Public engagement, implementation of election pledges govt’s major achievements in 180 days: Mahdi Amin

Prime Minister's Office (PMO) Spokesperson Mahdi Amin today (17 August) said extensive public engagement and implementation of electoral pledges were the government's major achievements in its first 180 days.

"During the past six months, whenever the Prime Minister travelled anywhere across the country as part of numerous public engagement programmes, people have turned out in huge numbers. Carrying the people's trust and confidence, our government has consistently moved forward with a sense of responsibility and accountability to the people," he said while presenting an overview of the activities and achievements of the Tarique Rahman-led government over its first 180 days at a views-exchange meeting at the PMO in Tejgaon.

Mahdi said one of the most notable aspects of the government's first six months was its continued effort to implement every commitment made in the election manifesto.

"We have seen how strong democratic values have been reflected in every activity of the government during these six months," he said.

He said the government had demonstrated commitment to freedom of expression, rule of law and human rights, while there had been no political repression during the period.

"Over the past six months, we have witnessed the highest level of freedom of expression. At times, it crossed the limits, provocation took place and indecent behaviour was seen. Yet the people's government has moved forward with the utmost patience and tolerance," Mahdi said.

Referring to parliament, he said the country had witnessed a vibrant parliament during the past six months, where lawmakers engaged in discussions, criticism and debate.

Mahdi said more than 100 ordinances were converted into laws during parliament's first session after the government took office, describing it as an effort to reflect the aspirations of the July mass uprising.

"By converting the amended anti-terrorism ordinance into a law in parliament, a terrorist political organisation that established fascism has been institutionally banned," he said.

Highlighting major areas of the government's activities, Mahdi cited public support, democratic values, implementation of electoral pledges, financial sector reforms, law and order, justice, infrastructure development, environmental protection, sovereignty and foreign policy.

He said it would be difficult to solve all problems within six months while rebuilding the country after what he described as 16 years of fascism.

"However, one thing can be said with certainty today: in every sector, under the leadership of the Honourable Prime Minister, this newly elected, transparent and accountable government has the utmost sincerity, commitment and sense of responsibility," he said.

Highlighting the prime minister's leadership, Mahdi said Tarique Rahman had broken what he called the VIP culture by engaging directly with ordinary people.

"We have seen him repeatedly going to grassroots people, taking up a spade to participate in canal excavation programmes and affectionately holding young schoolchildren in his arms," he added.