Prime Minister Tarique Rahman jokingly asked the health minister to “praise me a little less” during a government event in Dhaka on Saturday, drawing applause from the audience.
The remark came as Health Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Hossain Bakul repeatedly commended the prime minister’s leadership while addressing a conference of Upazila Health and Family Welfare Officers at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium on Saturday.
Responding with humour, the minister said he had only praised the prime minister “as much as necessary.”
In his speech, the health minister emphasised the need to improve public healthcare services, calling for stronger coordination with field-level doctors and greater focus on service delivery.
He said that the head of the government has announced a 'zero tolerance' policy, through which a strict stand has been taken against irregularities and corruption in all sectors, including the health sector.
The Health Minister further said that the Prime Minister has been working tirelessly for the welfare of the people. For a long time in Parliament, he has been thinking about the development of the country and the welfare of the people. As a result of his unremitting efforts, the Prime Minister is the best political organizer of all time. His work has earned her a place among the 100 greatest people in the world.
He further said that the Prime Minister is especially interested in establishing direct contact with village-level doctors and health officials. There is a plan to further strengthen the healthcare system by giving importance to their experience and advice. I will listen to them, give importance to their opinions and work for them. In return, they will devote themselves to serving the people of the country, he also highlighted the Prime Minister's expectation.
The Health Minister said that there is no alternative to field-level doctors to ensure good health for every person in the country. Therefore, increasing coordination with them and improving the working environment is the priority of the government.
Calling upon the people present at the event, he further said that everyone should work unitedly to strengthen the hand of the Prime Minister and dedicate themselves to serving the people from their respective positions.
Regarding the Upazila Hospital, the minister said that development in this sector is continuing and more effective steps will be taken in the future.
Bd-pratidin English/TR
