Bangladesh Begins Bold 180-Day Plan to Implement Election Promises

The government will adopt a 180-day action plan to implement its pre-election manifesto, prioritizing the control of commodity prices, improvement of law and order, and the normalization of electricity and fuel supply. All cabinet members have been instructed to submit their respective plans to the Prime Minister within the next two days.

On Wednesday, 18 February, in the afternoon, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman chaired the first meeting of his new cabinet along with advisers at the Bangladesh Secretariat, issuing these directives.

The meeting commenced at 3:00 PM with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman presiding over the session with cabinet members and advisers. Afterwards, the Prime Minister held discussions with senior secretaries.

Following the meeting, newly appointed Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed and Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon briefed attending journalists on the decisions and discussion points.

Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon stated that the Prime Minister emphasized controlling commodity prices as the top priority during Ramadan. He also directed that law and order conditions be improved and electricity supply maintained to avoid any disruptions during Iftar and Tarawih prayers. Swapon noted that relevant ministers will submit their action plans within two days, and subsequent steps will follow the Prime Minister’s instructions.

He added, “On behalf of the party, our Prime Minister has announced a 31-point plan for national restoration. This program was not solely BNP’s initiative but involved all democratic political parties. Based on priorities, a 180-day action plan will now be adopted.”

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed highlighted that the government’s priorities include controlling commodity prices, improving law and order, maintaining supply chains, and ensuring no disruption in the energy sector, including electricity and gas. He confirmed that the Prime Minister had provided detailed guidance on these areas.

Additionally, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaid Islam said that the Prime Minister instructed all ministries on how to serve the people effectively. Ministries were directed to act in accordance with the promises made by the BNP to the public.

DBTech/IH/SM/OR