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surrounding districts by bus and truck, carrying party flags and wearing colourful caps and T-shirts. Small processions, some accompanied by music bands.

“We must stay together, because when we stayed together, we achieved independence. When we stayed together, we removed autocracy. If we stay united in the days ahead as well, then we will surely be able to take Bangladesh towards the future Bangladesh we hope for.

“So, let today’s election rally be our pledge that we will turn this Bangladesh into a people’s Bangladesh.”

At the rally, 24 party candidates placed several demands before him, including the establishment of a university, development of river routes, and modernisation of the railway network.

In reply, Tarique said Mymensingh district hospital would be upgraded and the canals in the area would be re-excavated.

Tarique left Mymensingh at 5:00pm and reached the Bhawal Rajbari Estate in Gazipur around 11:40pm.

As he entered Gazipur, a large number of leaders and activists stood along both sides of the road for about four kilometres to greet him. Because of the crowd, his vehicle was delayed in reaching the venue.

“Will you allow vote robbery this time?” he asked at the rally.

The attendees replied, “No”.

The BNP chief also promised that if the party comes to power, an overpass will be built over the Joydebpur rail crossing, day-care centres will be set up for the children of female workers in garment and other factories, and three canals in the district will be re-excavated.

Tarique was also scheduled to address the last election rally of yesterday in the capital’s Uttara.

[Our Mymensingh correspondent contributed to this report.]