Prime Minister and BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman yesterday pledged to preserve unity among the political parties that joined the simultaneous anti-fascist movement.

He said his government would always put people’s interests ahead of political considerations.

“We have been together all these years. There is no reason that we will part ways now. We have stood together for so long, and we will continue to stand together in the days ahead,” he said.

Tarique made the remarks at a courtesy meeting and dinner at state guesthouse Jamuna with leaders of the parties that participated in the movement alongside the BNP.

Responding to concerns raised by some alliance leaders, he said he understood their sentiments and frustrations. “I do not disagree with what our senior colleagues have said. They are my seniors, and as a younger brother, I respect their views. I sincerely express my regret if there have been any shortcomings,” he said.

He urged the alliance partners to remain patient, saying the government must first meet people’s expectations.

Tarique said differences of opinion were natural in politics and should not be viewed as divisions. Although parties may have different views on implementing parts of the 31-point reform agenda, he said they remained united by a common goal.

He said the government would continue working to implement the 31-point state reform agenda and the July National Charter.

Tarique said his government inherited a country with a damaged economy, weakened institutions and administrative challenges created by remnants of the previous regime.

He said the government had already started implementing key commitments of the BNP-led alliance’s 31-point reform agenda, which he described as a programme endorsed by the people.

“Many political parties now talk about reforms, but when we announced the 31-point reform plan, they remained silent…,” he said.

Without naming any party, he criticised what he called a “covert force” that was claiming credit for the anti-autocracy movement despite not taking part in the street protests.

The prime minister said the government had worked to provide relief to people despite difficulties. He mentioned initiatives such as waiving agricultural loans of up to Tk 10,000, introducing the Farmers’ Card and Family Card, and advancing reforms in health, education and expatriate welfare.

He admitted that progress had not moved as quickly as expected due to obstacles within the administration but expressed confidence that public support remained with the government and the parties that joined the movement.