‘Govt to finalise pay structure’

Staff Reporter:

The interim government will leave a framework for a new pay structure for public servants, Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed said on Wednesday, adding that the next elected government is expected to take the matter forward seriously.

Speaking to reporters after meetings of the Cabinet Committee on Government Purchase and the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs at the Secretariat, Salehuddin said the pay commission’s work is highly complex and independent, with
separate commissions for civil and defence pay.

“Once all three reports are in, they need to be reconciled for consistency, which takes time,” he noted.

He added that the government aims to provide a general framework once the reports are received and, if possible, complete the reconciliation.

“The key challenge is ensuring financial resources,” he said.

Addressing potential frustration among public servants over delays, Salehuddin said it would be “unwarranted.”

“After eight years of waiting, we have taken the initiative to move forward. Instead of criticism, we deserve appreciation for leaving a framework in place. I believe the next government will take it seriously,” he said.

The adviser also mentioned that three different pay structures are being examined to harmonise them before implementation.

“They just need a bit of patience. We have the resources, but other budget priorities like health, education, and development must also be considered,” he added.

On food security concerns raised by a UN report, Salehuddin said Bangladesh is not facing severe hunger and is doing better than many neighbouring countries.

“We held a meeting recently to ensure sufficient food stock. To stay on the safe side, we slightly raised paddy and rice prices to boost reserves while protecting farmers from losses,” he said.