United News of Bangladesh

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Sunday urged police members to take a vow so that no fascist or authoritarian force can further use them against the country and the freedom of its people. Addressing the inauguration ceremony of Police Week-2026 at the Rajarbagh Police Lines in the capital, he also asked them to put in their best efforts to ensure the safety of people’s lives and property. “Standing on this soil stained with the blood of police personnel at the very dawn of independence, let us pledge anew today so that no more fascist or authoritarian force can again use police members against the country and the freedom of its people,” the Prime Minister said. He said the current government, formed through the people’s mandate after the bloody mass uprising of students and the public in 2024 following more than one and a half decades of anti-fascist democratic movements, reflects the aspirations of the country’s freedom-loving and democracy-seeking people. Tarique Rahman said people who had long suffered from attacks, cases, repression and deprivation now expect peace and security under the present democratic government.  

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Sunday inaugurated the Police Week-2026 at the Rajarbagh Police Lines here. The theme of this year's Police Week is “Amar Police, Amar Desh, Sobar Age Bangladesh” (My Police, My Country, Bangladesh First). The Prime Minister inspected the parade of the Bangladesh Police by riding an open jeep and took the salute. Deputy Commissioner of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police Hasan Mohammad Naser Rikabdar commanded this year’s parade.  

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday said restoring public confidence in the police force and improving the law-and-order situation are now the government’s top priority. In a message marking Police Week-2026, the Prime Minister extended greetings and congratulations to all serving, former and retired members of the Bangladesh Police. “The current government has been implementing extensive programmes aimed at building a prosperous, self-reliant, democratic and humane state based on justice,” he said. “However, achieving that goal will become difficult if people do not feel safe and secure both at home and outside. That is why restoring people’s trust in the police and improving the law-and-order situation are our priorities at this moment,” Tarique Rahman added. He said stable law and order is essential to continue the country’s democratic progress. The Prime Minister also asked police to play a more effective role in preventing mob violence, juvenile gangs and the spread of drugs. Police Week-2026 is set to begin on Sunday. The Prime Minister will formally inaugurate the week-long programme through a ceremonial parade at Rajarbagh Police Lines in the capital. Highlighting the role of police, Tarique Rahman said a democratic government has been established in the country through a free, fair and neutral election after more than one and a half decades. “People now want a society and state free from enforced disappearance, abduction and the culture of fear, where there will be no fear for life and property, injustice or repression,” he said. The Prime Minister stated that the role of law enforcement agencies, especially the police, is crucial in maintaining such an environment. “There is no alternative to the police force in maintaining law and order, preventing crime and ensuring the safety of people’s lives and property. But if police can build trust and confidence with the public, their duties become much easier,” he said. Tarique Rahman described a professional and responsible police force as essential for maintaining state stability and public confidence. He expressed hope that Police Week would become “a moment to renew the commitment to becoming a trusted force for the people.” The Prime Minister also praised the force for carrying out duties with professionalism and dedication during national needs and crises. “The role of police in the recent parliamentary election proved that they are fully capable of performing their duties efficiently when provided with a suitable and supportive environment,” he said. Tarique Rahman also highlighted the international achievements of the Bangladesh Police, especially in UN peacekeeping missions, saying their contributions have enhanced the country’s image globally. He stressed the need for modernisation and capacity building of the police force in line with changing global realities. “Improvement of law and order, crime control and national progress are closely linked with the development of the police force. That is why the government considers investment in police development as an essential part of public security,” the Prime Minister said.

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman on Thursday met Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and discussed measures needed to make the country free from corruption. The meeting took place at the Prime Minister’s Office at the Secretariat, Prime Minister’s Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Rumon said. “The TIB Executive Director met the Prime Minister. They discussed steps needed to curb corruption and strengthen good governance,” he said. Rumon said the Prime Minister spoke about his government’s policy of maintaining a strong stance against corruption. Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Ghani was present during the meeting. Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Iftekharuzzaman said they placed several specific recommendations before the Prime Minister regarding good governance and anti-corruption efforts. “The Prime Minister took the issues very positively and assured us of taking the necessary steps for implementation,” he said. The TIB chief said they also stressed the need for reform and restructuring of institutions such as the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC). In particular, he said, the restructuring of the ACC was discussed during the meeting. Iftekharuzzaman said the current government wants to send a strong message to the international community that it is committed to fighting corruption without compromise. As part of that effort, he said TIB proposed holding the 2028 International Anti-Corruption Conference in Bangladesh to help strengthen the country’s image globally. “We sought the Prime Minister’s support in organising the international conference in Bangladesh, and he assured us of taking the necessary steps in this regard,” the TIB chief said. He said the international conference is held every two years, and this year’s event will take place in the Dominican Republic. “Previously, only three Asian countries – Malaysia, Thailand and South Korea – have hosted the conference. We believe 2028 will be an appropriate time for Bangladesh to host it,” Iftekharuzzaman said. He said the Prime Minister agreed in principle and the government will move forward with the initiative, subject to the cabinet approval.      

