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Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Prime Minister Tarique Rahman accused the opposition of aiming to destabilize the country by opposing the proposed budget.
- He stated that taxes on approximately 60 essential products, including rice, lentils, and salt, were removed to prevent price increases.
- Rahman emphasized the budget's focus on strengthening industry and commerce alongside agriculture to create employment opportunities.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has accused the opposition of seeking to create instability and mislead the public by opposing the proposed national budget. He asserted that the government's objective is to ensure the well-being of citizens, highlighting the withdrawal of taxes on around 60 essential products like rice, lentils, edible oil, and salt. Rahman stated that unlike in the past, no commodity prices have increased since the budget's introduction, a fact he contrasted with the opposition's rejection of measures that reduced taxes on essentials while increasing prices on alcohol and cigarettes.
The objective is simple -- to ensure that people can live well.
Speaking after inaugurating the re-excavation of the historic Patali Canal in Cox's Bazar, Rahman questioned the opposition's motives. He argued their sole aim is to foster instability rather than support the populace. The proposed budget for FY2026-27, presented by Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, emphasizes production and employment. Rahman stressed the need for Bangladesh to bolster industry and commerce alongside its agricultural base to generate jobs for the youth.
Their objective is not to stand beside the people of the country. Their only goal is to create instability and unrest in the country and mislead people.
The Prime Minister also noted the government's protective measures for domestic industries, including increased taxes on competing imported products, which he said the opposition also opposes. He declared that the country's true owners are its 200 million people, not any political party or family. The canal restoration project, Rahman explained, is part of initiatives to boost agricultural production, improve water management, and benefit rural communities, aligning with the government's commitment to implementing election pledges for citizen welfare.
Bangladesh must strengthen industry and commerce alongside agriculture.
Originally published by Daily Star. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.