United News of Bangladesh

The government will take tougher measures against fuel hoarding and smuggling as Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday directed the authorities concerned to act against those creating an artificial oil crisis in the country. He gave the directives chairing the meeting of the BNP Parliamentary Party at the Ruling Party’s Meeting Room at the Parliament Secretariat in the afternoon, a day before the first session of the 13th parliament will resume after a 14-day recess. Tarique Rahman, also the Leader of the House, asked the Members of Parliament (MPs) to be vigilant against the artificial fuel crisis and price hike, said Chief Whip Nurul Islam Moni while talking to reporters after the meeting. PM Tarique Rahman visits BNP central office in Nayapaltan “Our leader has given a directive to the MPs to remain vigilant everywhere so that fuel price would not go high and the government, in coordination with the district administration and other (field-level) administrations, can take action wherever necessary,” he said. The Prime Minister also directed the Power, Energy and Mineral Resource Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood to deliver a speech under the Section 300 of the Rules of Procedure in the House on Sunday with a tough message against the fuel hoarding. The Chief Whip said the government provides Tk 200 crore subsidy every month to keep fuel prices under control. “The government is trying to keep the price of oil stable by subsidizing about 200 crore taka every month. But some unscrupulous syndicates are trying to create an artificial crisis,” he said. Noting that fuel is smuggled from the country due higher prices in a neighbouring country, the Chief Whip informed that the Prime Minister asked the Home Minister to take tough action against fuel smuggling. “Besides, operations will be conducted against those who hoard fuel or try to create an artificial crisis simultaneously,” said Nurul Islam while raising the PM’s directives given in the meeting. 

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Friday urged all to work together to build an inclusive and self-reliant Bangladesh, ensuring that everyone can live well together. “Let the pledge of this Independence Day be that not just one section of society, but all of us will live well together. We will all strive to live well together, and we will do so, Insha’Allah,” he said, while addressing a discussion marking Independence and National Day. The programme was organised by BNP at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB) auditorium in the capital, where the Prime Minister attended as the chief guest. Tarique said the current democratic government has been formed by the people and belongs to them. “This democratic government has been established by the people of this country,” he said. The Prime Minister said although the people’s aspirations are vast, the country’s resources remain limited, and there is a gap between the nation’s ambitions and its means. “But as a citizen and a political worker, I firmly believe that if we move forward in unity and work together for the country, we will surely be able to build our desired self-reliant Bangladesh. On this great Independence Day, I would like to convey this message to all democracy-loving people, my party colleagues across Bangladesh,” he said. To achieve that goal, the Prime Minister said the government has taken various initiatives targeting different sections of society, including the introduction of family cards, farmers’ cards and canal excavation programmes. He said steps have already been taken and their implementation has begun to improve people’s living standards. Referring to the Liberation War, Tarique paid tribute to BNP founder and Liberation War proclaimer Ziaur Rahman and all martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country. He said the people of Bangladesh had secured victory against one of the strongest armies of the time. “So, the glorious history of our independence and the Liberation War will continue to be discussed and researched for generations to come, and that is only natural.” Tarique, however, said nothing should be done or said in the name of discussion, criticism or research that could in any way undermine the glorious history of the country’s independence and the Liberation War. “If we remain trapped in the past, we lose sight of the present. But if we forget the past, we lose our direction entirely,” he said. The BNP leader said while the past must not be forgotten, it should not be overemphasised either, as excessive focus on the past—even in the recent period—has hindered the country’s progress towards a prosperous future. Drawing the attention of the younger generation, he said briefly that martyred President Ziaur Rahman was an indispensable character in Bangladesh’s independence and the Liberation War. Tarique said attempts had been made in the past to undermine Ziaur Rahman’s contributions, but those efforts in fact proved that he was indeed a key figure in the Liberation War. He said Ziaur Rahman did not suddenly make the declaration of independence, but had long been prepared for it. The Prime Minister said that Ziaur Rahman was not a political activist in his early life, but a military officer. “But, the dream of Bangladesh’s independence was something he nurtured in his mind, and this is reflected in one of his writings. From that writing, we can clearly understand that he held the idea of independence and had long made mental preparations for a sovereign Bangladesh,” he said. The Prime Minister referred to Ziaur Rahman’s article titled “Birth of a Nation”, published on March 26, 1972, in the Dainik Bangla. “In the article, he (Zia) wrote about the historic moment of 2:15am on March 26, 1971, describing it as a day the people of Bangladesh would remember forever…What happened at 2:15am on March 26, 1971, I believe, is an important piece of evidence for those who research the history of independence and the Liberation War,” he said  Tarique said when Ziaur Rahman’s article was first published, the Liberation War had just ended and those who had been directly or indirectly involved were still alive, but no one raised any objection or made any statement contradicting the contents of the article. He said the article was later republished in the weekly Bichitra in 1974 and was never challenged at the time, indicating its credibility. He said that neither the then government nor any political figure had challenged or attempted to refute any part of Shaheed Ziaur Rahman’s article at the time, as those present then knew that every sentence and word in it was true. Highlighting the value of independence, the Prime Minister said only those who struggle for freedom can truly realise its importance. “We achieved independence in 1971 through immense sacrifice, and in recent times too, people have made sacrifices to protect democracy and the country,” he said. Tarique said the people Bangladesh achieved independence in 1971 through immense sacrifice and defended it again in 2024 amid adversity. Recalling recent struggles, he said many lives were lost in movements for democracy, adding that the ultimate goal of all struggles—from 1971 to 1990 and 2024—was to establish a democratic Bangladesh based on equality, human dignity and social justice. Fakhrul hopes for democratic, happy Bangladesh under Tarique Rahman The discussion began at 3:00pm with a recitation from the Holy Quran. The Prime Minister arrived at the venue at 3:57pm. At the beginning of the event, a munajat was offered seeking eternal peace for the souls of the party’s founder, martyred President Ziaur Rahman, former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, and those who were martyred in the Liberation War. BNP Standing Committee members Dr Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain, Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan, Nazrul Islam Khan, Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury and Salahuddin Ahmed, among others, spoke at the programme, with BNP Secretary General and Local Government Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir in the chair.

