New Start for Bangladesh: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman issues strict cost-cutting directives

DHAKA: In what could be called a new start for Bangladesh, newly elected Prime Minister Tarique Rahman clearly outlined his government’s policies, issuing strict cost-cutting directives to revive the country’s economy, under which only private vehicles will be used, and even drivers’ expenses will be borne personally.

Rahman, 60, the son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and assassinated President Ziaur Rahman, was sworn in on Tuesday and assumes office at a pivotal time for the nation. He faces urgent challenges, including restoring political stability, rebuilding investor confidence, and reviving key industries such as the garments sector, following the 2024 uprising that brought down the government of Sheikh Hasina.

The Media Cell of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), in its official X handle, shared the key directives issued by the Prime Minister regarding cost-cutting.

Under the well-orchestrated “New Start for Bangladesh” plan, based on the Prime Minister’s cost-cutting directives, no government vehicles will be used—only private vehicles. Drivers and personal expenses will be borne personally. Moreover, the premier directed that convoys be reduced from 13–14 vehicles to a maximum of four, and ministry meetings will be held at the Secretariat.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman also instructed that long police protocols on both sides of the road be minimized and helicopters be used only during state functions or foreign visits. He will personally supervise the implementation of these directives, the statement added.