PM proposes zakat management overhaul for poverty reduction

Prime Minister (PM) Tarique Rahman has outlined plans to reform and strengthen Bangladesh’s zakat management system, saying a more structured and targeted approach could significantly reduce poverty over the next decade.

Speaking at an iftar gathering for ulema, Islamic scholars and orphaned children at the State Guest House Jamuna on Saturday, the prime minister said zakat, one of the five pillars of Islam, holds immense potential for social transformation if managed effectively.

“Many affluent individuals in our society pay zakat on their own, while some contribute through the government’s Zakat Board,” he said. “If zakat is distributed in a planned and organised manner, it can make a major contribution to poverty alleviation.”

Citing research estimates, Tarique noted that between Tk 20,000 crore and Tk 25,000 crore in zakat is collected annually in Bangladesh, with some projections suggesting even higher figures. However, he said the lack of a coordinated distribution framework raises questions about how effectively these funds are being used to lift people out of poverty.

Referring to Islamic principles, the prime minister said zakat should ideally be distributed in a way that enables recipients to become self reliant and not require assistance again the following year.

Bangladesh has around four crore families, he said, and if the poorest households are properly identified, a phased programme could be introduced. Under such a plan, five lakh underprivileged families could receive Tk 1 lakh each annually, potentially helping many of them achieve financial stability within a year.

“If zakat is managed in a targeted and well planned way, it could play an effective role in reducing poverty within 10 to 15 years through zakat management alone,” he said.

Tarique called on religious scholars to help raise awareness among wealthy citizens about structured zakat distribution. He also suggested reorganising the existing Zakat Board under the Ministry of Religious Affairs by involving leading Islamic scholars, religious experts and government officials to make it more dynamic and outcome focused.

“By using zakat for poverty alleviation, Bangladesh has the opportunity to set an example in the Islamic world,” he said.

Before iftar, the prime minister exchanged greetings with guests and spoke with orphaned students about their wellbeing. He described the event as a reflection of the state’s responsibility toward orphans and said it should inspire affluent members of society to extend greater support.

“If every wealthy person follows the guidance of the Holy Quran and Hadith, orphaned children, despite their hardship, can move forward with confidence,” he said.

Tarique also reminded citizens that Ramadan is a month of sacrifice, restraint and compassion, expressing concern that some people seek excessive profit during the holy month. He urged those engaging in unfair practices not to create hardship for others.

The event was attended by several senior officials and religious leaders, including Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Minister Dr AZM Zahid Hosen, Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Houssain Kaikobad, Jatiya Sangsad Whip Mia Nuruddin Ahmed Apu, As Sunnah Foundation Chairman Sheikh Ahmadullah and National Mosque Baitul Mukarram Khatib Mufti Mohammad Abdul Malek.

A special prayer was offered before iftar, seeking peace, prosperity and welfare for the nation.