Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has reaffirmed his government's commitment to institutionalizing democracy in Bangladesh through the establishment of equality, human dignity, and social justice.
He made the remarks in a detailed post on his official Facebook account on Tuesday, greeting the officers and members of the Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defence Party (VDP) on the occasion of the force's 46th National Assembly-2026.
The Prime Minister paid deep respect to the 670 martyrs of the force who sacrificed their lives during Liberation War.
He lauded the force's timely role in national crises, specifically mentioning their commendable contribution to ensuring free, fair, and neutral polls during the 13th National Parliamentary Elections held in February.
"After more than a decade and a half of fascist rule, Bangladesh has begun its journey on the path of democracy," the Prime Minister wrote.
He emphasized that the Ansar and VDP hold immense significance in the ongoing mission to build a self-reliant, humane, and secure nation.
He recalled the vision of the Proclaimer of Independence, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, noting that the force serves as a vital bridge reaching the country’s grassroots.
Highlighting their diverse responsibilities, the Prime Minister noted that over 52,000 integrated Ansar members are working tirelessly to secure key state installations, including industrial factories, hospitals, and financial institutions.
He suggested that the force's vast network could be effectively utilized for environmental protection, canal excavation to boost the agricultural economy, and ensuring food security during natural disasters in remote areas.
Emphasizing the government’s focus on youth, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman praised the force’s demand-based training programs aimed at transforming the youth into skilled entrepreneurs rather than just manpower.
He expressed hope that this production-oriented model of self-reliance would act as a catalyst for social development.
The Prime Minister concluded by stating his belief that the 60 lakh members of the Ansar and VDP, inspired by patriotism, will lead the way in turning every village into a hub of socio-economic growth and building a discrimination-free, justice-based society.
