Speaker hopes for people-friendly budget through consensus

National Parliament Speaker Hafiz Uddin yesterday expressed hope that both the government and opposition parties would work together to present a budget that would bring greater comfort to people’s lives. “The budget session will begin on June 7, and it is a very important session. Through this budget, people will get a clear picture of the country’s economic condition and future direction,” he said while briefing journalists at the Circuit House in Bhola during a five-day visit. He said he hoped the proposed budget would keep prices of essential commodities within the purchasing power of ordinary people and accelerate development activities across the country. “The real picture of the economy will emerge after the budget session. Foreign investors will also be encouraged to invest in Bangladesh,” he added.

The speaker said it was natural for the opposition to criticise the government’s budget proposals, but constructive criticism would always be welcomed. “I believe the current parliament has so far been able to meet people’s expectations, and it will play an even stronger role in the future. Members of parliament should be more proactive in fulfilling the aspirations of the people,” he said. Extending Eid greetings to the nation, Hafiz Uddin said people had not been able to celebrate Eid properly over the past several years due to an atmosphere of fear across the country. Referring to the current political situation, he said, “Now an elected BNP government has been running the state for the past three months.

I hope that atmosphere of fear has largely disappeared. I believe this Eid will be a more peaceful and comfortable one for the people.” Bhola Deputy Commissioner Dr Shamim Rahman, District Council Administrator Golam Nabi Alamgir, Superintendent of Police Md Shahidullah Kawsar and other senior officials were present at the briefing.