“The opposition has destroyed my stage; I am now delivering my speech standing in the car.”

In a dramatic turn of events in Brahmanbaria-2 constituency—which encompasses Sarail, Ashuganj, and parts of Bijoynagar—former BNP leader and ex-Assistant Secretary for International Affairs, Barrister Rumin Farhana, claimed that his campaign stage was demolished by political rivals. Speaking to supporters on Monday, 5 January, Farhana revealed that he had no choice but to address the crowd while standing atop his own car.

At the Aruail market, Farhana expressed his frustration:

“They had set up a stage for me at Aruail College ground, but my opponents destroyed it. Today, I was compelled to visit your homes door to door, and in the end, I am speaking to you standing on my car.”

Despite the setback, he urged voters to deliver justice in the upcoming election on 12 February. “God willing, if you elect me as your Member of Parliament once again, I will transform the infrastructure of these two upazilas, including roads, bridges, and culverts,” Farhana pledged.

After addressing the Aruail gathering, he proceeded to the Pakshimul Union, where he reassured constituents of his commitment to truth and justice. “There is nothing to fear from Rumin Farhana on your land. Since 5 August last year, I have openly opposed extortion, lawsuit rackets, and coercive practices that plague communities across Bangladesh,” he said. Farhana continued, emphasising that while speaking truth may be palatable in opposition, it is often bitter when addressed from within the government. He insisted that his focus remains on confronting unlawful land grabs, sand mining, and unfair commercial practices—issues he has highlighted consistently over the past year despite warnings to remain silent.

Election Context and Party Developments

Farhana, who had sought the BNP’s nomination for Brahmanbaria-2, was overlooked in favour of Allama Junayed Al Habib of Jamaat-e-Ulema-e-Islam Bangladesh, the alliance’s chosen candidate. Rejecting the party’s decision, Farhana is now contesting as an independent. On 30 December, both he and SN Tarun De were expelled from the BNP National Executive Committee due to their decision to run against the party’s endorsed candidate.

Despite the political turbulence, Farhana’s message remains firm: a pledge to speak truth, oppose corruption, and bring tangible development to his constituency—regardless of the obstacles imposed by rivals or party authorities.