Budget FY26We took responsibility, not power: Finance Adviser

Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed has said that the interim government has taken responsibility for stabilising a deeply troubled economy, not assumed political power.

He made the remarks at a post-budget press conference held at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in Dhaka on Tuesday, a day after unveiling the Tk7.90 trillion budget for the 2025–26 fiscal year.

“When we took responsibility, the country was on life support — in the ICU, metaphorically speaking. The banking sector and other key institutions were in disarray. Now, we’ve managed to bring about some degree of stability,” said Dr. Salehuddin.

For the first time in the nation’s history, the size of the national budget has decreased compared to the previous fiscal year.

According to Dr Salehuddin, this was a deliberate move grounded in realism and a commitment to benefit the broader population.

“This time, the budget has shrunk. For years we heard about rising figures and record budgets — but who really benefited? If development doesn’t improve the lives of ordinary people, then what’s the point?” he questioned.

He emphasised that the FY26 budget is both people-friendly and business-friendly, focusing on economic inclusion rather than growth for the few.

“We didn’t try to radically transform everything overnight. That’s not realistic. Instead, we’ve laid out a budgetary plan for the next three years,” he said.

The adviser also stressed that the budget’s primary goal is to enhance people’s quality of life. “We have prioritised making everyday life more comfortable for citizens — improving the standard of living, not just economic statistics,” he added.

The interim government, formed after the political turmoil of the July uprising, has committed to transparency and public engagement. Citizens are encouraged to provide feedback through official government platforms.

As the nation adjusts to a new economic direction, the FY26 budget appears to mark a transition from political rhetoric to economic responsibility — one focused on sustainable progress and public welfare.