Energy sector biggest challenge after 17 years of mismanagement: Commerce minister
Khandakar Abdul Muktadir says Bangladesh needs time to stabilise energy supplies and attract investment despite short-term public hardship.
The country's biggest challenge is the energy sector, stated Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir today (5 August) blaming what he described as 17 years of mismanagement by the previous government for the current situation.
He made the remarks while addressing a discussion marking the July Mass Uprising Day at the Sylhet District Shilpakala Academy, where families of those killed during the uprising and July fighters were also honoured.
"The biggest challenge is energy. The current situation in the energy sector is the result of 17 years of mismanagement by the previous government," the minister said.
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Speaking about the ongoing energy crisis, Muktadir said Bangladesh remains dependent on imported gas and urged people to be patient while the government works to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply and create an investment-friendly environment.
"We need some time to meet the country's energy demand, ensure uninterrupted power supply and attract investment. Even if this temporarily disrupts normal life, we have to accept it," he said.
The minister also said accountability and a sense of responsibility towards the people are essential for transforming the country.
"If we embrace accountability and responsibility towards the people at the core of our work, changing the country is not difficult," he added.
Highlighting the role of young people, Muktadir said development requires a collective effort and that the government wants to harness the strength of the country's youth to build a better Bangladesh.
During the programme, several July fighters alleged that they had faced disrespect while seeking services from different government offices.
One of them, Liton Ahmed, said no one had joined the movement for financial benefits.
"We did not take part in the movement to receive allowances," he said, calling for greater recognition of those who participated in the uprising.
He also expressed dissatisfaction over the slow progress of cases related to the July Mass Uprising, alleging that police officials were asking July fighters to provide video footage of incidents.
Family members of those killed during the uprising became emotional while recalling their loved ones.
Speaking at the event, Sylhet-3 MP Mohammed Abdul Malique said the July movement had saved Bangladesh from a different future and praised Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus for his role following the political transition.
He also urged authorities not to undermine those who took part in the uprising, describing them as "the pride of the nation".
At the programme, 14 families of those killed during the July Mass Uprising were honoured and received financial assistance.
