Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Wednesday declared a firm stance against the siphoning of money abroad, saying public funds must be used for the welfare of citizens and the development of the country.
The prime minister said that from now on, the government would adopt a strict stance against individuals involved in laundering money from the country and those attempting to transfer public funds abroad, while speaking at the inauguration of the third phase of the Family Card distribution programme held at Victoria High School ground in Sreemangal.
He stressed that public money belongs to the people and should be used to improve their lives and livelihoods. He also called on citizens to remain alert so that national resources cannot be misused or transferred abroad illegally.
He said that if citizens remain alert and vigilant, it would be impossible for anyone to transfer the country’s assets abroad.
Emphasising collective effort, he added that the government and people must work together to use such resources to improve people’s lives, noting that public unity is crucial in preventing financial wrongdoing.
Addressing the gathering, which included tea workers and local residents, he asked whether they would stand with the government in its efforts. The audience responded in unison with a “yes.”
Calling for collective national commitment, he said, “Let our pledge on this joyous day be one thing- work for the country and put Bangladesh first.” He also introduced a new slogan, “We will work, we will build the country. Bangladesh first, Bangladesh for all.”
The prime minister said that over the past 17 years, public money had been siphoned abroad instead of being used for public welfare, alleging that it was done by a political group.
Responding to questions over the funding of welfare initiatives such as Family Cards and Farmers’ Cards, he said such programmes are financed through public funds and there will be no shortage of resources.
“People’s money will be spent on the people. It will be used for development and improving lives,” he said.
The programme, organised by the Ministry of Social Welfare, began with recitations from the Holy Quran and other religious scriptures. The national anthem and BNP party song were also played at the event.
The prime minister personally handed over Family Cards to 10 women representing beneficiary families before inaugurating the third phase of the programme by pressing a button.
He also distributed Tk2 lakh each as housing support for tea workers, scholarships for their children, and financial assistance for persons with disabilities.
Referring to ongoing welfare initiatives, he said Bangladesh is both the first and last address of its citizens, adding that the government’s sole objective is to improve people’s living standards.
“We must build this country ourselves. The 40 crore hands of our 20 crore people must become productive hands. Only then can we transform Bangladesh,” he said.
The prime minister also cautioned against what he described as misinformation regarding government welfare programmes, saying some groups were attempting to create confusion over initiatives like Family Cards and Farmers’ Cards.
He noted that allocations for such programmes are included in the proposed 2026–27 national budget, and criticised those labeling the budget as anti-people despite tax relief on 60 essential goods.
He called for vigilance, warning that attempts to stir unrest could hamper ongoing welfare programmes, including assistance for tea workers, students, persons with disabilities, and tax relief initiatives.
He said that if those seeking to create instability are given space, it would become difficult to sustain such programmes.
The prime minister emphasised that unity among citizens is crucial for sustaining development and protecting democracy, adding that no conspiracy would succeed if people remain united.
He also said that pro-democracy forces had historically worked in unison despite differences, while the BNP had always remained aligned with the people.
Recalling political history, he said late BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia had always stayed close to the people during difficult times.
“Bangladesh was her first and last address. We are the soldiers of Khaleda Zia,” he added.
State Minister for Social Welfare Farzana Sharmin, Moulvibazar district BNP Convener Faizul Karim Mayun, lawmaker Mujibur Rahman Chowdhury, Additional Secretary Kamal Uddin Biswas, and beneficiaries Shiuly Rani Das and Wajeda Begum also spoke at the programme, which was chaired by Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Minister AZM Zahid Hossain.
