The prime minister, Tarique Rahman, on Tuesday said that the July National Charter—as signed by political parties—would be implemented in full and warned that attempts to create instability over the issue would be resisted.
Addressing a rally at Mawlana Bhashani Science and Technology University in Tangail, he alleged that opposition parties kept trying to create anarchy in the country centring the charter implementation.
‘I want to clearly say that the July Charter signed by political parties at the invitation of Dr Muhammad Yunus at the South Plaza of the parliament will be implemented in its entirety—every word, every line and every provision—Inshallah,’ the prime minister said.
He also warned against any attempt to obstruct government public welfare programmes, including canal excavation, Farmers’ Card and Family Card initiatives, saying that the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, along with the people, would resist such moves.
‘What have we seen in the parliament? Those who have received only a small number of votes are now demanding that whatever they say must be accepted,’ Tarique said.
Those who are now in the opposition had been uncertain and in confusion about whether they would sign the July Charter or not, he said. ‘Another party did not even sign at first and only signed after the election.’
He asked, ‘Why did those who raise their voices about the July movement not sign it earlier if they had so much concern?’
The prime minister urged all to remain alert and vigilant against any move to destabilise the country.
‘We must identify those who are being influenced again by the ghost of authoritarianism and who are trying to create unrest and instability in the country,’ he said.
Referring to the Sherpur-3 election and the Bogura-6 by-election held on April 9, Tarique said that there were perhaps one or two minor incidents, but overall, the situation was peaceful.
‘There was no major complaint in any of the national newspapers,’ he said.
‘People are living peacefully and the situation is calm where elections have been held, but tensions are rising around Baitul Mukarram, Tarique said, adding, ‘You are certainly aware of who are trying to destabilise the situation.’
Although authoritarian rule has fallen, its influence still exists in the country, he said. ‘We must stay vigilant to ensure that public-oriented programmes are not obstructed.’
He said that in the past, attempts were made to obstruct politics aimed at improving people’s lives, and democracy was hindered. ‘That is why we must stay alert against those parties and individuals who try to spread confusion.’
Liberation War affairs minister Ahmed Azam Khan, state minister for fisheries and livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku and lawmaker Abdus Salam Pintu, among others, were present.
Earlier, the prime minister visited the grave of Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhasani in Santosh and say prayers there.
