Eminent economist Prof Rehman Sobhan has emphasized the importance of holding the government accountable for the lack of effective implementation of reforms in Bangladesh. Speaking at the 9th SANEM Annual Economists’ Conference 2026 in Dhaka, Prof Sobhan highlighted the need for translating reforms from theoretical concepts into practical actions executed by the bureaucracy and evaluated based on real-world impact.
He suggested that an active opposition, in collaboration with civil society, should monitor the implementation of reforms to ensure transparency and effectiveness. Prof Sobhan, who chairs the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), pointed out that reforms in Bangladesh often remain theoretical exercises without proper assessment of their outcomes.
Drawing comparisons with Southeast Asian countries that have adopted performance budgeting to enhance public expenditure accountability, Prof Sobhan criticized the under-utilization of health and education budgets in Bangladesh, leading to substandard services despite significant allocations.
He emphasized the necessity of forming coalitions within the government and society to drive meaningful reforms, citing historical examples like the Six Point Programme during the Pakistani regime as successful mobilization efforts. In contrast, he criticized current reform agendas, such as the BNP’s 31 points, for lacking grassroots support and mobilization.
Furthermore, Prof Sobhan expressed concern over the fragmented nature of civil society in Bangladesh, contrasting it with India’s cohesive coalitions that have successfully advocated for social reforms like the right to food and education.
Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya, a Distinguished Fellow at CPD, noted that the interim government post the July 2024 uprising showed pro-reform tendencies but lacked a clear vision and strategic planning. He urged the political leadership to take the initiative in driving reforms instead of relying on external entities like the World Bank or IMF.
Former finance secretary Mohammad Muslim Chowdhury recommended structural changes such as separating local government civil service from the central service, embracing digital delivery mechanisms, and ensuring merit-based appointments to counteract bureaucratic politicization.