PM pledges rule of law, equal rights for all
Staff Reporter :
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Wednesday delivered his first televised address to the nation, outlining his government’s key priorities and reaffirming his commitment to restoring democracy, strengthening the rule of law, ensuring equal rights, combating corruption, and building a self-reliant and compassionate Bangladesh.
“Governance will not be dictated by party loyalty, political pressure, or force — the rule of law will prevail above all,” he declared in his maiden speech after assuming office. The address was broadcast at 9:45pm on state-run BTV.
The prime minister emphasized that while political affiliations, opinions, religions, and philosophies may differ, the state belongs equally to all citizens.
“Whether you voted for the BNP, voted for another party, or did not vote at all — this government belongs to you equally. As Bangladeshis, we all share the same rights in this country and under this state,” he said.
Tarique Rahman stated that establishing a secure, humane, democratic, and self-reliant Bangladesh remains the central objective of the BNP government.
“We want this nation to be a safe homeland for every citizen — Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, Christians — regardless of political belief, religion, ethnicity, or whether they reside in the hills or plains. This country is ours collectively,” he affirmed.
He pledged that all constitutional, governmental, and non-governmental institutions would function strictly in accordance with existing laws and regulations.
Acknowledging the challenges inherited by his administration, the prime minister said the government has begun its journey amid a fragile economy weakened by corruption and prolonged misrule, a fragile governance framework, and deteriorating law and order conditions.
He identified restoring law and order and eliminating corruption as top priorities to rebuild public confidence and ensure security.
The premier also noted that the spread of gambling and drug abuse has significantly contributed to the worsening law and order situation. Law enforcement agencies, he said, have been directed to take firm action to curb these activities and restore peace in society.
Extending greetings on the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan, he described it as a time for self-purification.
“If we truly embrace the spirit of Ramadan, it should not become a time that increases people’s suffering. Unfortunately, there is often a tendency to seek excessive profit during this sacred month,” he observed.
He urged business leaders to refrain from exploiting Ramadan for undue gain and to ensure that essential commodities remain within the purchasing power of ordinary citizens.
“In exchange for thousands of lives and by dismantling a mafia syndicate, we have taken responsibility for governing with a commitment to restoring the rights of the people,” he stated.
He further vowed to break all syndicates of corruption and irregularities across every sector while balancing the interests of both business owners and consumers.
Despite the challenges, the prime minister highlighted Bangladesh’s immense potential. He stressed that transforming the country’s large population into a skilled workforce would convert it into a powerful human resource base.
“If we develop our skills, not only Bangladesh but the global market will open up to us,” he said.
In the era of artificial intelligence and rapid technological advancement, he emphasized that survival with dignity and prosperity requires specialized knowledge and expertise.
He assured students and youth that the government stands ready to support their intellectual and scientific development and is committed to creating employment opportunities and a favorable working environment.
Addressing public concerns about uninterrupted supply of gas, water, and electricity during Ramadan, he said instructions have already been issued to ensure services during iftar, tarawih, and sehri hours.
He also emphasized the importance of preventing waste and practicing moderation, noting that responsible use of utilities in offices and institutions is part of moral accountability.
Before calling upon the public to practice austerity, he said, the government chose to lead by example. At the very first meeting of the BNP parliamentary party, it was decided that treasury bench members would not import duty-free cars or accept government plot allocations under special privileges.
Referring to his earlier pledge to govern according to the ideals of justice exemplified by the Holy Prophet (PBUH), he said this decision reflects that commitment.
Turning to the issue of severe traffic congestion, particularly in Dhaka, he acknowledged the daily hardships faced by citizens in markets, workplaces, and courts. Without reducing public suffering, peace of mind cannot be restored, he noted.
To ease pressure on the capital, he proposed urgent alternative measures, including comprehensive restructuring and expansion of the nationwide railway network. This would enable people to reside in their home districts while efficiently conducting official and business activities.
As part of this initiative, coordination among the railways, shipping, road transport, and bridges ministries is being strengthened.
“If railway services become accessible, affordable, and safe nationwide, dependence on city-centered living will decrease and environmental conditions will improve,” he said.
Recalling his return to the country after nearly 18 years and his declaration on December 25 that he had “a plan” for Bangladesh, Tarique Rahman said he had presented key elements of that vision during his campaign ahead of the February 12 national election.
By electing the BNP — the party founded by the proclaimer of independence — citizens have entrusted it with the responsibility to govern and implement its vision, he said.
“It is now our duty to fulfill those commitments, and implementation has already begun,” he stated.
“On this journey to honor our promises, we seek your continued support in the days ahead.”