Courtesy meet between PM, opposition leader heralds new era in parliamentary politics

Opposition leader in Parliament Dr Shafiqur Rahman paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at his Parliament Secretariat office on Monday afternoon.

The prime minister warmly received the opposition leader during the brief meeting.

Following the discussion, the prime minister escorted Shafiqur part of the way as he left the office, a gesture of courtesy and etiquette that drew appreciation from those present.

Earlier in the day, at around 12:00pm, both leaders stood side by side during the funeral prayers (janaza) of Dilara Hafiz, the wife of Speaker Major (retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, held at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad complex.

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After the prayers, the two leaders walked together toward the parliament building, during which the opposition leader expressed his interest in speaking with the prime minister.

In response, the prime minister immediately invited him to his office for a discussion.

Additional Press Secretary to the Prime Minister Atikur Rahman Ruman said the meeting was brief and lasted about 20 minutes. After the discussion, Shafiqur left the prime minister’s office, and the prime minister once again accompanied him part of the way as a gesture of respect.

Atikur added that the prime minister is known for showing due respect and courtesy to everyone. He noted that both before the national election and after the BNP assumed office, the prime minister’s courteous conduct at various events has been widely appreciated by the public.

Monday’s gesture, he said, was another example of the prime minister’s characteristic politeness and respect toward political counterparts.