Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed on Tuesday defended the FY2025–26 national budget against criticism for lacking dramatic reform, stating that expecting a revolutionary shift in a single budget cycle is unrealistic.
Speaking at a post-budget press conference at Osmani Memorial Auditorium, he said the interim administration aimed to craft a “realistic, pragmatic, and implementable” budget, rather than one filled with abrupt overhauls. “We’re not copying the previous government,” he asserted, “but transformation takes time.”
Dr. Salehuddin highlighted key challenges, including inflation, energy issues, revenue shortfalls, and a fragile banking sector. He criticized past growth models, questioning who truly benefited, and emphasized the new budget’s focus on equity, increasing citizens’ purchasing power, and creating a stable environment for business.
“This is a pro-people and pro-business budget,” he said, while acknowledging that not all demands can be met. He encouraged public engagement and constructive feedback to help ensure effective implementation.
The adviser stressed the importance of leaving behind a reform framework for the next government and noted the economy was already slowing before the interim government took office. The briefing was attended by several top officials, including the Bangladesh Bank governor, NBR chairman, and other key advisers.
Dr. Salehuddin had unveiled the Tk 7.90 lakh crore budget a day earlier via televised speech due to the absence of a functioning parliament.
