The aim of the 'reform-reform' wailing is to put BNP in a tight spot, says PM
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and his wife, Dr. Zubaida Rahman, participated in an exchange meeting organized with expatriate Bangladeshis in Tokyo on Wednesday. Photo: PMO.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has alleged that attempts are being made to put the BNP government in a tight spot by raising the cry of 'reform-reform.'
He said efforts are underway to prevent the BNP from carrying out reforms that would benefit marginalized people. However, he said his government's priority is improving the living standards of the ordinary people. He wants to build Dhaka into a clean city like Tokyo, starting with the development of education, health, and the environment.
The Prime Minister came up with these observations on Wednesday evening at a meet-and-greet event with expatriate Bangladeshis organized by the Bangladesh community at Hotel New Otani in Tokyo. At the time, he sought public support and cooperation for the government's reform activities.
Tarique Rahman said, "Efforts are being made to create a situation in which the BNP cannot carry out the reforms that would benefit marginalized people. If I can carry out these reform works, you and your children will stay well and get benefits."
Addressing expatriate Bangladeshis, the head of government said, "Those who are trying to obstruct these works—who will you give your support to? I am seeking support for this reason—I am not saying to vote. If you say the works are right, and we are trying to do them properly, please support the works, so that at least we can carry them out."
At the time, the expatriates present applauded in support of the Prime Minister.
‘We want reforms that benefit marginalized people’
Explaining the concept of real reform, the Prime Minister said the benefits of initiatives such as the development of education, health, and the environment reach people of all classes and professions in society. From a rickshaw puller to the rich and poor, doctors, lawyers, employees, businesspeople, and teachers—everyone benefits from these initiatives.
He said, "I am not saying even once that if the things that certain individuals heat up the newspapers with by shouting 'reform-reform' are implemented, no one will benefit, and the country will not benefit either. There will be benefits. But if those are changed (as they are seeking) only a handful of people will benefit."
Raising the issue of various kinds of reforms, he remarked, "As a politician, I understand that reform to be one whose benefits my marginalized person receives. There are many kinds of reform—there is also reform of air-conditioned rooms, and there is reform to make the lives of working people a little better."
"Since we go to the people for votes, my priority is reform that will make the lives of working people a little better."
He sought everyone's cooperation in implementing such reforms. "If we have everyone's cooperation, if we have the cooperation of every democratic person in the country, InshaAllah, then we will certainly be able to build our desired Bangladesh."To that end, the head of government emphasized hard work, patience, and united efforts.
