‘Reforms can’t be completed within one and a half yrs’
Staff Reporter :
Advisers to the interim government have emphasized that reforms are a gradual process that cannot be completed within just a year and a half. They warned that without the full commitment of all stakeholders, such initiatives are at risk of failing.
Speaking at the launch of the book “Bangladesher Rajnoitik Orthoniti” by Dr Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, Adviser to the Ministries of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources; Road Transport and Bridges; and Railways on Sunday, they said the interim administration has been working to lay the groundwork for the next elected government. They underscored that lasting success depends on effective governance, robust systemic management, and strong political will.
Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed remarked that the interim government aims to build a better future for the next generation and called for cooperation from all sectors. “We are making progress and striving for the country’s betterment,” he said, noting that corruption and systemic inefficiencies have long hindered Bangladesh.
He expressed hope that the next government would continue reform initiatives, emphasizing that politics should prioritize national service over mere power gains.
Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan of the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change observed that meaningful reforms cannot be achieved in just 18 months. “Economic reforms require deep restructuring because the roots of the problems run far deeper than regulations or laws,” she explained.
She cautioned that some progress might remain only on paper if not sustained and highlighted attempts by vested interests to reclaim high-value lands under the pretext of dairy, poultry, or aquaculture projects. Rizwana also mentioned resistance encountered during structural reforms at the National Board of Revenue.
Dr Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan noted that although one and a half years is a short period for reforms, the interim government has set examples of good governance.
He pointed to improvements in government efficiency, decision-making processes, and energy sector reforms, including more competitive LNG imports.
“Previously, only four entities could import LNG at $16; now, through open competition, the price has dropped to $12,” he said, urging the next government to maintain transparency and competitiveness. He also highlighted structural issues, such as lengthy procurement processes in sectors like railways and energy.
Adviser Mostafa Sarwar Farooqi alleged that unethical practices were widespread under the previous government, reinforcing the need for governance and procurement reforms.
Prothom Alo Editor Matiur Rahman, delivering the welcome address, lauded the book’s author and highlighted that the interim government has appointed experienced individuals to key positions. He also stressed the importance of holding elections on time to prevent a political crisis.
Dr Hossain Zillur Rahman, Executive Chairman of PPRC, urged the nation to overcome its “corruption syndrome” to achieve lasting progress. Former World Bank Chief Economist Dr Zahid Hussain cited structural barriers, including weak banking, energy shortages, and poor port facilities, as major obstacles, while environmental expert Dr Ainun Nishat also spoke at the event.