Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday called on citizens to exercise austerity across all sectors to help manage the ongoing fuel crisis, while assuring that there is no need for public concern.
Speaking at the Independence Award ceremony held at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the capital, he said the government is working to maintain stability despite global economic pressure caused by the ongoing war situation.
He noted that although fuel prices, including diesel, have increased in many countries, Bangladesh has not raised prices to avoid public hardship. The government, he said, is continuing to provide substantial daily subsidies in the fuel and energy sector to keep the fuel crisis manageable.
“I assure the people that there is no reason to panic,” the prime minister said, urging restraint in both official events and household spending.
He added that the government remains committed to public welfare and is making all possible efforts to maintain economic stability, as it is accountable to the people.
Call for national unity
The prime minister also urged citizens to avoid extravagance in state functions and personal life, calling for collective restraint to ease pressure on national resources.
He further called for unity, warning against revenge, hostility, and unnecessary disputes. Differences of opinion, he said, should not turn into enmity, and national unity is essential for building a prosperous Bangladesh.
Government priorities
Outlining his government’s priorities after assuming office through the 12 February election, he said the administration inherited a fragile economy affected by corruption, weak governance, and a deteriorating law and order situation.
He said restoring law and order and ensuring strict control over corruption remain top priorities. He also highlighted employment generation as a major challenge, given the country’s large working-age population.
The prime minister added that education sector reforms are underway to make the system more modern and employment-oriented, while stressing that ensuring women’s safety is essential for national progress.
Commitment to reforms
Reaffirming his government’s agenda, the prime minister said all commitments outlined in the election manifesto and the “July Charter” would be implemented “step by step.”
He said mindset change is more important than structural reform and expressed confidence in fulfilling all pledges made to the people.
Independence Award ceremony
Earlier, the prime minister conferred the Independence Award-2026 on 15 individuals, including former prime minister Khaleda Zia (posthumously), and five institutions in recognition of their contributions to national development.
He also paid tribute to former president Ziaur Rahman, recalling that he introduced the Independence Award in 1977.
The Cabinet Division earlier announced the list of awardees on 5 March through a press release.
The ceremony was conducted by Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Ghani. Among those present were prime minister’s spouse Zubaida Rahman, daughter Zaima Rahman, Khaleda Zia’s sister Selima Islam, cabinet members, senior political leaders, MPs, judges, chiefs of the armed forces, diplomats, and senior civil and military officials.
Award recipients Jobera Rahman , Professor Sukomal Barua, and PKSF Chairman Zakir Ahmed Khan also spoke at the event.
The Independence Award, the country’s highest civilian honour, was introduced in 1977 and is presented annually on 26 March in recognition of outstanding contributions to the nation.
