BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman has stated that even after the fall of authoritarian rule, a group operating under secret identities has emerged as a new force of oppression, continuing the same culture of intimidation, humiliation, and abuse of power that once characterized autocratic governance. Speaking at a massive election rally at Bells Park ground in Barishal city, he said that Bangladesh must and will be governed by the people’s mandate, and that the upcoming election will allow citizens to establish a truly accountable government. However, he expressed deep concern that after August 5, the same language and behavior once used by autocrats to belittle citizens, insult intellectuals, and suppress dissent are now being replicated by these covert political actors. Tarique Rahman accused leaders of these groups of using openly derogatory and offensive language against women, warning that such conduct poses a serious threat to the dignity, safety, and respect of mothers and sisters across the country. He emphasized that any political leadership that fails to respect women cannot be expected to uphold human dignity or build a humane state. Referring to a controversial statement by a local leader of one such group, he said the remark that they would beg at the feet of voters before the election and force people to bow to them afterward clearly reveals their contempt for the public and exposes the dangerous mindset driving their politics. Tarique Rahman cautioned that if these forces were to gain power, the lives of ordinary citizens would become unbearably difficult, making it imperative for people to remain vigilant and deliver a decisive response through the ballot. He argued that history proves these groups have consistently aligned themselves with authoritarian regimes, standing against the people in 1971, throughout subsequent political transitions, and over the past fifteen years, demonstrating that they are merely two sides of the same coin. Addressing regional issues, he highlighted river erosion as Barishal’s most pressing challenge and stressed the urgent need for durable embankments, noting that many development projects initiated during BNP-led governments were left incomplete due to autocratic rule. He assured that if the people vote for Dhaner Sheesh 🌾, these unfinished projects would be completed and long-standing problems resolved through sincere governance. Tarique Rahman also asserted that no nation can progress by confining women to their homes, emphasizing that true development requires men and women to work side by side. He warned that the misogynistic and divisive rhetoric of these secretive groups reflects a mentality that would lead to greater repression and hardship if they were to come to power. Concluding his speech, he called on citizens to exercise their voting rights responsibly, reject forces of oppression and intolerance, and stand for democracy, dignity, and development to build a just and respectful Bangladesh.