Tarique Rahman, acting chairman of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has said that any individual or political party, including the Awami League, must be held accountable under the law if found guilty of wrongdoing.

In an exclusive interview with BBC Bangla, he stressed that justice must not be misconstrued as revenge. "Anyone who commits injustice—be it an individual or a party—must face justice. This is not about vengeance; it is about justice, about upholding the law," he stated.

Tarique Rahman was responding to questions regarding the BNP’s position on the future of the Awami League in the aftermath of the “July mass uprising” and whether the ruling party should be allowed to continue its political activities.

Reflecting on his time in exile, Tarique Rahman recounted his departure from Bangladesh 17 years ago following alleged torture during the 2007–08 military-backed caretaker government. 

"I came abroad for medical treatment. When I left, I had to leave behind my younger brother, my healthy mother, and the home we grew up in—filled with memories of our father and our children," he said emotionally. 

"That house has since been reduced to rubble. The brother I left behind is no longer alive. My mother, once healthy, is now gravely ill and has endured both mental and physical torture," Tarique Rahman added. "This is not just my story or my family’s—it is the story of thousands of families across Bangladesh."

He described a harrowing pattern of abuse, citing cases of family members dying in handcuffs—whether in hospitals or in jail—and properties being confiscated or destroyed. "Those responsible for these injustices—those who ordered them—must face justice. This is a matter of law and fairness, not personal vendetta."

Tarique Rahman asserted that if the Awami League, as a political entity, committed acts of repression or corruption, it should be held accountable. “If a party is guilty of wrongdoing, the law must take its course. In simple terms, the wrongdoer—whether a person or a party—must be brought to justice.”

Asked whether the Awami League should be allowed to remain in the political sphere, Tarique Rahman was cautious but firm. “We do politics for the people. We believe, and have always said, that the BNP derives all its political legitimacy from the people. I cannot believe that a party or individuals who are involved in killings, enforced disappearances, corruption, and the looting of national wealth can enjoy public support.”

“If the people do not support a political party or organisation, then I see no reason for it to survive. We believe in the power of the people, in their decision-making. And ultimately, the people are the highest judge in such matters,” he concluded.

SMS/