Dhaka, Feb. 6 -- BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has pledged to give the "utmost priority" to curbing corruption and establishing the rule of law and accountability if his party wins the general election.

He warned that without taking stern measures in these three sectors, no national plans can be successfully implemented.

Tarique made this commitment on Friday during the unveiling of the BNP election manifesto, where he also defended his party's record against graft allegations dating back to the 2001-2006 term.

The manifesto, built on the promise of creating a "humane, inclusive, and accountable state", focuses on nine priority areas.

The party chief described the document not merely as a set of election pledges, but as a declaration of...