Country needs committed leadership: PM

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday said it would be easier for a correct leadership committed to the people to steer the country forward by combating all conspiracies in the future.
“Since the assassination of Bangabandhu, conspiracy has continued against political process, politicians and democracy,” she said, adding that there were frequent coups and democracy was unsafe during the post-75 era. But if democracy cannot function, development cannot be gained.
Hasina made the remarks at a blood-donation program of Bangladesh Krishak League at Dhanmondi Road no 32 marking month-long national mourning to commemorate the demise of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
In an oblique reference to the new central working committee and enlargement of the cabinet, the prime minister said the country would have to be built up under combined leadership of the vibrant young and the experienced old guards.
Hasina urged the new leaders and party members to carry on hard work maintaining principles, ideals and spirit of sacrifice.
Pointing out the progress in education, health and other sectors as well as self-sufficiency in food during her tenure in 1996-2001, the premier said the country again faced setbacks in the past seven years.
She said the December 29 election proved that the people are the source of all powers--it was the “victory of democracy”.
Terming August 15 as a stigma on the Bengali nation, Hasina said through the assassination of Bangabandhu people's dream of gaining economic freedom was shattered.
“The defeated force of 1971 killed Bangabandbu and four national leaders. If Bangabandhu could survive, Bangladesh could be an ideal welfare state,” she told her party faithful.
The prime minister said the present government has undertaken a special plan to increase food production and ensure fair prices of agricultural produce.
Hasina observed that if farmers could sustain, then the country would exist. Through application of modern technology in agriculture the country may again attain food autarky.
Krishak League president Mirza Jalil presided over the function, which was also addressed, among others, by Adv Rahmat Ali MP. Ministers, advisers, MPs and party leaders and workers were present.