A recent statement by the state minister for sports and youth affairs, Aminul Haque, regarding Zaima Rahman’s early involvement in football, has drawn widespread public attention, prompting further clarification and renewed discussion about youth sports development. The former goalkeeper of the national football team claimed that Zaima Rahman, who is the only daughter of current Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, once had the opportunity to play for the Chelsea Football Club in the United Kingdom. According to the state minister, she was a very talented athlete, and described her as a promising goalkeeper during her early years, noting her height and athletic aptitude for the position. The comments generated considerable discussion online, with many questioning the claim in the context of Bangladesh’s limited historical representation in top-tier English football. But as the debate online continued, a voice from the past came forward to provide the context. A former coach, Mohammad Hakim, who trained Zaima during her time at the International School Dhaka (ISD), shared recollections and archival photographs of her participation in school-level football.

Bangladesh currently has about a month’s supply of fuel, Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Ghani said on Wednesday, noting that the country normally maintains a 15-day reserve. Ghani made the remarks during a briefing at the Press Information Department following a Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the Secretariat. He said the government is taking steps to further increase fuel reserves to ensure stability amid the ongoing international energy crisis. Asked about the Prime Minister’s response to the ongoing international energy crisis, the Cabinet Secretary said, “The Prime Minister reviewed all available government resources, assessed progress, and examined the steps taken by the ministries. I can briefly say that the reserves are sufficient.” Commenting on panic buying, Ghani said, “Excess fuel purchased unnecessarily could go to waste. The situation should normalize in a few days once public confidence returns. Under the government’s plan, the reserves are being increased further.” PM calls for unity, tolerance to accelerate Bangladesh’s  development Regarding the rise in jet fuel prices, Ghani explained, “The international price of jet fuel has increased. Airlines operating here also follow the international rate, so the price movement is aligned with global trends.” He confirmed that the one-month reserve includes all types of fuel and added that the Cabinet Committee on Purchase has approved the acquisition of two cargoes of LNG. Ghani also said that fuel not immediately available under contracts is purchased from the spot market, and decisions have to be made quickly, often within 10 hours of the cargo’s arrival. Responding to rumors about a fuel price hike, he said, “I am not aware of any such plan, and there are no signs of it at this stage.” The Cabinet Secretary reiterated that fuel is being procured from multiple sources to maintain and expand the country’s reserves.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Tuesday chaired a meeting to address traffic congestion in the capital and discuss measures for modernising the city’s traffic management system. The meeting was held at the Prime Minister’s Office at Secretariat, said PM’s Deputy Press Secretary Jahidul Islam Rony. During the meeting, the Prime Minister emphasised the need for coordinated efforts to tackle the capital’s persistent traffic problems and improve overall traffic management. PM orders ministry to arrange loan support for outbound students Senior officials from the relevant ministries and agencies attended the meeting.  

