The economist Anu Muhammad criticized the BNP government for prioritizing an “America First” policy over its “Bangladesh First” motto during a discussion at the Dhaka Reporters Unity. He raised concerns about the government’s decisions to implement agreements with the US without parliamentary debate, suggesting that these actions were not in the nation’s best interest.
Anu Muhammad highlighted discrepancies between the government’s rhetoric and its actions, particularly in deals related to LNG imports, aircraft purchases, and port access with the US. He noted that key state entities like Petrobangla and Biman were bypassed in these agreements, and individuals involved in these deals were not held accountable.
Moreover, he criticized the government’s energy policies, pointing out changes in Production Sharing Contracts that seemed to favor foreign companies. He emphasized the importance of national ownership in oil and gas exploration and urged for reforms in the education and healthcare sectors.
Writer and researcher Altaf Parvez expressed disappointment with the government’s handling of international relations, especially with India. He highlighted unresolved issues like border killings and the Ganges Water Treaty renewal, despite improved bilateral ties. Additionally, concerns were raised over economic decisions, such as allowing banks to return to original shareholders accused of corruption.
Dhaka University Professor Samina Luthfa noted a shift in campuses towards political control rather than academic excellence, leading to a cycle of political occupation and organized violence. Despite calls for education reform, no commission has been established in the past 21 months.
The event also featured the presentation of a 13-point demand by the committee, calling for actions like speedy trials for crimes, democratic reforms, protection of religious sites, controlling price hikes, establishing national minimum wage, farmer-friendly agricultural systems, uniform education, healthcare rights, withdrawal of military rule in Chittagong Hill Tracts, gender equality in property rights and pay, anti-trafficking measures, transparency in international agreements, and cancellation of treaties against public interests.
