STAFF CORRESPONDENT

BNP Chairman and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman last night instructed party leaders to stand by the people in addressing the country’s ongoing problems, saying people across the country are looking to the party with high expectations.

“People are looking at the party with many hopes. So all leaders and activists here, and across the country, must remain patient and stay within the bounds of law and order,” he said.

“There are many problems in the country. We have to explain things to the people, stand by them, and help them remain patient.”

Tarique made the remarks from the second-floor balcony of the BNP central office in Naya Paltan while addressing leaders, activists, and supporters of the ruling party.

It was his first visit to the office since taking office as prime minister, and he spent around two hours there.

At about 7:20pm, Tarique got out of his car and entered the office, waving at supporters and activists.

At the entrance, BNP Standing Committee member and Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed welcomed him as thousands of leaders and activists greeted him with applause and slogans.

The large gathering had halted traffic in the area since the afternoon.

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