Dhaka: In a bid to enhance accountability and reduce wasteful spending, a special committee has been established under the directive of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to evaluate ongoing development projects in Bangladesh. Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury announced the formation of the committee, which aims to ensure all projects align with the national interest.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the committee is convened by Dr. Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir, Prime Minister’s Adviser on the Ministry of Finance and Planning. Its primary task is to assess projects that have experienced prolonged delays or have incurred repeated cost increases. This initiative is seen as crucial for fulfilling promises made to citizens and involves a thorough review of the national project portfolio.
The announcement came during the first meeting of the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) of the newly formed BNP government, chaired by the Prime Minister. The meeting, held at the Cabinet Division conference room in the Bangladesh Secretariat, marked the beginning of the fiscal year 2025-26.
The Finance Minister outlined that the committee will identify projects that require termination, those that can be extended, and potential new initiatives that could be adopted. This approach is part of a broader effort to eliminate ineffective projects and prioritize those that provide tangible benefits to the public.
During the ECNEC meeting, 19 projects were presented for consideration, but only seven were reviewed. Some received approval, while others were referred back for further examination. The minister emphasized the importance of prudent spending, noting that every Taka belongs to the people of Bangladesh and must be used wisely.
Dr. Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir highlighted that many previous projects were initiated based on political considerations rather than economic viability. The committee’s role is to scrutinize these projects to assess their necessity and potential continuation. He stressed the government’s commitment to moving away from political patronage towards a system focused on public welfare.
The Adviser also pointed out historical issues with project expenditures, including frequent cost increases and lack of accountability. He noted a concerning trend of rising government operating expenses, while the Annual Development Program (ADP), essential for national growth, has not experienced similar growth.
The Adviser warned that without improvements in the quality and implementation rate of the ADP, the national growth rate could continue to decline. Addressing concerns of political bias, he stated that the current government aims to transform election promises into a national agenda, ensuring all projects align with national interests and the people’s mandate.