Desk Report:
Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan has said that ensuring the country’s social and political stability is the biggest challenge of the coming days. He said that due to past political instability and divisive politics, a critical situation had been created in the country, where the environment for organizing religious and educational programs was also hampered.
The minister made these remarks as the chief guest at the award ceremony of the ‘Islamic Competition 2026’ organized by local MP SM Jahangir Hossain at the Uttara Community Center in the capital on Wednesday (May 13, 2026).
The minister said that at one time, some quarters had started to view the identity of madrasa students, hats, beards or even religious practices like praying with suspicion, which was against the long-standing culture of religious and social harmony in Bangladesh.
He said that those who seized state power without voters and in a mass manner created divisions among the people for various reasons. Attempts to create religious divisions were also a part of it.
The minister further said that the people of Bangladesh have been carrying the tradition of peaceful coexistence among different religions, castes and cultures for ages. All religions, including Islam, teach respect for the beliefs of others. Therefore, there is no room for division and conflict in the society.
The Information Minister expressed hope that organizing the Islamic competition will play an important role in developing the talent, sense of reason and moral education of madrasa students. He said that such initiatives will be helpful in establishing a balanced and peaceful environment in the society.
Regarding the country’s economic situation, the Information Minister said that the huge debt and economic crisis left by the previous government have become a big challenge for the current government. He said that time and social stability are needed to restore the economy by dealing with the debt burden of about 30 lakh crore taka and the pressure of paying foreign loans.
He said that economic recovery is possible if the country’s political and social peace is maintained for the next two years. Therefore, he urged all citizens to be vigilant about attempts to create division and instability.
Stating that constructive debate in the National Parliament is part of democracy, the minister said that everyone should be aware that debates and differences in the Parliament should not in any way cause conflict or chaos on the streets.
Mentioning those who practice religious values as important allies in maintaining social stability, he said that scholars and religious leaders can play an important role in maintaining peace, compassion and harmony in the society.
Local MP SM Jahangir Hossain, Baitul Mukarram Khatib Allama Mufti Abdul Malek, Hafez Maulana Nazmul Hasan Qasemi, scholars and students, guardians and dignitaries were present at the event.
