Parwar warns of budget misuse amid corruption concerns

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Mia Golam Parwar on Saturday criticised the proposed national budget, describing it as “oversized, reliant on foreign borrowing and prone to misuse.”

He also expressed concern that allocated funds could be misappropriated if corruption remains unchecked.

Parwar said the government had overlooked Jamaat’s recommendations on increasing revenue collection, reforming the tax system, curbing corruption, encouraging investment and reducing dependence on foreign loans through stronger domestic economic capacity.

He made the remarks while speaking to journalists after attending an educational workshop for members of upazila working committees at the district Jamaat office in Bhola, where he was the chief guest.

The Jamaat leader further argued that no budget could effectively serve public interests unless corruption within the administration, tax authorities, the Anti-Corruption Commission, the Public Service Commission and the judiciary was significantly reduced.

He alleged that if corruption remains unchecked, there is a risk that budgetary allocations could be used to serve partisan interests rather than public welfare.

He called for revising the budget to make it more people-friendly before its final approval.

Criticising increases in gas, fuel and electricity prices, he said implementing a budget that places additional burdens on ordinary people would be difficult. He urged the government to revise the budget in line with the aspirations of the people.

Parwar further warned that any decision taken contrary to public expectations would further distance the government from the people.