Revolutionary budget is not feasible overnight.

Desk Report: Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed on Tuesday stated that it is unrealistic to expect a revolutionary shift from the country’s traditional macroeconomic model in the span of a single budget cycle. “Many had anticipated a dramatic, revolutionary budget—heavy in revenue reforms and breakaway measures. But that’s not feasible overnight. However, it’s also incorrect to claim we are simply mimicking the previous government,” he said at a post-budget press briefing held at Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the capital. He emphasized that the interim administration has aimed for a budget that is realistic, pragmatic, and implementable, despite challenges such as inflation, energy concerns, revenue shortfalls, and vulnerabilities in the banking sector.

Criticizing the previous growth narrative, Dr. Salehuddin questioned, “Who truly benefited from that growth? It wasn’t equitably distributed.” He added that the new budget focuses on improving the livelihoods of ordinary citizens, enhancing purchasing power, and establishing a peaceful, disciplined environment for businesses. Acknowledging the difficulty of addressing all public demands, he noted: “We respect the demands, but not all can be met. Still, this is a pro-people and pro-business budget.” He also highlighted the importance of constructive criticism and collaboration. “We urge the public and the media to come forward with helpful suggestions. Together, we can implement this budget and move the country forward.” Reflecting on Bangladesh’s economic performance, the adviser said, “Our pace was sluggish before we took office, but we’re making efforts to move forward. We’re focusing on safety nets and aiming to leave behind a foundation of reform for the next government.”

Other top officials present at the briefing included Planning Adviser Dr. Wahiduddin Mahmud, Home and Agriculture Adviser Lt Gen. (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, Power and Transport Adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin, Cabinet Secretary Sheikh Abdur Rashid, Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr. Ahsan H Mansur, Finance Secretary Md Khairuzzaman Mozumder, and NBR Chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan.

Dr. Salehuddin had earlier unveiled the Tk 7.90 lakh crore FY26 national budget on Monday via a pre-recorded televised speech, due to the absence of a functioning parliament.