Dhaka,  Sunday
22 February 2026 , 06:27

Donik Barta

Rule of Law Will Prevail: Prime Minister’s First Address to the Nation

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Published At: 10:39:20am, 19 February 2026

Updated At : 10:39:20am, 19 February 2026

জাতির উদ্দেশে গতকাল ভাষণ দেন প্রধানমন্ত্রী তারেক রহমান

ছবি: জাতির উদ্দেশে গতকাল ভাষণ দেন প্রধানমন্ত্রী তারেক রহমান

In his first address to the nation as Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman declared that the rule of law would be the ultimate authority in governing the country. He emphasized that no institution—constitutional, governmental, or private—would operate under partisan pressure or coercion. Instead, all would function strictly according to established laws and regulations.

The Prime Minister outlined his government’s priorities, including restoring law and order, stabilizing the economy, controlling inflation, reforming market practices, improving transportation infrastructure, and combating gambling and drug abuse. He described the current situation as challenging, citing a weakened economy, fragile governance structures, and deteriorating security conditions inherited by the new administration.

He assured citizens that the government belongs to everyone, regardless of whether they voted for it. Every Bangladeshi, irrespective of religion, ethnicity, or political affiliation, holds equal rights in the state. Building a safe, self-reliant, humane, and democratic nation remains the administration’s overarching objective.

Addressing economic concerns, he identified corruption and administrative mismanagement as key obstacles to progress. Strengthening law enforcement and strictly controlling corruption are among the government’s top priorities to restore public confidence and stability.

The Prime Minister also warned against the spread of gambling and drug abuse, calling them major contributors to social disorder. Law enforcement agencies have been instructed to take firm action to curb these activities and ensure public safety.

With Ramadan beginning, he urged business leaders to maintain fair pricing and avoid exploitative practices. The government, he said, is committed to protecting both consumers and traders while dismantling any syndicates responsible for market manipulation. Authorities have been directed to ensure uninterrupted gas, water, and electricity supply during key times such as iftar, taraweeh, and sahri.

Traffic congestion, particularly in the capital, was highlighted as a serious concern. To ease public suffering, the government plans to modernize the railway system nationwide and reduce excessive population pressure in Dhaka, enabling people to work and conduct business more efficiently from their own districts.

Finally, he stressed fiscal discipline within the government itself. Ministers and Members of Parliament from his party will not import tax-free cars or accept plot allocations. By setting an example at the top, he aims to encourage broader austerity measures.

Concluding his speech, the Prime Minister reaffirmed his commitment to justice, accountability, and democratic governance—promising that the rule of law would guide every decision under his leadership.

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