PM says religion must not be exploited for political advantage

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said his government has no intention of using religion for political purposes.

“We do not engage in politics by exploiting religion for political gain, and we have not done so in the past,” he said.

He made the statement in a written message on Thursday after exchanging greetings with leaders of the Buddhist community at the Bangladesh Secretariat, Deputy Press Secretary Sujauuddoula Sujon Mahmud confirmed.

On the occasion of Buddha Purnima, the prime minister extended his greetings to Buddhists in Bangladesh and across the world. Leaders of the community presented him with a commemorative crest and a replica of a Buddha statue.

The prime minister noted that while there are many religions globally, each with numerous followers, all emphasize the welfare of humanity and promote certain rules and principles.

Referring to Buddhist teachings, he highlighted that Gautama Buddha introduced the Five Precepts—abstaining from killing, stealing, sexual misconduct, lying, and intoxicants—and stressed that love, non-violence, and compassion for all beings lie at the heart of Buddhism.

He said these values are important for everyone, adding that alongside state laws, proper adherence to religious teachings could help build a humane state and society.

Describing “Bangladeshi nationalism” as a central political philosophy of the government, he said no one should see themselves as a minority. “The state belongs to all of us. Our identity is that we are all Bangladeshis,” he added.