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will visit Chandpur on May 16 and Feni on May 25, Water Resources Minister Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Anee said on Wednesday. He made the remarks while briefing reporters after a meeting with the Prime Minister at Secretariat. Replying to a question, the Water Resources Minister said canal excavation work is ongoing and the Prime Minister will inaugurate such programmes in Chandpur and Feni ahead of the monsoon season. “The Prime Minister will visit Chandpur on May 16 and Feni on May 25. Among various programmes, he will inaugurate canal excavation work there,” he said. Across the country, priority is being given to canal excavation in the districts the Prime Minister is visiting, Anee said. “The government has taken a plan to excavate 20,000 kilometres of canals over the next five years. The Prime Minister has already inaugurated such programmes in several districts,” he said. The minister also said ministers and MPs are continuing similar work in their respective areas. “As the monsoon season is approaching, we may be able to continue this programme until May. After the monsoon, the canal excavation work will resume again around November, December and January,” he said. The hour-long meeting on water resource management was held at the Prime Minister’s Office at 10:00am. The minister also said the technical, survey and feasibility studies of the Padma Barrage project are almost complete and the government will soon take a decision in this regard.  

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Wednesday made way for an ambulance by halting his motorcade on the elevated expressway near Karwan Bazar, breaking the usual VVIP protocol. The move came shortly before 9:00am as the Prime Minister was travelling from his Gulshan residence to the Secretariat, said his Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Rumon. “While travelling from his Gulshan residence in the morning along the expressway near Karwan Bazar, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman suddenly noticed in his vehicle’s rear-view mirror that an ambulance was behind the convoy, appearing hesitant to pass the motorcade,” he said. Seeing this, Rumon said the Prime Minister instructed security officials to immediately allow the ambulance to pass. “Following the instruction, the convoy slowed down and made space, allowing the ambulance to move ahead without delay,” he said describing it as a “rare example.” A private insurance company official, Saleh Uddin, who was travelling to Motijheel in a private car near Karwan Bazar, said he was also behind the Prime Minister’s motorcade at the time. “All vehicles suddenly stopped. Then VIP security personnel allowed the ambulance to pass through the convoy,” he said. Saleh also said that by allowing an ambulance carrying a critically ill patient to pass, the Prime Minister had set another example. He said the Prime Minister’s move reflected a head of government’s sense of responsibility and compassion towards ordinary people, calling it a lesson for all. In Bangladesh, Saleh said traffic is often halted to allow VVIP motorcades to pass, forcing other vehicles to wait. The Prime Minister’s action reflects a shift from that practice, highlighting a people-first approach, he added.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman left Sylhet for Dhaka on Saturday evening after a day-long visit. He departed from Osmani International Airport at 7:35pm on a US-Bangla Airlines domestic flight, Prime Minister's Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Rumon said. “The Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman, and his wife, Dr Zubaida Rahman, are returning to Dhaka after concluding their Sylhet tour,” he said. Earlier, at around 6:00pm, the Prime Minister attended a workers' meeting with BNP leaders and activists at the Sylhet Shilpakala Academy, where he exchanged greetings with party members. After the meeting, he left for the airport. The Prime Minister and his wife arrived at Osmani International Airport at 10:05am. From the airport, Tarique went straight to the shrine of Hazrat Shahjalal (R), where he offered fateha. During the day-long visit, he laid the foundation stone of a Sylhet City Corporation project at Chandni Ghat and addressed a gathering on the City Corporation premises. At noon, he inaugurated the re-excavation of the Baisha River Canal and also addressed a gathering there. The Prime Minister also formally opened the “Notun Kuri Sports” programme at Sylhet District Stadium in the city's Rikabi Bazar area in the presence of children and teenagers. This was Tarique Rahman's first visit to Sylhet since assuming office as Prime Minister.

