Prime Minister and BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Monday pledged to maintain unity among the political parties that joined the anti-fascist movement, saying his government would always put the interests of the people 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 at a courtesy meeting and dinner with leaders of allied parties at the State Guest House Jamuna.
Acknowledging concerns expressed by alliance leaders, Tarique said he understood their frustrations. “I do not disagree with what our senior colleagues have said. I respect their views. I sincerely express my regret if there have been any shortcomings,” he added.
He urged partners to remain patient, stressing that the government must first meet the expectations of the people. Differences of opinion, he said, were natural in politics but should not be mistaken for divisions.
“There may be different views on how to implement certain points of the 31-point reform agenda, but there is no misunderstanding or division among us. We are united by a common goal and a common purpose,” he said.
Tarique said the alliance would continue working to implement both the 31-point state reform agenda and the July National Charter, adding, “Since our destination is the same, there is no reason for us to be divided.”
He noted that the government inherited a battered economy and damaged institutions but had already begun implementing key commitments, including waiving agricultural loans of up to Tk 10,000, at its first cabinet meeting. Programmes such as the Farmers’ Card and Family Card have since been launched, alongside reforms in health, education and expatriate welfare.
Without naming any party, Tarique criticised a “covert force” that now claims credit for the anti-autocracy movement despite being absent during the struggle.
“We searched for them during the movement but never found them. Only after the fall of the autocratic regime on August 5 did this hidden force begin to reveal itself,” he said.
He expressed confidence that public support remains firmly behind the government and its allies. “Our greatest strength is the people of Bangladesh. The people are with the BNP and with all the parties that took part in the simultaneous movement.”
The programme began with a recitation from the Holy Quran. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir delivered the welcome address. Leaders who spoke included Mahmudur Rahman Manna, Mustafa Jamal Haider, Andaleeve Rahman Partho, Saiful Haque, Subrata Chowdhury, Maulana Dr Golam Mohiuddin Ikram and ATM Golam Maula Chowdhury.
Members of the BNP Standing Committee, vice-chairmen and liaison committee members were present. Tarique exchanged greetings with alliance leaders and later joined them at the buffet dinner. Leaders of 41 political parties, including Ganatantra Mancha, the 12-Party Alliance, Jatiyatabadi Samomona Jote, Gonotantrik Bam Oikya and Islami Oikya Jote, attended the event.
