Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Sunday urged Islamic scholars (alem-ulema) to work with the government and remain united in the days to come to maintain peace and stability amid various plots to destabilise the country.
Speaking at a views-exchange meeting with Islamic scholars at Al-Jamiatul Islamia Azizul Ulum Babunagar Madrasha in Fatikchhari upazila, he said BNP’s political opponents in the 13th parliamentary election are trying to create disorder and spread confusion in the country.
“We saw it in 1991 and 1996. You also saw during the last election that you and we worked together against those who wanted to take the country in a different direction. Over the past few days, they have again been trying to spread various messages of confusion and create disorder,” Tarique said.
He said the government and the alem-uema and Islamic scholars worked together in the past and should continue to do so to keep the country on the right track.
“With the prayers of Huzur [Allama Shah Muhibullah], I want to request that we remain together in the coming days as well,” the prime minister said.
Referring to various demands raised by representatives of Qawmi madrashas, he said Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has already explained some of the issues and that the government would address them gradually.
“We have to understand that many other people also live in this country. We want to build a Bangladesh where its people and children can live well, earn a living and live in peace,” Tarique said.
He said people of different faiths should be able to practise their religions peacefully.
“We will practise our religion, and they will practise theirs. But as most people here are Muslims, we will also take Islam forward and take the country forward, InshaAllah,” the prime minister said.
Explaining his visit to the madrasha, Tarique said he has come mainly to pay his respects and seek the prayers of Allama Shah Muhibullah Babunagari.
He also stressed the need to prevent attempts to create disorder, saying the government has important work to do in improving people’s lives.
“We have to create employment, improve healthcare and education, repair roads, schools and colleges, and fix bridges and culverts in different places,” Tarique said.
The prime minister said peace and stability are essential for attracting both domestic and foreign investment.
“If there is disorder in the country, foreign investors who want to invest here will not come. If there is no disorder, they will invest. Then our children and family members will get opportunities for jobs,” he said.
Tarique said ensuring people’s wellbeing is the government’s responsibility and sought prayers so that the government could fulfil that responsibility.
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Allah has given us this responsibility, and we have formed the government. Pray that we can do something good for the welfare of people,” he said.
The prime minister also warned against attempts to spread confusion and create disorder, saying such activities could undermine the government's efforts to develop the country.
Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury and Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed also spoke at the meeting.
Tarique had earlier met Hefazat-e-Islam chief Allama Shah Muhibullah Babunagari at the madrasha and enquired about his health.
Babunagari welcomed the prime minister on his arrival and held a meeting with him before the views-exchange session.
Hefazat-e-Islam Secretary General Sajidur Rahman placed their seven demands during the prime minister’s visit.
