Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Tuesday criticised the Awami League (AL) government, saying it had transformed the country’s economy into a “mafia economy” since 2009.
Addressing a discussion titled “Policy Dissemination on Priority Social Policies” at Hotel Sheraton in Banani, Fakhrul alleged that a small group had benefited at the expense of the nation, with banks looted and massive funds transferred abroad.
“The economy has become a haven for a few individuals while ordinary citizens were left behind. Over the last 15 years, so-called development came with corruption, lack of accountability, and rigged elections, which eventually led to the July Uprising,” Fakhrul said.
He claimed that inside Bangladesh, meaningful employment and investment were lacking.
Fakhrul stressed that BNP has historically championed pro-people and pro-development policies and is ready to revive the economy sustainably. “Our policies aim to empower lower-income groups, democratise economic opportunities, and place people at the centre of decision-making,” he added.
Fakhrul also highlighted initiatives proposed by former BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia, focusing on social security, youth and women empowerment, needs-based education, improved healthcare, and family-oriented programmes, along with promoting new technology and opportunities.
The event featured Dr Ziauddin Haider, member of the BNP Chairperson’s Advisory Council, who presented BNP’s 31-Point State Repair Agenda, emphasising eight priority social policies: Family Card – monthly financial support for households; Farmer Card – subsidies, credit and market support for farmers; Health – focus on preventive care with functional primary healthcare units; Education – quality learning, technical education and gender protection; Employment & Skills – youth-focused skill training and SME support; Sports – infrastructure, career pathways and inclusive programmes; Environment & Climate Resilience – Water governance, tree plantation and waste management; and Religious Leaders’ Welfare – financial security to strengthen community stability.
Several senior BNP leaders, including Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan, Humayun Kabir, Rashedul Haque and Dr Mahdi Amin, and Dhaka University Pro-Vice-Chancellor Prof Mamun Ahmed participated in the discussion, along with diplomats from various countries.
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