BNP plans to upgrade primary healthcare if voted to power: Dr Rafiq

As part of BNP’s countrywide election campaign, Health Affairs Secretary of the party Dr Md Rafiqul Islam on Tuesday launched a publicity drive in Rajshahi by distributing informational leaflets titled “Plan to Build the Nation” on behalf of BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman.

The campaign began at the premises of Rajshahi Medical College (RMC) Hospital with the aim of strengthening party activities in the region.

During his visit, Dr Rafiq exchanged views with the principal and vice-principal of Rajshahi Medical College, heads of different departments and on-duty physicians. Discussions at the meeting focused on the current state of the country’s health sector, existing challenges in healthcare delivery and possible reform plans.

Speaking at the meeting, Dr Rafiq said that if BNP comes to power, the party plans to significantly improve primary healthcare services and ensure they reach people at their doorsteps.

He emphasised enhancing maternal and child healthcare, strengthening medical infrastructure at the rural level and reducing treatment costs for general people.

He also highlighted the need to increase manpower in the health sector, ensure the supply of modern medical equipment and expand specialised healthcare services at district and upazila levels.

Recalling a past contribution, Dr Rafiq said that in 1994, then prime minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia had gifted a bus to Rajshahi Medical College to facilitate transportation for students. He sought prayers from all present for the eternal peace of the departed leader.

Beyond healthcare, Dr Rafiq also spoke about BNP’s broader “Plan to Build the Nation”, outlining different social safety and economic support programmes, including family cards and agriculture cards. He said these initiatives aim to keep the cost of living within affordable limits for low- and middle-income people and to strengthen the rural economy.

After the meeting, Dr Rafiqul Islam visited different wards of the hospital and spoke with patients and their attendants. He sought support for BNP and urged voters to turn up at their respective polling centres in the morning on 12 February to cast their votes.