Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury informed the parliament that the ministries and divisions together spent a total of Taka 982 crore 91 lakh 74 thousand on various programmes undertaken across the country to observe Mujib Borsho during the previous regime. Replying to a starred question from opposition lawmaker Mahbubur Rahman Belal (Rangpur-3), the finance minister said the expenditure covered implementation of different programmes in districts and upazilas, installation of portraits and memorial structures, construction of bronze, copper and marble statues in different government offices, and installation of state-sponsored digital countdown boards.
No Decision on Audit or Investigation
Responding to a supplementary question from the same lawmaker, the finance minister said no decision has yet been taken regarding any audit, investigation or other measures relating to the expenditure. The supplementary question sought to know whether the government had initiated any audit or investigation into the expenditure and whether those responsible for any misuse or irregularities involving public funds would be brought to justice.
Government Reviewing Public Expenditure
Khosru, however, said the issue should not be viewed in isolation, noting that there had been expenditure under several other heads during the previous government as well. He added that the government is reviewing different areas of public expenditure and that decisions would be taken at an appropriate time after completing the assessment process. "We are conducting stock-taking. I am confident that appropriate decisions will be taken in the future," he told the House.
Lawmaker's Concerns
The lawmaker also wanted to know what measures the government would take to prevent unnecessary public spending for promoting any individual in the future. The finance minister reiterated that no final decision had yet been made on those issues, while indicating that the government is examining the overall matter before taking any further step.
Significance and Implications
The disclosure of the expenditure on Mujib Borsho programmes raises questions about the allocation of public funds and the priorities of the previous government. The current government's review of public expenditure suggests a commitment to transparency and accountability, which could lead to reforms in how public funds are managed and spent in the future. This matter is significant for Bangladesh as it pertains to the use of public resources and the legacy of Mujib Borsho celebrations.
