KHULNA, Feb 18, 2026 (BSS) - Leaders of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in Khulna have congratulated party Chairman and newly appointed Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on forming the government, hailing the outcome of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad elections as a decisive victory.

In a statement issued Tuesday night by the city BNP media cell, the leaders said the new government was formed through 'long struggle and sacrifice' aimed at safeguarding citizens' voting rights and freedom of expression.

They expressed confidence that under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's leadership, the country has entered 'a new chapter of democracy, justice, and good governance.' The statement highlighted the government's commitment to creating an inclusive, transparent, and accountable administration while addressing previous democratic challenges.

The BNP leaders said the government would work to restore public confidence by ensuring judicial independence, strengthening the rule of law, and promoting political stability.

They also expressed hope that the cabinet would take timely measures to tackle economic challenges, including controlling inflation, generating employment, attracting foreign investment, and revitalizing industries to build a sustainable and resilient economy.

Highlighting regional development priorities, the statement said Khulna's overall progress would receive special focus. Proposed initiatives include expanding tourism around the Sundarbans, constructing sustainable coastal embankments, creating jobs for youth, reopening long-closed mills and factories, expanding gas supply, and establishing new economic zones to stimulate regional growth.

The leaders wished the prime minister and the cabinet good health, longevity, and success, expressing confidence in the government's ability to build a prosperous, democratic, and equitable Bangladesh.

Signatories of the statement included BNP National Executive Committee Student Affairs Secretary and MP Raqibul Islam Bakul, Information Affairs Secretary and MP Azizul Bari Helal, MP Ali Asgar Lobi, MP Amir Ejaaz Khan, Khulna City BNP President Advocate Shafiqul Alam Mona, District Convener Moniruzzaman Montu, City General Secretary Shafiqul Alam Tuhin, and Acting Member Secretary Monirul Hasan Bappi, among others.