Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday urged the Special Security Force (SSF) to strike a delicate balance between ensuring the security of the head of government and maintaining his close connection with the public, noting that the trust and love of the people remain his greatest source of strength.

Speaking at a program marking the 40th founding anniversary of the SSF at Shapla Hall of the Prime Minister’s Office in Tejgaon, the Prime Minister emphasized that security protocols must not become barriers between elected representatives and the citizens they serve.

“As head of government, my greatest reliance is on the trust and love of the people,” he stated. “Therefore, I urge the SSF, as a sophisticated and professional force, to ensure that the security cordon does not push the Prime Minister away from the people.”

Addressing the evolving nature of global security, Tarique Rahman noted that modern challenges have grown increasingly complex due to shifting socio-economic, political and geopolitical realities, as well as rapid technological advancements.

In light of these factors, he underscored the necessity for continuous training, professional excellence, and the adoption of cutting-edge security strategies.

The Prime Minister acknowledged the challenging nature of the SSF's mandate, which often requires protecting the head of government during large-scale public gatherings and state programs while simultaneously minimizing disruptions to normal civic life and public convenience.

He commended the force for its efficiency in navigating these dual requirements and reiterated the importance of harmonizing high-level security needs with democratic accessibility.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister explicitly directed SSF personnel to uphold the dignity of the public while carrying out their duties. “While giving the highest priority to the security of important personalities, you must remain vigilant so that members of the public do not become victims of misconduct,” he cautioned.

Outlining the core values expected of the elite security unit, Tarique Rahman emphasized professionalism, discipline, integrity, loyalty, and strict adherence to the chain of command.

He also called for enhanced coordination among various security agencies, intelligence services, and government institutions to bolster national security.

The Prime Minister concluded by expressing his hope that the members of the SSF would continue to discharge their responsibilities with unwavering patriotism, high professionalism, and a steadfast respect for democratic norms.