Dhaka: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Tuesday called on citizens to stay vigilant against conspiracies aimed at undermining the nation’s rebuilding efforts, emphasizing the need to transition from protest to action in order to fulfill the aspirations of the people.
According to United News of Bangladesh, speaking at an event marking the 2nd anniversary of the July Revolution, Rahman stressed that the success of the July uprising is a collective achievement of the Bangladeshi people, rather than the triumph of any individual or political party. He reiterated his government’s dedication to rebuilding the nation and safeguarding democratic rights, which have been hard-won through sacrifices.
“There have been movements, struggles, discussions, and debates. Now is the time to rebuild the country and move it forward. We must patiently and calmly remain alert to those who want to create conspiracies and make the people aware of such attempts,” Tarique Rahman urged.
Organized by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the discussion titled “Seventeen Years of Relentless Struggle for Democracy and the Blood-soaked July Awakening” was held at the Krishibid Institution Bangladesh in the capital. The event was chaired by BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir.
The Prime Minister outlined the government’s plans to gradually implement rebuilding strategies previously presented to the public. “The people now want us to deliver on our promises. They want peace on the streets, education for their children, healthcare, security, and employment or business opportunities according to their abilities. This is what the people expect,” Rahman stated.
He also highlighted the public’s desire to exercise political rights appropriately, cautioning against misleading narratives surrounding the July movement. Rahman emphasized that the success of the movement is attributed to the united efforts of the people across all walks of life.
Reflecting on the movement’s history, Rahman noted that BNP and other democratic parties have consistently supported the people throughout the past 17 years, in their struggle against what he described as an authoritarian regime. “The July-August movement succeeded because the people wanted change,” he asserted.
The Prime Minister reiterated that the overarching goal of democratic movements in Bangladesh’s history has been to establish the people’s political and economic rights, including freedom of speech, expression, and fair electoral processes, alongside ensuring economic security.
Rahman detailed the BNP’s reform proposals, which evolved into a 31-point state reform agenda with input from other political parties. “The people endorsed the reform proposals by giving BNP a mandate in the last election. This is no longer BNP’s 31-point agenda. It has become the people’s 31-point agenda,” he remarked.
Addressing economic challenges, Rahman explained that the government inherited a fragile economy and is actively working to overcome issues, including energy shortages. Efforts are underway to negotiate gas imports from Myanmar and secure LNG supplies from Malaysia’s Petronas, with a potential boost of 4,000 megawatts to the national power grid.
He criticized the previous government’s reliance on foreign companies for energy exploration, pledging to strengthen Bangladesh Petroleum Exploration and Production Company Limited (BAPEX) by enhancing domestic exploration capabilities.
Rahman underscored the importance of investing in youth through education and cultural activities to deter them from harmful influences. He urged party leaders to prioritize public service over personal gains, committing to fulfilling the government’s promises.
In conclusion, Rahman assured support for those affected by the July movement and paid tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for the nation’s democratic and liberation causes.