Fair polls, economic reforms at heart of interim govt plans
News Desk :
The Interim Government, led by Nobel Laureate Prof Muhammad Yunus, remains committed to holding credible national elections, enacting essential reforms, and pursuing justice for crimes against humanity, according to Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed.
In an exclusive interview with Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS), Dr Ahmed outlined the government’s primary responsibilities, emphasising that its main tasks are to facilitate a fair election, introduce a roadmap for structural reforms in key sectors – such as banking, the National Board of Revenue (NBR), and police administration – and to ensure accountability through a lawful justice process.
“The top priority is to ensure trials for crimes against humanity,
but these must not resemble kangaroo courts,” he said. “Justice must be served transparently and fairly.”
Dr Ahmed reiterated the government’s intention to hold the national elections within the timeframe of December 2025 to June 2026, as earlier indicated by the Chief Adviser. He stressed the importance of a consensus among political parties and stakeholders to uphold democratic practices.
“We are working to guarantee that citizens can freely exercise their voting rights, unlike the previous regime where such freedoms were compromised due to concerns over law and order,” he noted. “All parties seek a fair election, but they must also practise democracy within their own structures.”
He expressed optimism that the election process would be peaceful and well-administered, and that a roadmap would soon be announced. While acknowledging various public demonstrations and sit-ins raising sector-specific demands, he said these should be conducted responsibly to avoid disruption of daily governance.
Dr Ahmed also highlighted the salient features of the forthcoming national budget, set to be unveiled on 2 June. This will be the first budget presented by the Interim Government, with provisions under consideration for a possible dearness allowance.
“If it is included, we must ensure delivery. We will evaluate how much support can realistically be provided in line with public expectations,” he said.
A key reform initiative under the Interim Government is the structural separation of the NBR into two distinct divisions: the Revenue Policy Division and the Revenue Management Division. Dr Ahmed explained that this move was essential to ensure better governance and strategic planning in revenue collection.
“One entity cannot simultaneously draft policy and implement it. That model is not followed anywhere else in the world,” he remarked. “In principle, the separation is necessary and long overdue.”
Although the Revenue Policy and Revenue Management Ordinance 2025 was recently promulgated, Dr Ahmed clarified that its implementation will take time, and the existing operations of the NBR will continue for the time being. He added that no final organogram, staffing plan or functional framework has yet been finalised.
Amid concerns and resistance from NBR officials across the country, the Ministry of Finance issued a statement assuring that no dissolution of the NBR is imminent. “Under the current circumstances, all existing operations will remain unchanged,” the ministry said.
Dr Ahmed assured that reforms would proceed in consultation with all relevant stakeholders, including NBR staff. “We are committed to ensuring justice, not causing harm. Discussions will guide the final structure, and no one will be treated unfairly.”
He also noted that while an advisory committee has been formed to guide the reform process, the final decisions rest with the government. “Such reforms are for the long-term benefit of the nation and follow consultations with both domestic and international experts.”
While questions have been raised over whether the NBR reforms were tied to conditions set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the Finance Adviser clarified that the main focus of discussions with the IMF was the move towards a market-based foreign exchange rate.
“The decision to separate the NBR was driven by our own realisation of its necessity, not merely the suggestions of development partners like the IMF or World Bank,” he stated.
According to the finance ministry, income tax and customs operations will continue as usual under the existing system. Amendments to the ordinance will be made as necessary, following consultations with the BCS (Tax) and BCS (Customs and VAT) cadres to uphold their interests during the restructuring process.
Dr Ahmed concluded by noting that the proposal to divide the NBR dates back to 2008, but it has taken 17 years to bring it to the current stage. The Interim Government remains determined to finalise the reform with fairness and national interest at heart.