Thousands of activists flooded Dhaka's Naya Paltan and nearby areas on Wednesday as three wings of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) -- Jubo Dal, Swechhasebak Dal and Chhatra Dal -- gathered for a rally demanding the political rights of the country’s youths.
The gathering extended beyond Naya Paltan, where the party's central office is located, spilling over east to Fakirapool, west to Kakrail intersection and south to Bijoynagar, filling the streets with crowds of party members.
With the rally scheduled to begin at 2pm, leaders and activists began arriving from various districts under the Dhaka, Sylhet, Faridpur, and Mymensingh with processions in the morning.
BNP acting chairperson Tarique Rahman is scheduled to address the event virtually from London as the chief guest.
In preparation for the rally, the BNP’s central office and surrounding areas were decorated with colourful displays over the past few days.
Large banners and festoons featuring images of Ziaur Rahman, Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman adorn the area, creating a festive atmosphere among party activists.
To connect with youths, the three affiliated bodies of the BNP had declared a series of programs throughout May.
They held seminars and rallies over eight days, spending two days each in major cities.
Previous events were organized in Chittagong, Khulna and Bogra. The final event is being held in the capital.
Special guests scheduled to speak at the rally include BNP Standing Committee members Dr Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain, Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan, Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury and Salahuddin Ahmed.
The rally will be presided over by Jubo Dal President Abdul Monayem Munna, with speeches also expected from Swechhasebak Dal President SM Jilani, Jubo Dal General Secretary Mohammad Nurul Islam Nayan and Chhatra Dal President Rakibul Islam Rakib.