Describing little learners as the future of Bangladesh, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday urged them to prepare themselves for the responsibilities of nation-building by pursuing education and actively participating in sports and cultural activities. “I want each of you sitting in the gallery to become ambassadors of Bangladesh…You will have to take responsibility for the country, because you are the future,” he said, while inaugurating “Notun Kuri Sports” programme at Sylhet District Stadium. He also described the participating children as the main guests of the event, which was held simultaneously in all 64 districts across the country. “Now you must study, prepare yourselves, and play sports. Those who want to learn music will be supported, those who want to become musicians will be supported, and those who want to become athletes will also be supported,” Tarique added.  Amid loud applause from the young audience, the Prime Minister said he did not want to read a written speech and preferred to speak directly to them. Pointing at the students, he said international-standard athletes, doctors, lawyers, and engineers and other professionals would emerge from among them in the days to come. “You will lead the country. There will be MPs, ministers, even future presidents and prime ministers from among you,” Tarique added. He also said the country’s future depends on the younger generation and the current students. “Our time is almost over. Now Bangladesh is looking towards you. We will start the process, and you will have to take the country forward,” the Prime Minister said. When he asked whether the young students were ready, they responded loudly, “Yes.” The Prime Minister replied, “Yes, everyone will be able to do it, Insha’Allah.”The Prime Minister also shared the story behind the idea of the “Notun Kuri Sports” programme. He said the concept was first discussed about four and a half years ago during a meeting in London with Sports Minister Aminul Haque. Tarique recalled that the discussion took place over a meal at a restaurant, where he was accompanied by his wife and others..At that time, while talking about various issues related to Bangladesh, the conversation turned to sports development. He said that during that informal discussion, they decided to launch the “Notun Kuri Sports” initiative in Bangladesh. Explaining the idea further, he said the programme is designed for children like those present in the stadium gallery, as well as students connected online across all districts of the country. A documentary on the “Notun Kuri Sports” programme was screened, followed by the theme song “Amra Notun, Amra Kuri” at the programme organised by the Ministry of Youth and Sports. Later, students from BKSP demonstrated eight sports disciplines in the open field of the stadium, including cricket, kabaddi, football, athletics, chess, badminton, swimming and martial arts. The Prime Minister watched the performances with much enthusiasm and encouraged them with applause. Students from various educational institutions and people from different walks of life attended the event in the stadium gallery. The Prime Minister later formally inaugurated the “Notun Kuri Sports” programme simultaneously in all 64 districts of the country. He also unveiled the trophy and logo of the initiative and met participating students on the field. The programme is being implemented by the Sports Directorate under the supervision of the Ministry of Youth and Sports. It is inspired by the popular 1980s “Notun Kuri” talent hunt programme, now revived to discover sporting talent. State Minister for Sports Aminul Haque and Sports Secretary Mahbub-ul Alam also spoke at the event. Prime Minister’s wife Dr Zubaida Rahman, Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir, Water Resources Minister Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Annie, Expatriates’ Welfare Minister Ariful Haq Chowdhury, Adviser Humayun Kabir, Chief Whip GK Gaus, MPs Tahsina Rushdir Luna and MA Malek, Sylhet City Corporation Administrator Abdul Qayyum Chowdhury, and senior government officials, among others, were present.With this launch, the “Notun Kuri Sports” initiative officially began its journey to identify sporting talent among children and teenagers across the country. The programme aims to find promising athletes from the grassroots level and develop them into skilled sportspeople. State Minister for Sports Aminul Haque said the initiative is a landmark step in strengthening the country’s sporting sector. He said “Notun Kuri Sports” will serve as a strong platform for developing skilled athletes for the future.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman inaugurated the “Notun Kuri Sports” programme here on Saturday to help create new athletes, and urged all—irrespective of political affiliation—to work together to strengthen the country’s sporting sector. The Prime Minister formally opened the programme at Sylhet Stadium in the city’s Rikabi Bazar area in the presence of children and teenagers. With this launch, the “Notun Kuri Sports” initiative officially began its journey to identify sporting talent among children and teenagers across the country. At the event, a documentary on the “Notun Kuri Sports” programme was screened, highlighting its objectives and vision for developing young sporting talent across the country. After the screening, the official theme song titled “Amra Notun, Amra Kuri” was played, adding a celebratory tone to the programme. Later, students from BKSP performed demonstrations in the open field, showcasing eight sports events, including cricket, kabaddi, football, athletics, chess, badminton, swimming and martial arts. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman watched the sporting performances with enthusiasm and encouraged the students with applause.  

