PM's chair is the hot seat, not comfortable at all: Tarique
Tarique Rahman mentioned that MPs, including the opposition leader, have raised demands for roads, bridges, and culverts in their constituencies, but the country is currently operating under a debt burden of nearly Tk30,00,000 crore
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has described the office of the head of government as an exceptionally challenging responsibility, remarking that the position is far from the comfort it may appear to hold from a distance.
"From afar, this chair of the head of government might seem very comfortable, but in reality, it is not comfortable at all," the prime minister told the House yesterday (30 April).
"This chair is a very difficult place. When I sit in this chair, I feel the scorching heat of fire at every moment."
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The premier was delivering his concluding speech in the first session of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad following the discussion on the thanksgiving motion on the president's address.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman urged all members of parliament (MPs) to make united efforts to ensure the effectiveness of Parliament for the betterment of the nation, reports BSS.
"The current Jatiya Sangsad represents the entire Bangladesh. The success of this parliament means the success of the country. Therefore, all members of parliament must work together in unity so that it does not become ineffective," he said.
Tarique Rahman said, "If we cannot maintain a stable government and a stable Parliament, we will not be able to move the country forward in any way."
The parliamentary session began at 11am yesterday with Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Bir Bikram, in the chair. After the evening prayer break, Tarique Rahman, leader of the House, and Leader of the Opposition Shafiqur Rahman delivered their concluding speeches.
The premier began his speech at 8:20pm and concluded it at 9:10pm where he spoke on various national priorities including the country's electricity situation, job creation, and development of education and healthcare.
He said overall progress is not possible without democratic stability and unity beyond party lines.
"Bangladesh is looking toward this parliament. Bangladeshis across the world are watching this parliament with high expectations and hope for its present and future," he said.
Tarique Rahman said discussions, debates, and dialogue will continue, but under no circumstances this Parliament should be allowed to fail.
Referring to 173 days of hartal in the past, he said that the country's economy suffered greatly at that time, the impact of which is still being felt.
Describing the government and opposition as complementary to each other, the premier said, "If you (the opposition) fail, I will fail too. If I fail, you will fail too-and if either of us fails, Bangladesh will fail."
Addressing opposition MPs, he said, "This parliament stands on the blood of thousands of martyrs. We are always ready to discuss any issue with the opposition in the interest of the country. Let's preserve the sanctity of these green chairs and fulfil the expectations of the people who sent us here."
The leader of the House noted that development activities cannot proceed without a stable situation and a strong economy.
Tarique Rahman mentioned that MPs, including the opposition leader, have raised demands for roads, bridges, and culverts in their constituencies, but the country is currently operating under a debt burden of nearly Tk30,00,000 crore.
Without ensuring stability, it will not be possible to move forward, he added.
Referring to global progress since 1971, the premier said Bangladesh has fallen behind in some areas due to repeated disruptions to democracy which negatively affects all sectors, including the economy, education, and health.
The prime minister emphasised the importance of creating a beautiful, disciplined, and quality education environment for children.
He said the government is committed to building a modern primary education system like those in developed countries.
As part of this, a programme to distribute school bags to primary school students will begin gradually from next July, along with uniforms and shoes in phases, the prime minister said.
He said the initiative is not merely assistance but part of creating a dignified and motivating educational environment, which will help increase attendance and interest in learning.
The prime minister also announced major investments in the education, agriculture and health sectors, stating that increased allocation and effective implementation are essential for sustainable development and improving people's living standards.
Tarique Rahman said his government is working to ensure quality education for children, with special emphasis on women's education and empowerment, including plans for free education for girls up to higher education and stipends for good academic performance.
Referring to the global situation, he said the war in the Middle East and the global crisis have caused energy problems worldwide, affecting Bangladesh and creating hardship for people.
He noted that a joint committee has been formed with the opposition to address energy and other crises through discussion and mutual understanding.
Regarding opposition remarks, the leader of the House said the government has taken quick action on waterlogging and canal issues in various areas, including immediate steps in Chattogram.
He stated that the government is accountable to the people and is working swiftly to solve problems.
Since crops have been damaged in different regions due to heavy rainfall and floods, the prime minister told parliament that local administrations have been instructed to take advance measures.
He said relief efforts are ongoing to support affected farmers.
Tarique Rahman mentioned that the canal excavation programme initiated by former president Ziaur Rahman has been restarted, which is important not only for irrigation but also for environmental balance and groundwater preservation.
He said the government plans to allocate around 5% of the GDP in the upcoming budget for the education sector, along with significant investment in healthcare to ensure treatment, medicines and necessary equipment in hospitals.
The prime minister highlighted that people want jobs after completing education, while women want safety in public spaces. Political debates alone cannot solve the real-life problems faced by citizens, he said.
He supported the opposition leader's proposal regarding honorariums for parliamentary officials, employees and others concerned in the first session of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad.
He thanked the armed forces and law enforcement agencies for maintaining order after the July Uprising.
"We exist because the country and its people exist. If we fail to respect them, our politics will fail. Therefore, our foremost priority must always be the people of this country and our beloved motherland, Bangladesh," the premier added.
Lawmakers congratulated the prime minister by thumping desks during his speech.
