Democratisation of economy is BNP’s goal, says Amir Khosru

The BNP leader says citizens will become “responsible taxpayers” once living standards improve through inclusive economic reforms

BNP’s senior leader Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury says his party’s goal is the “democratisation” of Bangladesh’s economy.

Speaking at an event marking the July Uprising on Thursday, he said the country’s future depends on ensuring that every citizen becomes a stakeholder in economic development.

“Bringing democracy only in politics will not work in Bangladesh; we need to democratise the economy as well,” he added. “This means every citizen must have a share in the country’s economic activities.

“There must be a level playing field. No group should be favoured or sponsored -- the economy must be for everyone.”

Khosru, a member of BNP’s National Standing Committee described this policy direction as a continuation of what the party’s founder Ziaur Rahman initiated. “Now we want to institutionalise that,” he said.

He explained that the BNP has already developed plans to ensure participation from all segments of society.

“We want to bring everyone into the economic fold -- from blacksmiths and potters to weavers and educated professionals. We want women involved, and even those who have retired -- we want to engage them in productive ways.”

He argued that once people become economically empowered, their standards of living will rise, and that will lead to more engaged citizens.

“When this economic participation improves lives, people become responsible citizens. They will pay taxes, and by paying taxes, they earn the right to demand accountability.

“They’ll be able to say ‘This cannot be done with my tax money. That cannot be done. My tax must be used properly’,” he said.