Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon on Saturday said the recent remarks of the newly elected British Prime Minister, who began outlining his government’s vision with the phrase “I have a plan,” reflected the importance of plan-based leadership similar to Bangladesh Premier Tarique Rahman’s stated vision.
The minister made the remarks as the chief guest at a commemorative meeting organized by social organization ‘Apon’ at the Bangladesh Supreme Court Bar Association in Dhaka. The event was held to mark the birth and death anniversaries of Mahatma Bhegai Halder.
Swapon said effective statesmanship requires a clear and credible roadmap for the future. He added that Tarique Rahman had presented his governing vision before assuming office through his declaration, “I have a plan.”
“A little while ago, I saw Britain’s newly elected Prime Minister beginning his speech by saying, ‘I have a plan.’ It reminded me of the philosophy of plan-based leadership that Tarique Rahman presented before the people of Bangladesh,” the minister said.
He said when a statesman places a clear plan before the nation, people can understand the direction of the country’s future and develop confidence in that leadership.
The minister further claimed that the people of Bangladesh had expressed their support for Tarique Rahman and his party based on the state vision and action plan announced through the “I Have a Plan” initiative.
Highlighting the principles of the plan, Swapon said it focuses on ensuring equal rights for all citizens irrespective of religion, race, language, ethnicity, or culture while maintaining communal harmony.
Referring to Mahatma Bhegai Halder, the minister said Halder had also dedicated his life to promoting humanitarian values and harmony among different communities.
Swapon said Bangladesh would continue moving forward as a country based on peaceful coexistence and that there would be no space for divisive politics. He added that attempts to establish the dominance of a single religion, culture, or political party go against humanity and civilization.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring equal rights for all citizens regardless of religious, ethnic, linguistic, or cultural backgrounds.
The event, chaired by Apon President Sachindra Nath Haldar, also featured the honoring of distinguished students and eminent personalities with awards.