Opposition leader and Jamaat-e-Islami chief Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has called on the government to ensure transparent management and build a buffer stock to address Bangladesh’s ongoing energy crisis. Speaking as the chief guest at a seminar organized by the Agriculturists Forum of Bangladesh at the KIB 3D Hall in Dhaka’s Farmgate on Saturday, he urged the authorities to prioritize energy security with a minimum reserve of 60 to 90 days. He also emphasized breaking existing syndicates and developing alternative energy generation strategies for short, medium, and long terms.

Dr. Rahman criticized the government for failing to utilize national resources and institutions like BAPEX, arguing that despite being an independent country, Bangladesh remains dependent on external factors. He said the energy sector’s inefficiency and corruption have deepened the crisis, affecting agriculture and industry. He also highlighted that farmers are struggling to obtain fuel for irrigation, which could harm crop production.

The seminar, chaired by Professor Dr. A.T.M. Mahbub E. Elahi, also featured a keynote presentation by agriculturist Md. Mizanur Rahman. Dr. Rahman concluded by urging collective awakening and resistance to overcome the current national challenges.