DHAKA, Mar 27 (V7N) – Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has strongly criticized "black marketers" and hoarders for exacerbating the country’s energy concerns, alleging that their actions are tarnishing the government's image during a sensitive global crisis. Speaking at a discussion meeting organized by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) at the Engineers Institution auditorium this Friday, the Minister addressed the ongoing fuel supply disruptions affecting the capital.

The Energy Crisis and Government Response

Minister Khosru acknowledged that the "True Promise" war in the Middle East has triggered a worldwide energy shock, particularly following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. However, he reassured the public that the government is taking proactive measures:

  • Procurement Efforts: The government is actively contacting multiple international sources to ensure a steady flow of oil.

  • Increased Supply: He noted that despite the logistics hurdles, the volume of oil currently being supplied to the market is actually higher than in previous weeks, suggesting that the "shortage" at pumps is largely driven by artificial demand and panic buying.

  • Emergency Measures: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs yesterday approved the emergency import of 300,000 metric tons of diesel to stabilize the domestic market.

Nazrul Islam Khan Critiques Past "Fascism"

At the same event, Nazrul Islam Khan, a member of the BNP Standing Committee and Advisor to the Prime Minister, delivered a scathing critique of the ousted Awami League administration.

  • Democracy and Baksal: Khan argued that while the previous regime claimed to be the guardians of democracy, they had historically dismantled it, citing the 1975 Baksal era as a precursor to recent "fascist" rule.

  • Electoral Mandate: He praised the people of Bangladesh for their "accurate calculations" in the February 12, 2026, general elections, which saw a landslide victory for the BNP under the leadership of Tarique Rahman.

  • Warning to Propagandists: Khan warned that those spreading "false propaganda" against the new government’s efforts to rebuild the economy would eventually be held accountable by the public.

National Reconstruction

The speakers at the discussion, held to mark Independence and National Day, emphasized that the current administration is focused on "national reconstruction" after 15 years of institutional damage. They called for patience as the government navigates the dual challenges of a global energy crisis and the internal transition toward a more transparent and accountable financial system.

END/SMA/AJ