Opposition leader Shafiqur Rahman accused “political syndicates” of exacerbating Bangladesh’s fuel supply challenges, in addition to the repercussions of the Middle East conflict. Speaking at a seminar on the impact of the global energy crisis on Bangladesh’s agriculture, held at the Krishibid Institution Bangladesh in Dhaka, he highlighted the troubled state of the energy sector and alleged that the ruling party had ties to entrenched syndication in critical sectors, including energy. Rahman criticized official statements in parliament for portraying sufficient fuel availability despite widespread shortages, humorously remarking that “Oil exists only in parliament, not in Bangladesh.”
He called on the government to create a reserve stock of 60 to 90 days’ worth of fuel, dismantle syndicates, and invest in alternative energy sources like solar power to enhance energy security. Rahman also censured parliamentary performance, emphasizing the need for legislation that prioritizes the welfare of citizens.
Addressing governance issues, he criticized the superficial fixes in various sectors and claimed that financial data in areas like banking did not accurately reflect liquidity levels. Rahman advocated for a merit-based, apolitical administrative system. Furthermore, he expressed concerns about alleged attempts at a “coup-like takeover” at the Krishibid Institution, questioning the need for assertive leadership changes within a professional organization, similar to incidents at the BCB.
Rahman warned that fuel shortages were negatively impacting irrigation in agriculture, posing a threat to food security. Emphasizing the importance of agriculture for national stability, he stated, “If agriculture thrives, the country thrives,” stressing the severe consequences of a collapse in the farming sector. He cautioned against the persistence of syndicates, fascism, and coercion, asserting their determination to resist such forces vigorously.
