Rakib Hasan
Prime Minister and BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has called upon party leaders, activists, and supporters to unite and work with renewed dedication to ensure the success of the government and fulfill the aspirations of the people of Bangladesh. Speaking at a discussion organized by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) to commemorate the 45th martyrdom anniversary of the party’s founder, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, Tarique Rahman emphasized that the government’s primary objective is to implement the promises outlined in the party’s election manifesto and build a prosperous, democratic, and self-reliant nation.
The discussion was held at the Krishibid Institution Bangladesh (KIB) auditorium in Dhaka on May 31 and was attended by senior BNP leaders, government officials, academics, and distinguished guests. The event served not only as a tribute to the legacy of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman but also as an opportunity for the Prime Minister to outline the government’s priorities and future direction.
Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, Tarique Rahman stated that the current government is inspired by the philosophy and ideals of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman. He reaffirmed that the administration remains committed to fulfilling the hopes and expectations of the people through the implementation of BNP’s election manifesto, which received overwhelming support from voters in the February 12 election.
According to the Prime Minister, the manifesto represented a comprehensive roadmap for national development and social progress. He noted that the people of Bangladesh carefully evaluated the party’s vision before casting their votes and ultimately entrusted the BNP with the responsibility of implementing its promises.
Tarique Rahman emphasized that following the election victory, the BNP’s manifesto became more than just a party document-it transformed into the people’s mandate. Therefore, he said, it is the government’s duty to translate those commitments into reality through effective governance and responsible leadership.
One of the central themes of Tarique Rahman’s speech was the importance of vigilance and collective responsibility during what he described as a crucial and difficult period for the country.
He cautioned party leaders and activists that significant challenges lie ahead and warned against complacency. According to him, any negligence or lack of commitment at this stage could result in long-term consequences for Bangladesh and future generations.
The Prime Minister stressed that while individuals may not immediately feel the effects of policy failures or political mistakes, the nation as a whole could suffer irreversible damage. Therefore, he urged everyone within the BNP to remain disciplined, focused, and committed to national interests.
His remarks reflected a broader message that governing a nation requires continuous effort and sacrifice beyond the excitement of electoral victory.
Throughout his speech, Tarique Rahman paid tribute to the contributions of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and highlighted his enduring influence on the party’s policies and ideology.
He described Ziaur Rahman as a visionary leader who sought to make Bangladesh self-reliant by gradually strengthening every sector of the economy and society. According to Tarique Rahman, the principles and guidelines established by the former President continue to shape the BNP’s development agenda.
The Prime Minister explained that many of the policies included in the election manifesto were inspired directly by Ziaur Rahman’s vision of economic growth, national sovereignty, and people-centered governance.
He urged party members to work collectively toward building the Bangladesh envisioned by Shaheed Zia and to remain faithful to the values that made him one of the country’s most influential leaders.
Tarique Rahman acknowledged that the government alone cannot achieve national development goals. He highlighted the importance of grassroots participation and emphasized that success depends on the combined efforts of party workers, supporters, and citizens across the country.
Referring to the government’s parliamentary strength and cabinet composition, he noted that even with hundreds of elected representatives and ministers, meaningful progress would remain difficult without public support and organizational commitment.
He encouraged BNP leaders and activists at all levels to actively promote and support government initiatives. According to him, a successful government is not built solely by ministers and lawmakers but through collaboration between political leadership and dedicated grassroots workers.
The Prime Minister particularly praised the role played by BNP’s affiliated organizations, including Chhatra Dal, Jubo Dal, Swechchhasebak Dal, Mohila Dal, Lawyers’ Forum, Tanti Dal, and Sramik Dal during the election campaign.
He credited their hard work and dedication for helping secure the party’s victory and urged them to maintain the same level of commitment during the implementation phase of governance.
Another major focus of Tarique Rahman’s address was the restoration of democratic values and institutional strength.
He argued that many of the aspirations associated with Bangladesh’s Liberation War remained unfulfilled and expressed concern over what he described as the weakening of democracy, justice, education, and healthcare over the past seventeen years.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed his government’s commitment to reversing that trend by strengthening democratic institutions, improving access to quality education and healthcare, and ensuring a fair justice system.
He described the current administration as a political government with a clear ideology, policy framework, and development vision. Unlike temporary or transitional administrations, he said, the BNP government has been elected with a specific mandate and therefore bears the responsibility of delivering tangible results for the people.
In addition to discussing political and economic issues, Tarique Rahman highlighted the importance of family education and social values in building a healthy society.
He expressed concern about what he perceives as a decline in family-based education and moral guidance. After returning to Bangladesh, he observed changes in social behavior and emphasized the need to strengthen family and community values.
The Prime Minister revealed that relevant authorities have already been instructed to work on initiatives aimed at reinforcing social responsibility, ethical conduct, and family-based learning.
He suggested that sustainable national development requires not only economic progress but also strong social foundations rooted in cultural and moral values.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment to preserving the legacy of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman.
Reflecting on his father’s international reputation, Tarique Rahman stated that Ziaur Rahman played a significant role in introducing Bangladesh to the world and strengthening its global standing. As his son, he said, he feels proud of the respect and recognition that Ziaur Rahman continues to receive.
Marking the 45th anniversary of the former President’s martyrdom, Tarique Rahman called on party members to pledge themselves to national service and responsible governance.
He highlighted the success of political movements and electoral achievements in recent years, noting that these accomplishments would only gain lasting significance if the government succeeds in implementing its promises and improving the lives of ordinary citizens.
Tarique Rahman’s address at the BNP-organized memorial discussion combined tribute, reflection, and a call to action. By emphasizing the importance of unity, discipline, democratic governance, and grassroots participation, he sought to rally party members behind the government’s development agenda.
His speech underscored the BNP government’s commitment to implementing its election manifesto while drawing inspiration from the ideals of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman. As Bangladesh moves through what he described as a critical period in its history, Tarique Rahman’s message centered on collective responsibility, national development, and the pursuit of a prosperous future for generations to come.
