Strong democracy is key to Bangladesh’s sustainable development, prime minister says

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has linked Bangladesh’s long-term development to the strength of its democratic institutions, saying sustainable progress requires an effective democratic system.

Rahman made the comments during a courtesy meeting with Inter-Parliamentary Union Secretary Anda Filip at his office in the Bangladesh Secretariat. He said Bangladesh had restored democracy after a long struggle and expressed confidence that the system could be strengthened further.

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We believe that sustainable progress and development of the country can be ensured through an effective and strong democratic system.

He said leaders and activists from his party had faced enforced disappearances, killings and what he described as false cases during that struggle. The Feb. 12 election, he added, opened the way for renewed democratic practice. Rahman said the BNP had restored both multiparty and parliamentary democracy in Bangladesh.

The prime minister acknowledged that challenges remained but said his government was committed to democracy, constitutional rights and essential services. He also identified women’s empowerment as a government priority and referred to plans for free education for women through the honours level.

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We are very happy that after a long struggle, we have been able to restore democracy in the country. We have struggled for democracy for a long time.

Filip praised Rahman’s leadership and his regular participation in parliamentary sessions. She said she had reviewed the BNP’s election manifesto and welcomed its education and community-based initiatives. She also said further progress in parliamentary democracy could strengthen public confidence in state institutions.

The IPU wants to expand cooperation and exchange experience with Bangladesh’s parliament. Filip said the participation of Bangladesh’s parliamentary speaker in the 153rd IPU Assembly in Tanzania could strengthen relations, and stressed the importance of civic awareness and greater participation by women and young lawmakers.

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There are still some challenges ahead of us. But we are optimistic and firmly committed to democracy. People’s expectations from democracy are very high.