Staff Reporter :
Amid global economic instability, Obaidul Quader, General Secretary of the ruling Awami League, praised the proposed national budget for the fiscal year 2024-2025 as both realistic and pro-people.
His comments followed Finance Minister Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali’s presentation of the Tk7.97 lakh crore budget in the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban on Thursday.
Quader, who also serves as the Road Transport and Bridges Minister, emphasized the government’s dedication to tackling urgent economic issues, particularly the soaring prices of essential goods.
“In the current global crisis, a pro-people budget has been proposed. This budget has been prepared taking into consideration the promises and priority sectors mentioned in the party’s election manifesto,” Quader asserted.
Addressing journalists’ inquiries about possible influences from the International
Monetary Fund (IMF), Quader unequivocally denied any external directives. “The budget was not prepared following anyone’s prescription as the Sheikh Hasina-led government does not follow anyone’s prescription,” he affirmed.
Quader also disclosed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s upcoming visit to India to attend the swearing-in ceremony of newly elected Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This visit underscores the ongoing diplomatic efforts between the two neighboring countries, which share a complex history and significant economic ties.
The proposed budget has elicited diverse reactions across the country’s political spectrum. Supporters within the Awami League commend its focus on critical sectors and strategies to manage commodity prices. Inflation has been a significant issue impacting the daily lives of ordinary Bangladeshis, making this aspect of the budget particularly crucial.
Conversely, opposition parties have expressed skepticism regarding the feasibility and execution of the proposed measures. Critics argue that while the budget sets ambitious targets, its successful implementation amidst a volatile global economy remains uncertain.
Among the general public, there is cautious optimism. Many citizens hope that the government’s emphasis on controlling prices will offer some respite from the economic pressures they face daily.