Dhaka: The first 21 days of the BNP-led government under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman have set a strong precedent for governance, sending a message that a new, democratic Bangladesh is moving decisively towards development, good governance, accountability, and the empowerment of its people.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the new BNP government has already taken a series of positive steps aimed at improving administrative efficiency, strengthening law and order, stabilizing the economy, and restoring public confidence, marking what many observers describe as an encouraging start. These early initiatives have attracted widespread attention across the country’s political arena, media, and public discourse.
In his initial days in office, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has demonstrated a different style of leadership by engaging more closely with ordinary citizens. Observers note that his public appearances and relatively simple movements without extensive protocol have attracted public interest. In a symbolic gesture of respect for rules, his motorcade has been seen following normal traffic signals, which many view positively.
The Prime Minister’s simplified approach has positively impacted traffic management in Dhaka. In just 21 days, the average vehicle speed on Dhaka’s roads has increased from 4.5 km/h to 5.3 km/h, reducing the daily loss of work hours due to congestion. Transport analysts partially attribute this improvement to fewer road closures for official convoys.
The government has initiated several welfare card programs, including the ‘Family Card’ for women-led households, aligning with the election manifesto’s promises. Plans are also underway for a ‘Farmers’ Card’ and a ‘Probashi Card’ to support agricultural services and migrant workers, respectively.
Administrative discipline has been emphasized, with government employees expected to arrive on time, while police reforms are being explored with support from Japan to create a more people-friendly force. The government is also managing the Middle East crisis by securing LNG supplies and implementing energy conservation measures.
In foreign policy, the government has adopted a ‘Bangladesh first’ approach, focusing on national interests and improving diplomatic relations, notably with India and the United States. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has shown political courtesy by engaging with defeated political parties, aiming to foster goodwill.
Despite concerns of price spikes during Ramadan, the Commerce Ministry’s regular monitoring has kept essential commodity prices stable. In the economic sector, the reopening of factories and potential interest rate reductions are restoring business confidence.
The government is also focusing on educational reforms, planning to improve education quality and align it with international standards. For farmers, a decision to waive agricultural loans aims to ease financial pressure on rural households.
Efforts to curb mob violence and extortion have been prioritized, with firm stances from the Home Ministry. Protecting press freedom is also on the agenda, with investigations into attacks on media outlets progressing swiftly.
The restoration of the police chain of command has brought structural reforms, ensuring a disciplined and effective law enforcement system. While many initiatives are still in their infancy, analysts suggest that these early actions provide a clear indication of the BNP government’s priorities.