In first public political speech: Zubaida Rahman pledges equality, dignity of labour

Staff Reporter :

Zubaida Rahman, wife of BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, made her first public speech at a political programme on Tuesday, pledging to promote equality, merit-based employment, justice and respect for labourers as central principles of governance.

She was speaking at a views exchange meeting with professionals organised by the BNP Election Steering Committee at the Hatirjheel Amphitheater.

The event brought together professionals from various sectors to share concerns and policy ideas ahead of the national election.

Acknowledging the country’s challenges, Zubaida Rahman said the problems facing Bangladesh could be addressed through thoughtful planning and collective effort. “We all face many problems, but these can be solved through proper planning. Our politics is the politics of proper planning,” she said.

She emphasised the importance of ensuring dignity and fairness for all citizens, stating that BNP aimed to guarantee equal opportunities, merit-based jobs and justice. “We want to give everyone the dignity of labour, merit-based employment, rights and justice, and equal opportunities for all,” she said.

Highlighting a people-first vision of the state, Zubaida Rahman said governance should prioritise citizens over individuals in power. “We want to build a society and a state where the people come before the leader. By putting people first, we will work together to develop the country,” she added.

Addressing the professionals present at the meeting, she thanked them for their participation and for sharing their concerns. She said such engagement was essential to shaping fair and inclusive policies.

“You have given us your valuable time and shared your problems. We will continue to listen and learn so that we can address issues fairly and build a state based on equality, knowledge and the dignity of labour,” she said.

The speech marked Zubaida Rahman’s first public address at a political event since her return to Bangladesh. While she has previously appeared at programmes alongside her husband, this was the first time she directly addressed an audience at a political gathering.