President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will offer Eid-ul-Fitr prayers at the main congregation at the National Eidgah at 8:30am. State Minister for Local Government Mir Shahe Alam shared the information with reporters after visiting the venue to inspect preparations. “This year’s Eid congregation at the National Eidgah will be special. The President will offer prayers here and after a long time, both the President and the Prime Minister will join the same congregation,” he said. He said it will be the first Eid-ul-Fitr following the formation of the current government through a general election, making the occasion more significant. The main Eid congregation is being organised by Dhaka City Corporation. Mir Shahe Alam, along with Dhaka South City Corporation Administrator Abdus Salam, visited the venue to review preparations. Home Secretary Monjur Morshed Chowdhury, Prime Minister’s Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Rumon, Dhaka Divisional Commissioner Sharaf Uddin Ahmed Chowdhury and Acting Commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police Md Sarwar were also present during the inspection. Main congregation at 8:30am Briefing reporters, Dhaka City Corporation Administrator Abdus Salam said the main congregation will begin at 8:30am at the National Eidgah. “I am happy to say that the Prime Minister will offer prayers here. We also expect cabinet members and senior officials to join,” he said. Salam said the Eidgah can accommodate around 35,000 devotees, with separate arrangements for women. He said adequate facilities for ablution and other necessities have been ensured for both men and women. The administrator urged city residents to join the main congregation at the National Eidgah. Replying to a question, State Minister Mir Shahe Alam said up to 40,000 people, including men and women, will be able to offer prayers at the venue. Eidgah gets festive look The Eidgah ground has been cleaned and decorated for the occasion. An arch at the main entrance carries the message: “After the fasting of Ramadan comes the joyous Eid. Eid Mubarak.” The ground has been covered with tarpaulin and carpets have been laid. Fans, lighting and backup power supply have been arranged. Separate ablution facilities, safe drinking water, medical services, and fire service support will be available at the venue. There are two main entry points, along with a separate gate through the Supreme Court premises for VVIPs. Separate entry and prayer arrangements have also been made for women.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will exchange Eid greetings with diplomats, academics and people from all walks of life on the day of Eid-ul-Fitr. The greeting exchange programme will begin at the State Guest House Jamuna at 10am, the Prime Minister’s Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Rumon said on Wednesday. “The Prime Minister will offer Eid prayers at the National Eidgah. He will then go to Jamuna at 10am where he will first exchange greetings with diplomats,” he said. He said the Prime Minister will later exchange Eid greetings with members of the cabinet, Members of Parliament, distinguished citizens, academics, religious scholars, cultural personalities and senior government and private officials as well as people from all sections of society. After the programme, the Prime Minister will visit Sher-e-Bangla Nagar with his family members to pay respects at the graves of BNP founder and former President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. National Eidgah set for main Eid congregation, 5 at Baitul Mukarram Eid-ul-Fitr 2026 will be celebrated on either on Friday or Saturday, depending on the moon sighting. This will be Tarique Rahman’s first Eid celebration in the country in over one and a half decades. He had spent the past 17 years celebrating Eid in London before returning to the country with his family on December 25 last year. He assumed office as Prime Minister after being elected in the 13th national election on February 12.

