Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed has acknowledged that government policies are not without flaws, urging critics—especially younger economists—to take a more balanced view by considering both the shortcomings and achievements of the administration.
“We are not saints—we’ve made mistakes,” Dr Ahmed said while addressing a seminar at the National Board of Revenue (NBR) headquarters in Agargaon on Monday. “But it also feels good when our positive steps are acknowledged.”
The seminar, organized to discuss recent changes in income tax, VAT, and customs policies in the new fiscal budget, drew officials, economists, and journalists alike.
Responding to growing criticism from young economists, Dr Ahmed said, “Many say they don’t see anything good. But if you’re determined not to see, nothing will appear good. You need insight to see the full picture.”
He noted that some of his critics were once his students, including the current governor of Bangladesh Bank. “I started teaching at Dhaka University in 1970. Many of those who now criticize were in my classroom,” he remarked.
Dr Ahmed also urged the media to maintain objectivity, cautioning against emotionally charged narratives. “There are allegations that we’re becoming fascist. Constructive criticism is always welcome. But reporting driven by emotional bias can do more harm than good,” he said. “Don’t just focus on the empty half of the glass—see the half that’s full too.”
NBR Chairman Abdur Rahman Khan, who presided over the event, echoed similar sentiments. “We have weaknesses, no doubt. There are serious leakages in customs, and we must address them. But revenue won’t increase just by enacting laws—implementation is key.”
Khan highlighted the gap between policy and practice by citing last year’s tobacco tax. “Despite increasing taxes on cigarettes, revenue didn’t go up. Many consumers are switching to foreign cigarettes that often enter the country illegally.”
On revenue targets for the new fiscal year, he added, “The budget gives us high targets every year. Ambition is necessary. This time, we are determined to meet those goals.”
Also present at the event was Economic Reporters Forum President Daulat Akhtar Mala.