The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) on Wednesday said that the interim government’s FY2025–26 national budget is not an inclusive one, but rather, a tool for routine accounting only.
In a written statement, Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, member of the BNP’s national standing committee, described the budget as “one sided, non-participatory, and conventional in nature.”
Khosru made the statement at a press conference at the BNP chairperson’s Gulshan office, organised to give the party’s formal reaction to the proposed budget.
He said, “The interim government could have involved all stakeholders and ensured a participatory, accountable, and inclusive budget process.”
Amir Khosru said, “If political dialogue preceded it, the budget would have reflected a reality-based allocation for expenditure based on consensus,” going on to add that there is no new thought, innovation, or courageous reform in the budget.
Khosru pointed out that inflation is almost in the double digits now, and talks from the government of lowering inflation to 6.5% is wishful thinking.
“According to government data, over 27 lakh people – among whom 18 lakh are women – have become poorer since the interim government came into power,” he added.
He also said that both domestic and foreign investment have remained stagnant, unemployment is rising, and food security is facing serious threats. The agricultural sector, though vital, comprised only 5.9% of the budget allocation.
He further criticised the drop in allocation for the education and health sectors, stating that the budget also does not ensure enough support for private universities, medical colleges, or schools. He suggested that the budget should have focused on increasing private investments in the country.
“High interest and tax rates will impose additional pressure on businesses,” the senior BNP leader said.