Dhaka: Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter today emphasized that tobacco control extends beyond the Health Ministry's purview, identifying it as a broader public health issue that demands a coordinated approach across various ministries and institutions. She made these remarks while addressing a view exchange meeting at the CIRDAP auditorium, organized by the National Tobacco Control Cell under the Ministry of Health, to discuss the effective implementation of the 'Smoking and Tobacco Products Usage (Control) (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025'.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the meeting, chaired by Health Secretary Md. Saidur Rahman, featured Health and Family Welfare Adviser Nurjahan Begum as the chief guest. Other notable attendees included WHO Representative to Bangladesh Dr. Ahmed Jamsheed Mohamed, Programme Director of the National Tobacco Control Cell and Additional Secretary of the Health Ministry Sheikh Momena Moni, and Director General of Health Services Prof. Dr. Md Abu Jafar.
Adviser Farida Akhter criticized the narrative that strict tobacco control measures would negatively impact government revenue, labeling it as misleading. She pointed out the significant financial burden tobacco-related diseases place on the health sector, which often goes unaddressed, while revenue from tobacco companies is disproportionately highlighted.
She questioned the government's retention of shares in tobacco companies that contribute to public health issues, advocating for the government to take action against such companies. Highlighting the role of Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus, she noted his efforts in emphasizing the importance of developing a comprehensive roadmap for tobacco control, which has been jointly formulated by the Health Ministry and the National Tobacco Control Cell.
Akhter urged political parties to commit to tobacco control initiatives ahead of elections and criticized the distribution of free cigarettes or tobacco products during campaigns. She called on the Election Commission to enforce stricter regulations to prevent such practices.
She expressed optimism that the effective implementation of the amended Tobacco Control Act, 2005, would lead to significant progress in safeguarding public health.