Tarique Rahman kicked off his tenure as prime minister with a packed schedule, engaging in discussions with ministers and high-ranking bureaucrats to emphasize the importance of teamwork and impartiality in achieving the government’s objectives. During separate sessions with the council of ministers and secretaries, he outlined immediate priorities such as upholding law and order, combating corruption, stabilizing commodity prices, and ensuring uninterrupted power supply during Ramadan.
In a departure from tradition, the meetings took place at the Secretariat rather than the Prime Minister’s Office. Tarique introduced a 180-day action plan during his first meeting with the council of ministers, outlining specific targets, timelines, and responsibilities for progress across various sectors. During his interactions with secretaries over a seven-hour period at the Secretariat, starting from 12:30 pm, he sought their full cooperation in fulfilling the election promises of the BNP.
The prime minister, who was sworn in recently, commenced his official duties by paying respects to the martyrs of the Liberation War at the National Memorial in Savar, followed by a visit to the graves of his late father, Ziaur Rahman, and former prime minister Khaleda Zia at Zia Udyan. Tarique chose to use his personal vehicle, driver, and fuel instead of a government-provided car and has opted to downsize his motorcade to alleviate traffic congestion.
During the cabinet meeting lasting over an hour, Tarique urged ministers to present detailed action plans for their respective ministries, emphasizing a tough stance against corruption and the importance of price stability, particularly during Ramadan. Ministers were tasked with closely monitoring the market to prevent essential price hikes, aiming to instill public confidence early on.
Highlighting the public’s expectations of good governance and accountability, Tarique stressed the need for ensuring law and order swiftly to provide stability and security. Discussions also revolved around the government’s pledges concerning family welfare, support for farmers, and healthcare initiatives, with a focus on identifying quick implementation steps. The government’s 180-day plan encompassed key areas such as education, law enforcement, women’s empowerment, job creation, environmental conservation, technology-driven progress, and financial management, with ministers instructed to develop detailed implementation strategies.
Following the cabinet meeting, Tarique met with secretaries for about 15 minutes, assuring them of impartial decision-making and seeking their cooperation in fulfilling the government’s commitments. A positive atmosphere prevailed at the Secretariat, with ministers and state ministers receiving floral welcomes from officials, and interactions between officials and ministers taking place. Security measures were heightened.
In a bid to reduce traffic disruptions and streamline operations, the prime minister announced plans to hold future cabinet meetings at the Secretariat and instructed against the roadside deployment of uniformed police during his movements in the capital.