
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday alleged that anti-democratic groups are once again attempting to undermine Bangladesh’s democratic progress as the country moves forward.
Speaking at a May Day rally organised by the Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal in the capital’s Naya Paltan area, he said such forces become active whenever Bangladesh advances toward democracy.
He stated that these groups do not want citizens to improve their living standards or see the country progress in line with global developments. According to him, similar attempts had been made in the past but had failed, and new forms of political conspiracy have now emerged again.
Tarique Rahman also claimed that efforts are underway to present Bangladesh negatively on the international stage and isolate it diplomatically. However, he said the global community recognises the current administration as one that reflects the mandate of the people.
He urged vigilance against any attempt to create instability, saying such efforts must be firmly resisted in the same way previous authoritarian trends were challenged.
The prime minister added that periods of democratic governance have historically supported economic growth, industrial expansion, and improvements in education.
Referring to earlier political leadership, he said Bangladesh had once gained international recognition as an emerging economy and expressed hope that the country could build on that progress.
He further noted that increasing international engagement is opening opportunities for investment, which should be used in the national interest, especially for the benefit of workers and economic development.