Black marketers exploiting fuel crisis to undermine govt image, says Minister

Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has accused black market operators of exploiting the ongoing fuel crisis to damage the government’s image, amid supply pressures linked to conflict in the Middle East.

Speaking at a discussion organized by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) at the Institution of Engineers auditorium in Dhaka on Friday, marking Independence and National Day, the minister said some traders were hoarding fuel and engaging in illicit activities to create artificial shortages.

He noted that the current energy crunch in Bangladesh has been driven by disruptions in global supply due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. 

However, he emphasized that the government has stepped up efforts to secure fuel from multiple sources and maintain steady supply.

“The government is maintaining strong communication and taking proactive measures to import fuel from various sources. In fact, more fuel is being supplied now than before,” the minister said.

At the same event, BNP Standing Committee member and adviser to the prime minister Nazrul Islam Khan sharply criticized the previous Awami League government. 

He alleged that those who once claimed credit for establishing independence and democracy had repeatedly undermined democratic principles.

Referring to past elections, Khan said public expectations had been shaped by speculation that another party might win, but ultimately voters made their choice decisively. 

He added that the people supported those who had long struggled on the streets under the leadership of Tarique Rahman.

Khan also called on party leaders and activists to respond firmly to what he described as propaganda campaigns against the current government.