Restoring peace and public safety by improving the law and order situation and strictly curbing corruption is the top priority of the government, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman said today (18 February).
“The rule of law will be the final word in governing the state, not by party influence, political power or coercion,” he said in his first televised address to the nation as prime minister tonight.
The prime minister said the government is taking maximum initiatives to ensure peace and security in public life, adding that all constitutional, government and private institutions in Bangladesh will operate in accordance with established laws and regulations.
Tarique also said the government has identified the spread of gambling and narcotics across the country as major contributors to the deterioration of law and order, adding that law enforcement agencies are taking strict measures to control these activities.
Tarique further said the new government has begun its journey amid a fragile economy, weak governance structures and a deteriorating law and order situation caused by corruption and misrule during what he described as a period of fascism.
‘No price hikes in Ramadan’
With Ramadan set to begin today, the PM extended greetings to the nation and urged business leaders not to exploit the holy month for excessive profits.
“Let us not turn Ramadan into a month of profiteering,” he said, calling on traders to ensure that essential commodity prices remain within the reach of ordinary people.
He pledged to dismantle all forms of “mafia syndicates” and irregularities in markets, saying the BNP government is committed to protecting both consumers and businesses.
The government, he added, remains open to suggestions and complaints from traders and consumers alike to maintain market stability.
Utilities and austerity
Tarique Rahman said he has already instructed relevant authorities to ensure uninterrupted gas, water and electricity supplies during Ramadan, especially during iftar, tarawih and sehri hours.
Calling for austerity, he urged both public officials and citizens to avoid wasteful use of utilities.
In a symbolic move, he announced that BNP lawmakers would not import tax-free cars or accept government plots as benefits – a decision taken at the party’s first parliamentary meeting.
“We will follow the Prophet’s ideal of justice,” he said, describing the decision as a reflection of fairness and integrity in governance.
Tackling traffic, infrastructure reform
Addressing chronic traffic congestion, particularly in Dhaka, Tarique said reducing pressure on the capital is essential to easing public suffering.
The government plans to overhaul and expand the national railway system to improve connectivity across the country, allowing people to work and conduct business from their home districts.
As part of this initiative, the functions of the rail, road, waterways and bridge ministries are being reorganised and coordinated.
Improved railway connectivity, he said, would reduce overdependence on urban centres while also benefiting the environment.
Youth, skills technology
Highlighting the country’s demographic potential, the prime minister said Bangladesh’s large population could become a major asset if transformed into skilled human resources.
“The world has entered the era of artificial intelligence,” he noted, urging students and young people to develop expertise and competitiveness in knowledge and technology.
He pledged full government support for education, skill development, job creation and improved working conditions.
‘I have a plan’
Recalling his return to Bangladesh after nearly 18 years abroad, Tarique referenced a pledge he made last December: “I have a plan.”
He said voters had now entrusted the BNP – founded by the proclaimer of independence – with the responsibility to implement its commitments following the February 12 national election.
“We have already begun implementing our plans and promises,” he said, seeking continued public support.
Equal rights for all
Tarique Rahman emphasised that the new government represents all citizens – those who voted for the BNP, those who did not, and even those who abstained.
“Party affiliation and faith belong to individuals; the state belongs to everyone,” he said. “Every Bangladeshi citizen has equal rights in this country.”