Recalling his difficult road journey back to Dhaka from Sylhet during the election campaign, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday said his government has started work to improve both road and rail connectivity between the two districts to make travel faster and more comfortable. “During the election campaign, I came to Sylhet by plane but I returned by road. The road condition between Sylhet and Dhaka is so poor that the journey can take nearly 10 hours,” he said while addressing a gathering at the Sylhet City Corporation. At the time of election campaign, the Prime Minister said he promised that if his party could form the government, it would take up the road construction work. He said that after assuming office, he spoke to the ministry concerned and learned that the project had been delayed due to land acquisition problems at 11 points, particularly for setting up site offices for the companies involved. “There were also some administrative complications.” “However, the ministry concerned has already taken the necessary steps. I hope we will be able to begin the work very soon. It will take some time, but we expect to complete it within the next few years. Once completed, people will no longer have to endure such hardship while travelling by road between Dhaka and Sylhet,” he added. Tarique, also the chairman of BNP, said rail connectivity is also being prioritised to reduce travel costs and ease pressure on roads. “If we improve railways, travel will become cheaper for people and businesses will be able to transport goods at lower cost,” said. Tarique also said expanding roads alone would not solve transport problems, as more vehicles would continue to increase traffic congestion. He also said Bangladesh is densely populated with limited land and as an agriculture-based country, excessive road expansion can reduce fertile land. “We must maintain food self-sufficiency. So while we will improve roads and connectivity, we also want to develop the railways,” the Prime Minister said. He said the government is also working on introducing a double rail line on the Sylhet-Dhaka route. “Of course, we will develop roads and improve the transport system, but we also want to develop the railway. I am sure you will be interested in the development of Dhaka–Sylhet rail link or the Sylhet–Dhaka rail system. We are trying to see how a double line can be introduced in Sylhet,” the Prime Minister said. He also spoke about efforts to reduce waterlogging in Sylhet City Corporation and stressed the importance of cleaning drains and removing waste, including plastic and polythene. The Prime Minister urged city corporations to raise awareness, especially among schoolchildren, about waste management and environmental protection. “Children learn quickly and carry those habits into adulthood. If we teach them properly, they will also influence their families,” he said. Referring to the project to develop both banks of the Surma River at Chandni Ghat in Sylhet, including beautification and flood protection infrastructure, he said he hopes it will help ease the waterlogging problem in Sylhet city. “I believe that once this project is implemented, Sylhet will be free from waterlogging. It will help protect city dwellers from floods and water congestion,” he said. Tarique also highlighted concerns over excessive use of underground water, warning that it is gradually lowering groundwater levels in urban areas, including Dhaka and Sylhet. He said the government’s canal excavation programme aims to address water management issues by improving natural water flow and creating water reservoirs. The Prime Minister said the government is only about two and a half months old and compared its early stage to a very young child that cannot yet walk and needs time to develop. Tarique said despite this, the government has already started implementing the promises made to the people. He mentioned initiatives such as Family Cards, Agriculture Cards, Sports Cards, and allowances for Imams and Muazzins, adding that other projects will also be gradually implemented. He expressed confidence that with hard work, Bangladesh can be developed like advanced countries, and said the government is moving forward with that belief. Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir, Labour and Expatriates’ Welfare Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury, the Prime Minister’s Adviser Humaiun Kobir , and Chief Whip of Parliament G K Gaus spoke at the programme, with Sylhet City Corporation Administrator Abdul Qayyum Chowdhury in the chair. Prime Minister’s wife Zubaida Rahman, MP Tahsina Rushdir Luna, newly elected reserved seat MP Shammi Akhter, and BNP Chairperson’s Advisory Council member Enamul Haque Chowdhury, among others, were present.