Prime Minister’s Economic and Planning Adviser Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir said Bangladesh’s people are becoming hostage to IMF loans due to past bailout decisions made under tough conditions. Speaking at a seminar at the Economic Reporters Forum office in Dhaka’s Paltan on Saturday, he claimed the previous government concealed the true economic crisis and pursued nepotistic policies. The event focused on economic stability, fiscal capacity, and the government’s 180-day action plan.

Titumir emphasized that the current administration inherited a fragile economy, with remittance inflows sustaining growth rather than structural reforms. He outlined five pillars of the government’s manifesto, including state reform, equitable development, and institutional strengthening. He also called for better coordination between fiscal and monetary policies and expressed confidence in Bangladesh Bank’s independence. Economist Mustafizur Rahman identified three major tests for the government: managing inherited crises, maintaining policy autonomy amid IMF conditions and geopolitical pressures, and ensuring inclusive growth.

Speakers from the garment and export sectors highlighted energy shortages, inconsistent policies, and declining exports as key obstacles to investment and employment recovery.