Dhaka, Apr 18 (V7N) — Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer and Opposition Leader Shafiqur Rahman has sharply criticized the country’s health sector, describing it as being in a “disastrous condition.”

He made the remarks while speaking to journalists after visiting measles patients at Dhaka Shishu Hospital on Saturday morning.

Using a strong metaphor, Rahman said, “We will not play the flute when Rome burns. When Rome burns, we will try to put out that fire,” emphasizing that addressing crises should take priority over political activities.

Raising concerns about healthcare facilities, he questioned the actual availability of ICU support for measles treatment. “In parliament, it was said that ICU facilities exist. But in reality, most places lack proper ICUs and trained critical care specialists,” he stated, stressing the gap between official claims and ground realities.

The Jamaat leader also highlighted severe overcrowding in hospitals, citing his recent visit to Mymensingh Medical College Hospital. He said the facility, with around 1,000 beds, is currently handling approximately 3,700 admitted patients, while an additional 4,000 patients receive outpatient services daily. “This situation resembles a crowded marketplace more than a hospital,” he remarked, blaming mismanagement, corruption, and neglect for the crisis.

Rahman added that if entrusted with governing responsibilities, his party would prioritize education and healthcare to build a knowledgeable and healthy nation.

Addressing the ongoing fuel shortage, he said the real situation is being concealed. After visiting a fuel station in the Asadgate area, he claimed that pumps are receiving only about one-third of their required fuel, leading to long queues and public suffering.

He called for transparency, urging authorities to provide accurate information about fuel supply and to work collectively to resolve the crisis.

END/SMA/AJ