Akhtar Hossen, lawmaker from Rangpur-4 constituency, has asserted that the mere passage of the budget is insufficient and the government must also take initiatives to implement “July Charter”.
Participating in the discussion on the proposed budget for 2026-27 fiscal year in Parliament on Thursday, he noted that just as the public elected members of parliament through their votes, there is also a clear public mandate in favour of forming a Constitutional Reform Council.
Akhtar alleged that the government has yet to take any visible initiatives toward necessary reforms. He further pointed out a lack of effective measures regarding the implementation of July Charter and the establishment of an independent judiciary.
The lawmaker said public expectations regarding the country’s political and constitutional reforms are clear. However, instead of coming forward to meet those expectations, the government is ignoring them, which is obstructing the realisation of the people’s aspirations.
Regarding the fiscal measures, Akhtar described the proposed budget for 2026-27 financial year as one characterised by a massive deficit and a heavy reliance on debt. He expressed concern that such a budget would create additional pressure on the economy in the long term.
Akhtar maintained that to meet public expectations, the government must give equal importance to state reform, accountability, and ensuring the independence of the judiciary, rather than focusing solely on expenditure accounts.
He warned that even if the budget is passed, desired political and institutional changes will not be achievable otherwise.
