Rumeen Farhana criticized the government’s handling of the fuel situation today during a parliamentary session. The Brahmanbaria-2 lawmaker raised concerns about the apparent discrepancy between the government’s denial of a fuel crisis and the long queues witnessed at gas stations.
Speaking under Rule 71 on urgent public importance, Farhana questioned the reasoning behind the recent fuel price hikes and the resulting disruptions in office hours and schedules. She highlighted the frustration faced by drivers waiting in queues that stretch for kilometers, sometimes until midnight, without being able to access fuel, emphasizing the lack of government responsiveness to the situation.
Farhana pointed out the contradiction between ministers’ claims in parliament that there is no fuel shortage in Bangladesh and the reality faced by citizens who encounter lengthy lines at fuel stations, often extending up to 3 kilometers. She urged transparency regarding the country’s reserves of octane and diesel, questioning the adequacy of fuel supplies to stations.
Despite facing objections from ruling party MPs during her speech, Farhana continued to address the speaker, calling for accountability regarding the fuel crisis. Opposition Leader Shafiqur Rahman condemned the disrespectful gestures displayed by some members of the ruling party while Farhana was speaking, emphasizing the need for respect and decorum within the parliament.
Shafiqur emphasized the importance of upholding the dignity of the parliament and its members, regardless of political affiliations, urging all MPs to maintain respect and civility during discussions. He expressed disappointment at the behavior exhibited by some long-standing MPs towards an independent lawmaker during the session.
Earlier in the session, Gazipur-4 MP Salahuddin Aiyubi highlighted the severe consequences of prolonged load-shedding in his constituency, Kapasia, including disruptions to medical services, irrigation systems, and the academic pursuits of SSC examinees.