Country’s energy situation improves: Minister
He said a joint committee comprising members from both the government and the opposition has been formed and all are working tirelessly to move the country forward.
Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Iqbal Hassan Mahmood said the country's energy situation has improved significantly, with a noticeable reduction in power outages.
Taking part in the discussion on the Thanksgiving motion on the president's speech in the parliament today (30 April), he said, "Even a few days ago, there was public concern over petrol and electricity. Members of the opposition also raised the issue. But, by the grace of Almighty Allah, there are no longer queues for petrol, and load-shedding has decreased considerably."
He added that a joint committee comprising members from both the government and the opposition has been formed, and all are working tirelessly to move the country forward.
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The minister said Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman had once transformed the country from what was termed a 'bottomless basket' into a model of development.
He expressed optimism that under the leadership of Tarique Rahman, the country would be rebuilt as a "New Bangladesh," he said, adding that "Tarique Rahman delivers what he promises."
Iqbal Hassan Mahmood also expressed relief that, despite being sentenced to nine years in prison during the repressive rule of the previous Awami League government, he did not have to go to jail.
"I had said I would not go to Sheikh Hasina's jail, and Allah accepted my prayers. I did not go to jail; rather, Hasina left the country," he said.
Iqbal alleged that although he had been acquitted by the High Court, the case was revived for political reasons and he was given the sentence.
The minister said he remained uncompromising in protest against BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia and also had been actively involved in country's major political movements, including the Education Commission movement during the Pakistan era, the 1969 mass uprising, and took part in the 1971 Liberation War.
Highlighting the significance of independence, he said, "1971 is a matter of pride for every citizen of Bangladesh. Without 1971, we would not be able to sit in this parliament today, nor could we become members of the parliament or ministers."
