Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has expressed a firm commitment to building a democratic and prosperous Bangladesh, reflecting the sacrifices of martyrs and the aspirations of public.
Delivering his closing speech during the first session of the 13th National Parliament on Thursday, Tarique called for consensual cooperation from the opposition to move the country forward through dialogue.
‘Scorching seat’ of governance
In an emotional and policy-driven address, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman described the office of the head of government as a “scorching seat.”
He remarked that while the chair may appear comfortable from a distance, it is a difficult position where he feels the “intense heat” of responsibility at every moment.
The prime minister emphasised that his role requires taking “right” decisions rather than merely “popular” ones.
“If we chase popular decisions, we may receive applause, but the country will suffer in the long run,” he said, urging fellow Members of Parliament and opposition friends to focus on correct decision-making.
Call for cooperation
Highlighting the importance of a successful legislature, the Tarique made a direct appeal to the opposition for unity. “Your failure means my failure, and if any one of us fails, the whole of Bangladesh will fail,” he stated.
Tarique urged the opposition to move away from the “competition of making each other fail” and instead work together to make the Parliament a success.
Demonstrating a liberal approach toward parliamentary democracy, the prime minister noted that the offer to appoint a Deputy Speaker from the opposition remains open. He also mentioned his personal visit to the residence of the leader of the opposition to seek cooperation.
Tarique further requested the Leader and Deputy Leader of the Opposition to submit lists of problems in their respective areas for swift resolution.
Commitment to education and health
The prime minister pledged a radical transformation of the education sector, citing his observations of advanced schooling environments abroad. He announced that starting this July, primary school students would be provided with school bags, uniforms, and shoes.
Underlining the importance of female education, Tarique noted that while tuition fees were previously waived up to the 12th grade under Begum Khaleda Zia’s leadership, the current government has decided to make education free for women up to the degree level.
Additionally, the government is working to allocate approximately 5 per cent of the total budget to education. Regarding healthcare, he stressed that having hospital buildings is insufficient; there must be a guarantee of doctors, equipment, and medicine.
Economic and environmental challenges
Addressing the nation’s economic state, Tarique revealed that the government has commenced its term under the challenge of a 30-lakh crore taka debt burden. He warned that without a stable government and parliament, such crises cannot be overcome.
To support the rural economy and agriculture, the government has introduced “Farmer Cards,” which will eventually reach all levels of farmers, including those in the fisheries and livestock sectors. “Family Cards” have also been launched to strengthen the rural economy.
On environmental issues, the prime minister highlighted the severity of waterlogging and falling groundwater levels.
He announced plans to restart the historic canal-digging programme initiated by former president Ziaur Rahman to refill groundwater levels, noting that the benefits of such a project might take 20 years to fully realise.
Responsive governance
Tarique cited the government’s swift response to recent flooding and waterlogging in Chittagong, Netrokona, Kishorganj, and Sunamganj as evidence of its accountability.
He noted that the state minister for local government and the relief minister were directed to take immediate action and prepare lists of affected farmers to provide assistance.
Concluding his speech, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman said political debates alone would not satisfy the hunger of the people or comfort the mother of a sick child.
“People do not want debate; they want solutions to their problems,” he said, calling on both sides to work shoulder to shoulder to build a self-reliant Bangladesh.
