Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Wednesday urged people to remain vigilant against any attempts to destabilise the country.

“A vested quarter is trying to create unrest at a time when the government has begun implementing its agenda under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. We are moving forward under his leadership. You must remain alert so that we are not misled again while working to rebuild the nation,” he said.

Fakhrul made the remarks while addressing a large civic reception organised by residents of the newly formed Ruhia upazila at Ruhia High School ground in Thakurgaon as the chief guest.

Expressing concern over growing drug addiction among young people, he called for a social movement against narcotics.

“It is painful to see many of our youths becoming addicted to drugs. Drug abuse can destroy a nation. We must free ourselves from this menace. I urge our young people to stay away from drugs and build a social movement against addiction,” he said.

“We assumed responsibility amid many difficulties. We are grateful to people for their trust and support. I thank people of all faiths—Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists and Christians—whose support has enabled me to serve,” he said.

Referring to what he described as a positive development for Bangladesh, Fakhrul said the country has achieved a rare honour under Tarique Rahman’s leadership through its election to a key position at the United Nations General Assembly.

He said Bangladesh would continue working to address its challenges though solutions would not come overnight.“You will have to be patient. We are trying to solve all problems step by step,” he said.

Highlighting the government's initiatives, Fakhrul said the administration, which has been in office for only three months, has already begun implementing several commitments made by Tarique Rahman.

“We have launched the Family Card programme, started work on the Farmer Card initiative and initiated canal excavation projects. We are trying to fulfil every commitment that was made,” he said.