State Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Mir Shahe Alam said that “true democracy” currently prevails in Bangladesh. Speaking on Saturday at the foundation-stone ceremony for the Mokamtala Union Parishad office and a relief distribution event in Mokamtala upazila, Bogura, he said the democratic election of the president was major evidence of democratic practice and development in the country.

Alam thanked the opposition party for taking part in the presidential election. He said democracy is not limited to holding elections, but is expressed through respect for public opinion, political tolerance and ensuring everyone’s participation. He also said politicians should not be arrogant, saying honour can be given or taken away at any time by Allah.

The state minister described Prime Minister Tarique Rahman as a humble and decent politician who is running the country responsibly. He said public welfare and national development are the central aims of the prime minister’s politics. Local elected representatives, political leaders, administrative officials and people from different professions attended the event. Alam later distributed relief materials among families affected by natural disasters.