Dhaka, May 01 (V7N) — Prime Minister and Leader of the House Tarique Rahman has said that holding the office of the head of government is far from comfortable, emphasizing the weight of responsibility that comes with leadership.

Speaking in the National Parliament, he remarked that while the Prime Minister’s chair may appear comfortable from a distance, “when you sit in this chair, it feels like sitting on fire every moment.”

The Prime Minister said the position demands making the right decisions rather than popular ones. “This chair tells me I cannot always speak what is popular. It demands that I take correct decisions, not just popular ones,” he said.

He made the remarks during his closing speech in the discussion on the motion of thanks on the President’s address in the Jatiya Sangsad. His comments drew applause from both treasury and opposition benches.

Call for Cooperation with Opposition

Addressing opposition members, the Prime Minister reiterated that the offer to appoint a deputy speaker from the opposition remains open. He called for cooperation beyond political disagreements to address pressing national issues such as poverty and healthcare.

“If you fail, I fail—and if any of us fail, Bangladesh fails,” he said, urging all sides to work together to make Parliament effective.

He also recalled past political instability, including prolonged strikes, saying the country is still bearing the consequences. “A stable government and parliament are essential to overcoming national challenges,” he added.

Focus on Development and Public Welfare

Highlighting the government’s priorities, Tarique Rahman said the administration is committed to improving citizens’ living standards and addressing everyday challenges.

He outlined several initiatives, including:

  • Expanding farmer support through agricultural cards

  • Providing free school bags, uniforms, and shoes for primary students from July

  • Making girls’ education free up to the degree level

  • Strengthening rural economies through the family card system

He stressed that investment in rural areas would yield long-term economic benefits.

Response to Current Challenges

The Prime Minister said the government has taken prompt action to address waterlogging and crop damage in regions such as Chittagong, Netrokona, Kishoreganj, and Sunamganj. He added that authorities have been instructed to prepare lists of affected farmers and ensure assistance.

He also welcomed constructive proposals from the opposition, noting that joint committees have been formed to address national issues such as the energy crisis.

Parliament Session Highlights

The first session of the 13th Parliament, which began on March 12, concluded after 25 working days. During the session:

  • A total of 94 bills were passed

  • 93 questions were submitted for the Prime Minister, with 35 answered

  • 2,509 questions were submitted for ministers, with 1,778 answered

Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed praised the level of cooperation between government and opposition, calling it unprecedented compared to previous parliaments.

He emphasized the importance of unity, rule of law, and accountability, urging all lawmakers to prioritize national interests despite political differences.

END/SMA/AJ