State reforms are necessary, but attention must also be given to people's concerns: Tarique

Tarique Rahman Urges Political Parties to Prioritize Public Issues Alongside State Reforms

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman today called on political parties to present concrete proposals addressing public concerns rather than focusing solely on reforms to state structures and institutions.

"Instead of merely discussing the caretaker government system, constitutional framework, and electoral processes, greater emphasis should be placed on resolving the problems faced by the people," he said while virtually attending an iftar program organized by the Nationalist Democratic Movement (NDM) at the Bangladesh Shooting Sport Federation Convention Hall in the capital.

Tarique stressed the need for discussions and policy proposals on controlling the prices of essential goods, reforming the market system, and improving production mechanisms. He also urged political parties to debate strategies for ensuring primary healthcare in a country of nearly 200 million people.

"Why aren't we focusing on these issues?" he questioned. He also raised concerns about whether reinstating the caretaker government and imposing a two-term limit on the prime minister should be the sole focus of reforms. "Isn't it equally important to reform the market system, enhance production, and improve healthcare and education?"

As political parties exist to serve the people, he argued, they should address pressing public concerns.

"For instance, the majority of people are suffering due to skyrocketing prices of essential commodities. Why aren’t political parties engaging in discussions on how to tackle this crisis?" Tarique asked. He urged political leaders to put forward actionable plans to keep commodity prices within the reach of ordinary citizens by restructuring the market system and increasing production.

While acknowledging that different democratic parties have varying political ideologies, he emphasized their shared goal of restoring democracy and building a humane Bangladesh where people can enjoy freedom of expression.

Tarique noted that BNP, alongside other democratic parties, had led movements to restore people's rights. "We succeeded in that mission. However, reform has now become a widely discussed topic," he said.

He recalled that BNP and other political groups had introduced a 31-point reform proposal about two and a half years ago—long before many others started discussing reforms. "We welcome different perspectives and proposals on state reform, as we are open to dialogue for the welfare of the country and its people," he added.

He highlighted ongoing discussions on key reforms, including the introduction of a bicameral parliament, limiting a prime minister’s tenure, ensuring a balance of power between the president and prime minister, and restoring the caretaker government. "If we come to power with public support, we will implement these changes in line with the people’s aspirations," he assured.

Urging political parties to remain focused on public concerns, Tarique said, "Let us talk about the real problems people face and put forward reform proposals addressing them as well."

He acknowledged that political parties would naturally criticize each other, but warned against allowing such criticism to overshadow pressing national issues.

"We must not let trivial matters take precedence over the real struggles of our people and country. If we do, we risk undermining the nation's potential," he cautioned.