The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has identified extensive public involvement and the implementation of election pledges as the most significant achievements during the BNP government’s first 180 days.
Speaking on Monday, PMO spokesperson Mahdi Amin said the administration, led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, is currently rebuilding Bangladesh from the “rubble of 16 years of fascism.”
He noted that the government is moving forward with a deep sense of accountability, upholding the multi-party democracy originally established by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman.
Restoring citizen dignity through simple leadership
The government’s shift away from traditional “VIP culture” was a central theme of the briefing, with the spokesperson noting that the prime minister has successfully integrated himself into the ranks of the general public.
Press Secretary Saleh Shibli recounted how Tarique while travelling on the “Sobar Age Bangladesh” bus, noticed unusually clear roads and immediately instructed authorities to ensure he travels like an ordinary citizen in the future.
This commitment to the common man is further reflected in the prime minister’s “simple and frugal lifestyle,” which includes direct participation in grassroots canal-excavation programmes and visiting the homes of the “oppressed,” such as the family of young Ramisa in Mirpur.
Shibli emphasised that the primary goal has been to establish the honour and dignity of the people within the state and society.
Legislative overhaul, democratic restoration
Significant institutional reforms have been enacted to reflect the aspirations of the July mass uprising, including the conversion of over 100 ordinances into laws during the first parliamentary session.
Notably, an amended anti-terrorism law was used to institutionally ban the fascist political organisation responsible for the previous regime’s oppression.
Mahdi Amin described a vibrant National Parliament where members now engage in spontaneous debate and logical criticism, a marked departure from the past.
He highlighted that the administration has prioritised maximum freedom of speech and human rights, with no instances of political persecution despite various provocations and “indecent behaviour” from certain quarters.
Addressing challenges post-fascism
Addressing the inherent challenges of this transitional period, Amin acknowledged that it is “somewhat difficult to solve 100 per cent of all problems” within just six months of a post-fascist era.
However, he emphasised that the elected government operates with “maximum sincerity, maximum accountability, and responsibility” in every sector to fulfil the democratic aspirations of the people.
The government’s progress has been categorised into ten multi-dimensional work areas, including financial sector reforms, inclusive development, the establishment of justice, and a dignified foreign policy.
The event, held at the Shapla International Conference Centre in PMO, was attended by high-ranking officials, including Political Advisors Nazrul Islam Khan and Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, Minister of Information and Broadcasting Zahir Uddin Swapon, and Principal Coordinator of the PMO Professor SM Abdul Awal.
Other attendees included Foreign Affairs Advisor Humayun Kabir, Information Advisor Zahed Ur Rahman, and Additional Press Secretary Atiqur Rahman Rumon, alongside senior secretaries and journalist leaders.
