, education and healthcare, welfare of workers and expatriates, environmental protection, climate resilience and disaster management.

The third chapter addresses plans for rebuilding and recovering the fragile economy. It highlights boosting investment, reforming the banking and financial sectors, developing industry and services, strengthening the power and energy sector, information and communication technology, transport infrastructure, the creative economy and revenue management.

In the fourth chapter, the manifesto outlines plans for balanced regional development. It includes proposals to develop Chattogram as a commercial capital, advance development in haor, baor and coastal regions, improve urbanisation and housing, build a safe and sustainable Dhaka, and promote the tourism sector.

The fifth and final chapter focuses on religion, society, sports and culture. Commitments include promoting religious harmony, ensuring the rights of people in hill tracts and plains, developing sports, safeguarding media freedom, promoting arts and culture, and restoring strong moral values in public life.

The 13th Jatiya Sangsad election and a referendum are scheduled to be held on 12 February.