PM invites opposition leader to Tk150 meal after praise for modest lunch cost

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today (7 September) invited Leader of the Opposition Shafiqur Rahman to share a meal costing around Tk150 after the opposition leader praised the prime minister’s modest lunch expenses during a discussion in Parliament.

The light-hearted exchange took place during a general discussion under Rule 68 on measures to address disruptions to power generation caused by the fuel and gas crisis, the closure of industries and resulting unemployment, and the broader impact on the national economy.

Speaking in the House, Shafiqur said he was encouraged to learn that the prime minister’s lunch cost only Tk100-Tk150. “I like that. I cannot even eat for that little. I am saying this without exaggeration,” he said.

Tarique then gestured towards Shafiqur, inviting him to join him for a meal. Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed also spoke on the microphone, saying the opposition leader would be treated to a meal, while gesturing towards the prime minister. 

Thanking the prime minister, Shafiqur said he did not want to eat alone. “I want to eat with 18 crore people. I want to eat with everyone. Still, thank you for the offer,” he said.

He then praised Tarique’s simple lifestyle, saying the prime minister was neither extravagant nor “suited and booted” and travelled without pomp. However, Shafiqur said that while some other members of the government praised the prime minister’s simplicity, their own conduct often contradicted it.

“If he is being held up as an icon for [others] to follow, then that icon status should be applied consistently, in every respect. But that is not what we see – we see the opposite,” he said, cautioning against using the word “icon” unless the person being described as one was actually followed by others.

Shafiqur also said the prime minister, being human, was not above making mistakes and that not everything he did could automatically be endorsed. “Only when it comes to the demands of children can we say yes to whatever they ask,” he added.