Information Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan Calls for Public-Centric Politics at Barishal University Event

Published: 10 July 2026, 06:31 PM

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan declared on Friday that politics should transcend the pursuit of power, framing it instead as an essential mechanism for improving the lives of the citizenry. Speaking as the chief guest at the concluding ceremony of a month-long tree-planting initiative at Barishal University, the minister underscored that building a robust democratic state requires the active participation of social and voluntary organizations alongside government efforts.

The event, held to mark the 45th death anniversary of former President Ziaur Rahman, was organized under the auspices of the Ziaur Rahman Foundation. Minister Swapan lauded the foundation for its consistent commitment to humanitarian and public welfare activities, noting that it has remained active even during periods of political instability. He specifically highlighted the leadership of foundation chairman Tarique Rahman and co-chairman Zubaida Rahman, noting their ongoing efforts in state reform and the promotion of social initiatives aimed at shaping the future of Bangladesh.

বিজ্ঞাপন

Upon his arrival at the university campus, the minister was received by Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Mamun-Ur-Rashid and student leaders. The formal conclusion of the month-long environmental campaign was marked by the minister planting a tree sapling near the administrative building at midday.

Reflecting on the legacy of Ziaur Rahman, the Information Minister stated that the former president championed a form of production-oriented and welfare-centric politics that moved beyond traditional power structures. By integrating agriculture, canal excavation, and environmental conservation into the national political agenda, Rahman transformed everyday livelihood issues into core political priorities. Swapan noted that this vision is being carried forward by Tarique Rahman, whose focus remains on modernizing the nation through democratic movements and widespread public engagement.

বিজ্ঞাপন

The minister urged social organizations to persist in their efforts, asserting that any political entity—whether currently in power or aspiring to govern—must demonstrate through tangible action that its primary objective is the betterment of the public.

The event, chaired by Vice-Chancellor Dr. Md. Mamun-Ur-Rashid and moderated by Professor Md. Lutfar Rahman, also featured addresses from Barishal City Corporation Administrator Bilkis Akhter Jahan and Ziaur Rahman Foundation Executive Director Professor Farhad Halim. The speakers emphasized the critical role of environmental stewardship and reaffirmed the enduring impact of Ziaur Rahman’s political philosophy on the nation’s social and developmental landscape.

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