Elaine Bhutto Calls for Building Self-Reliant Nation Under Tarique Rahman

Jhalakathi-2 lawmaker Israt Sultana Elaine Bhutto has called upon citizens and party activists to unite and build a self-reliant Bangladesh under the leadership of BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman.

She made the remarks as the chief guest at a discussion meeting held on Saturday afternoon at the Government Nalchiti Merchants Secondary School auditorium. The event was organized to mark the 45th death anniversary of BNP founder and former President Ziaur Rahman.

Describing Ziaur Rahman as a visionary statesman, Elaine Bhutto highlighted his enduring popularity and his foundational role in national development and public welfare. She noted that while his assassination was an attempt to derail the country’s progress, his wife, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, successfully steered the nation toward democratic restoration. She added that Tarique Rahman is now carrying that legacy forward.

"My late husband, Zulfiquer Ali Khan Bhutto, dedicated his life to the development of the people in Jhalokati and Nalchiti," she told the gathering. "I am working hard to complete his unfinished grassroots initiatives. To fully realize a self-reliant nation, we need everyone’s active cooperation."

Presided over by Nalchiti Upazila BNP President Advocate Anisur Rahman Khan Helal, the meeting was also addressed by former Jhalokati District BNP Advisor Golam Mustafa Chalu as a special guest. Local leaders from the Jubo Dal, Chhatra Dal, and Sramik Dal also spoke at the event, which concluded with special prayers for the departed souls of Ziaur Rahman, Zulfiquer Ali Khan Bhutto, and the good health of Khaleda Zia.