Dhaka: Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku has expressed optimism that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will become the unchallenged leader of Bangladesh through his work. Tuku highlighted the importance of gaining the people’s confidence for Tarique Rahman to achieve this status.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Tuku, who is also a BNP standing committee member, made these remarks during a discussion meeting at the Jatiya Press Club. The meeting was organized by the Uttaranchal Chhatra Forum to mark the 20th imprisonment day of Tarique Rahman. Tuku emphasized that BNP leaders and activists must earn the trust of the people, similar to their party chief.
Tuku acknowledged that Tarique Rahman, as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, has taken on the responsibility of running the country. He noted that Tarique Rahman’s conduct and work have quickly made him a figure of trust among the people. The minister expressed confidence that Tarique Rahman will remain a guiding figure in Bangladesh’s politics for many years, drawing parallels with the lasting influence of Ziaur Rahman and Khaleda Zia.
The minister also urged prayers during the holy month of Ramadan for Tarique Rahman to continue playing a strong role in the country’s political journey. He recalled the events of the 1/11 political changeover, describing it as a period designed to weaken nationalist forces. Tuku highlighted the pressures and temptations faced by Tarique Rahman during his arrest and subsequent imprisonment, noting that he resisted compromising his principles.
Tuku commented on the current government’s efforts to stabilize a fragile and debt-ridden system inherited from the previous administration. He mentioned that the people of Bangladesh have shown confidence in Tarique Rahman’s leadership by giving the party a strong mandate in the last election.
Additional Press Secretary to the Prime Minister Atikur Rahman Rumon also spoke at the event, recalling Tarique Rahman’s arrest in 2007. He described the detention as unjust and recounted the severe torture Tarique Rahman endured while in custody. Tarique Rahman was arrested from his residence on Moinul Road in Dhaka Cantonment on March 7, 2007, by joint forces during the military-backed caretaker government. He spent nearly 18 months in prison before being released on bail on September 3, 2008, and subsequently traveled to London for advanced treatment.