President of the Maldives Dr Mohamed Muizzu has extended condolences in a letter addressed to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, following the tragic death of five Bangladeshi nationals and injuries sustained by two others in the devastating fire. The fire broke out in the early hours of March 13 at an accommodation block on the island of ADh. Dhigurah. In his letter, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu expressed profound sadness, stating that during this difficult time, the government and people of the Maldives join in extending deepest condolences to the Prime Minister and the government of Bangladesh, especially to the bereaved families. Maldives gas explosion: Bangladesh envoy visits injured, pays respects to victims He said the thoughts of Maldivians are with all those affected and wished a swift and complete recovery to those receiving treatment, said the government of Maldives on March 17. Noting that the Bangladeshi community in the Maldives plays a valuable role in society and that the Maldives shares in the grievous loss and sorrow caused by this incident, the President said he has instructed the relevant authorities to closely investigate the matter and take every necessary step to prevent an incident of this scale from occurring again.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Monday called for patience and cooperation from all sections of the people, saying the government will work tirelessly day and night to rebuild the country and meet public expectations. “You have formed this government through your mandate. As this government has been established by your votes, if we get your support, Inshallah, we will work day and night with full commitment to build the Bangladesh you expect. I seek the support of all democracy-loving people in this regard,” he said. PM Tarique’s canal re-excavation drive in Dinajpur evokes memories of Zia The Prime Minister made the call while speaking at an iftar mahfil and a views-exchange meeting with distinguished guests and political leaders, organised by the BNP’s Dinajpur unit at the local Circuit House. Tarique said that during the election campaign he travelled across the country and heard the same message from people everywhere. “I have heard one thing from the people: over the past many years, their expectations were not met. They hoped the country would move forward and see more development work, but nothing significant like that happened anywhere,” he said. Tarique Rahman said the country now needs collective effort and patience to move forward. “So, I urge everyone today to work hard together to build the country. But before starting this work, there is another task we must do — we need to act with patience.” He noted that problems that accumulated over the past 15 to 16 years cannot be solved quickly. “If certain problems were not addressed over the last 15 or 16 years, they cannot be solved in one month or even 15 months. It will take time,” the Prime Minister said. Tarique added that the current government belongs to all people, whether they voted for it or not. “You elected this government through your votes. Whether someone voted for us or not, this government belongs to everyone and wants to work for the country and its people,” he said. In Dinajpur, Tarique recalled memories of his grandmother’s home while outlining his plans for the development of the area.

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Monday welcomed the canal excavation initiative taken by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.In a Facebook post from his verified account, he said Bangladesh was once widely known as a riverine country where rivers played a vital role in transportation, trade and agriculture.He mentioned that rivers previously ensured smooth navigation, helped transport goods and supported farming activities. Besides, rich fish resources, preservation of soil fertility and proper water flow during the rainy season helped prevent frequent floods and related sufferings.However, he said that since independence, the combined impact of the Farakka Barrage and the filling of major rivers, canals and beels has severely affected the country’s water systems. Jamaat Ameer congratulates Tigers on historic ODI series win over Pakistan“As a result, rivers that once flowed strongly cannot hold enough water during the rainy season. This often leads to premature flooding, while in the dry season many rivers resemble deserts,” he said.He added that disruptions in natural water flow cause waterlogging in major cities and towns during the monsoon, while in the dry season there is not enough water for navigation and agriculture.Shafiqur Rahman stressed that restoring navigability through adequate dredging of major rivers should be a top national priority to protect the country.He also said that although funds had been allocated in the past for dredging, river management and reform, the expected benefits were not achieved due to widespread corruption.“There is no alternative to transparency in all sectors,” he said, adding that the government has a responsibility to ensure proper and transparent use of public funds.He further said that canal excavation alone will not produce the desired benefits unless rivers regain their vitality and navigability. “Only then will people receive the full benefit of canal excavation,” he added.Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman inaugurated a nationwide canal excavation and re-excavation programme by cutting soil with a spade at Sahapara canal in Kaharol upazila of Dinajpur.The programme was launched at around 12:27pm at Balrampur village under Ramchandrapur union of Kaharol upazila.