Economic Reforms Cannot Succeed Without Political Consensus: Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed

Staff Reporter | PNN:
Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed, Economic Adviser to the Interim Government, has stated that no economic reform can be sustainable without political goodwill and cooperation. He mentioned that while attempting reforms at the National Board of Revenue (NBR), many people called him “crazy.”

He made these remarks on Sunday at the book launch event of “Political Economy of Bangladesh” in Dhaka.

Dr. Salehuddin said, “Some criticize that nothing is happening in the country—that is not true. We are doing our best. But without political willingness and cooperation, no reform can succeed.”

He added, “If nepotism and corruption were absent, the country could have progressed further. While trying to implement reforms at NBR, many called me mad, staff protested, staged demonstrations, yet we did not achieve the desired results.”

Appealing to the government for cooperation, he said, “The government does not seek praise, but at least provide cooperation for reasonable initiatives.”

Dr. Salehuddin also issued a warning, stating that if politicians fail to work for the country, the people may once again face situations similar to the “July mass uprising.”