State Minister for Social Welfare Farzana Sharmin on Wednesday called on lawmakers to rise above personal and partisan interests and fulfil the commitments made to the people to achieve the goal of nation-building.
“Standing in this great parliament, we want to commit ourselves. Rising above all self-interests in the work of nation-building, let us fulfil the oath we have taken before the people. Then we can return to them,” she said while taking part in the discussion on the motion of thanks on the President’s speech on Wednesday. Deputy Speaker Kayser Kamal presided.
Recalling her own political experience, the state minister said once upon a time, freedom of expression was limited, and people had to sacrifice their lives to speak. She informed that she had referred to the then prime minister Sheikh Hasina as “so-called Prime Minister” on a live television programme.
“I have done many talk shows; now is the time for ‘work-shows’,” she said. “There is accountability to the people. I want to return to them and give an account.”
Emphasising the progress of youth and women in national development, Farzana Sharmin said every region of the country must be advanced for overall progress.
“We are working for the people, and we will continue to work for the people in the future,” she added.
Regarding political inspiration, the state minister mentioned that she did not have the direct opportunity to learn politics from former president Ziaur Rahman. However, she noted that she had the opportunity to learn politics from former prime minister Khaleda Zia.
Expressing confidence in the current leadership, the state minister said that due to skilled leadership, the country will move forward on the right path even in adverse situations.
The state minister expressed optimism that collective effort, accountability and responsibility to the people would help transform Bangladesh into a developed and prosperous nation.
