AL trying to create instability in Bangladesh, but people will never accept it: Home minister
Cox's Bazar possesses enormous untapped potential beyond tourism, including marine resources, the deep-sea port and other natural assets, which can generate substantial revenue if properly utilised, he says.
Highlights:
- AL has no future in Bangladesh politics, says home minister
- Army camps planned to help curb abductions in vulnerable areas
- Tourism development must preserve nature, says home minister
- Offshore gas exploration approved, blue economy efforts continue
- Marine Science University planned in Cox's Bazar
- Entire Cox's Bazar coastline to boost tourism, says minister
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed today (7 August) accused the Awami League of trying to create instability in Bangladesh, saying the people will never accept such efforts or any attempt to revive the party's political activities.
Speaking to reporters after laying the foundation stone of the Cox's Bazar Medical College Hospital building, he dismissed recent statements by ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina.
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"What Hasina? Where did she speak? Has anyone even seen her? From time to time, only some voices are heard. They are trying to see whether they can create instability in Bangladesh. But the people of Bangladesh will never accept that," he said.
The minister said those responsible for "genocide and crimes against humanity" have shown no remorse and have not sought forgiveness from the people.
"They have no right to engage in politics in this country. The people of Bangladesh will never allow them to do politics here," he said, adding that while they may occasionally make statements from abroad, the government no longer attaches importance to such remarks.
Responding to a question on recent abductions, Salahuddin said the government will request the Bangladesh Army to establish camps in areas where they are needed to help curb such crimes.
"The general officer commanding (GOC) will assess the situation. We have requested him to consider the matter, and the government will also ask the army to set up camps where necessary. We hope this will effectively suppress or significantly reduce heinous crimes such as abduction," he said.
Cox's Bazar's potential beyond tourism
Earlier, the minister visited the Cox's Bazar Development Authority (CoxDA) office, where he attended a meeting with officials and called for tourism development while preserving the natural environment.
He said Cox's Bazar possesses enormous untapped potential beyond tourism, including marine resources, the deep-sea port and other natural assets, which can generate substantial revenue if properly utilised.
He also said approval has been given for offshore gas exploration, adding that efforts are underway to develop the blue economy and establish a marine science university in Cox's Bazar to conduct ocean-based research.
Addressing the inauguration of the CoxDA Swapnachura Residential Project, Salahuddin said the government aims to build a stronger economy for future generations by unlocking the district's natural resources.
"We have discovered the potential of these resources. Nature has provided them, and it is our responsibility to realise that potential. This is our plan, and we will implement the plan envisioned by Tarique Rahman, Inshallah. We need everyone's cooperation to achieve it," he said.
He also urged officials to prioritise environmentally friendly tourism development, saying resorts should be built without harming nature.
"Tourism cannot thrive simply by constructing high-rise buildings. Development must preserve the natural environment. The sea beach will be made more attractive, and the entire 100-kilometre coastline should be utilised to draw both local and foreign tourists," he said.
