Home Minister and BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed today declared that his party not only fulfills its election promises but also implements initiatives that go beyond its manifesto. Speaking at an event held at Dhaka’s Osmani Memorial Auditorium, Ahmed responded to criticism over the government’s first 180 days by stating, “BNP was delivering on its commitments—and going beyond them.”
One of the key initiatives highlighted by Ahmed was the retirement benefits being provided to retired private-school teachers, which he referred to as the BNP’s “32nd point,” despite it not being included in the election manifesto. Each retired teacher is set to receive around TK 500,000–TK 700,000 through the digitised iBAS++ system, with the money being directly transferred to their bank accounts.
Ahmed also drew attention to the education initiatives of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, noting that efforts to promote practical, production-oriented, and technical education began during his tenure. He credited former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia for introducing the system of retirement benefits for teachers, further emphasizing the party’s commitment to education and social welfare.
The iBAS++ system, an advanced digital platform, ensures transparency and efficiency in the distribution of funds. By directly transferring money to bank accounts, the system minimizes the risk of corruption and ensures that beneficiaries receive their dues without delay. This initiative is particularly significant for retired private-school teachers, who often face financial insecurity post-retirement.
The BNP’s commitment to exceeding its election manifesto is a notable development in Bangladesh’s political landscape. By implementing additional initiatives, the party demonstrates its dedication to addressing the needs of various segments of society, beyond what was promised during the election campaign. This approach not only enhances the party’s credibility but also fosters trust among the electorate.
In the context of Bangladesh, where political promises often remain unfulfilled, the BNP’s actions under Salahuddin Ahmed’s leadership set a positive example. It underscores the importance of political accountability and the impact of fulfilling and exceeding electoral pledges on public trust and governance.
