BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Tuesday called on political parties to prioritize addressing public issues, such as rising commodity prices, healthcare, and education, rather than solely focusing on structural and institutional reforms.

Speaking at an iftar programme organized by the Nationalist Democratic Movement (NDM) at Bangladesh Shooting Sport Federation Convention Hall in Dhaka, Tarique emphasized the need for political parties to present actionable plans to solve the everyday problems faced by citizens.

"Instead of merely discussing the caretaker government system, constitutional frameworks, and electoral reforms, we should focus on how to resolve the pressing issues affecting the people," he said. "Why aren’t we talking about controlling the prices of essential goods, improving healthcare, or reforming the education system? These are critical issues that need immediate attention."

Tarique questioned whether reforms should be limited to political structures or extended to areas like market systems, production, healthcare, and education. "Isn’t it necessary to reform the market system to boost production and ensure affordable healthcare and education for all?" he asked.

He highlighted the severe impact of rising commodity prices on the public, urging political parties to present plans to stabilize prices and overhaul the market system. "Most people are suffering due to skyrocketing prices. Why aren’t political parties discussing how to address this issue and keep prices within the purchasing power of common people?"

While acknowledging the differing ideologies of democratic political parties, Tarique stressed their shared goal of restoring democracy and creating a humane Bangladesh where freedom of expression is guaranteed. He recalled the BNP’s 31-point reform outline, presented two-and-a-half years ago, which included proposals for state reform and public welfare.

Tarique welcomed ongoing discussions about reforms, such as introducing a bicameral parliament, limiting prime ministerial terms, balancing power between the President and Prime Minister, and restoring the caretaker government system. However, he urged parties to also focus on reforms in education, environmental protection, industrialization, and energy crises.

"Reforming the education system is essential for building a prosperous nation. We advocate for a production-oriented education system, but we need to provide more details on how to achieve this," he said.

He also emphasized the urgency of addressing environmental pollution, noting that millions of people, including children, suffer from illnesses caused by air, noise, and other forms of pollution. "Political parties must present plans to protect the environment and ensure safe drinking water for all," he added.

Tarique warned against excessive criticism among political parties, which could distract from addressing the country’s pressing issues. "We must avoid creating a situation where our criticism of each other overshadows the need to solve the problems facing our people. If this happens, the potential of this country will be ruined," he said.

The event was attended by NDM Chairman Bobby Hajjaj, Tarique’s political adviser Mahdi Amin, AB Party Chairman Mujibur Rahman Manju, and Nagarik Oikkya leader Shahidullah Kaiser, among others.