C T Online Desk: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today urged the Special Security Force (SSF) to pay special attention so that the security perimeter does not push him away from the people, saying public trust and affection is his greatest source of strength.
“As the head of government, my greatest reliance is on the trust and love of the people. Therefore, I urge you to pay special attention so that the security perimeter does not push the head of government away from the people,” he said, calling on the SSF to remain mindful of this as a modern and advanced force.
The Prime Minister made the remarks while addressing a programme organized at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) in the city’s Tejgaon area, marking the 40th founding anniversary of the SSF.
Addressing SSF members, Tarique Rahman said, “You must give the highest priority to the security of important persons. However, while performing your duties, you must also remain particularly careful so that the public does not become victims of your misbehavior.”
The Prime Minister said there are huge differences between the time when the SSF was established and the present days. Multidimensional security challenges have emerged due to changes in socio-economic and political conditions, geopolitical realities and the unrestricted development of information technology, he added.
To face these challenges, the premier said, it is essential to remain constantly prepared through modern and timely training. As a specialized force, there is no scope for the SSF to lag behind in courage, efficiency, strategy, and state-of-the-art technology, he added.
Tarique Rahman said that although this special security force was established 40 years ago out of necessity, it began its journey under the name “SSF” on September 27, 1991, following a change in name.
“On the occasion of the anniversary, I extend my greetings to all those who have been associated with this special security force since its inception, as well as those who are currently performing their duties,” he said.
Referring to the outstanding role of the SSF, Tarique Rahman said the force performed its responsibilities with utmost sincerity while former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia served as head of government during different terms and, most recently, while she was undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital during the final days of her life.
He said that after the death of Begum Khaleda Zia, the SSF also played an important role as the chief coordinator in organizing one of the largest funeral prayers in the history of not only Bangladesh but the world, he added.
The Prime Minister said that as head of government, he directly observes SSF activities every day and every moment. “My familiarity with the activities of the SSF is not new. I am familiar with SSF activities since my young age, when late Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia served as head of government,” he added.
The Prime Minister said that after the BNP received the people’s mandate to run the state in the national election held on February 12, the current democratic government has been carrying out the responsibility of running the state since February 17.
Since then, the SSF took overall security measures for the head of government in accordance with state regulations, he added.
