Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, BNP’s former secretary general and presidential candidate, became emotional and cried several times while delivering a farewell address to the party’s parliamentary group on Wednesday. The meeting, chaired by Prime Minister and BNP chairman Tarique Rahman, was held in the government party meeting room at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban and lasted about an hour and a half. Fakhrul asked party lawmakers to pray for him and vote for him in Thursday’s presidential election.

Fakhrul recalled late BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia and party founder and former president Ziaur Rahman, while thanking Tarique Rahman. He apologised for any mistakes or unintended hurt during his years serving as senior joint secretary general, acting secretary general and secretary general. He said he would protect the honour and responsibility given by the party and would not compromise on national independence and sovereignty.

Tarique Rahman called the day historic, urged lawmakers to elect Fakhrul and stressed unity and discipline. He also warned MPs against losing contact with local party members ahead of local government elections, which he said would be held without party symbols.