Moving ahead with purpose and optimism in 2025
We welcome the new year with the belief that it will bring fresh opportunities for Bangladesh. Following the transformative events of 2024, including the historic July uprising that ousted the autocratic regime of Awami League, Bangladesh now has the chance to move towards a freer, more democratic future. While our political achievements last year were remarkable, they outpaced our economic progress. In 2025, therefore, the focus must shift significantly towards revitalising our economy.
Despite the accolades of 2024, including being named "Country of the Year" by The Economist, the challenges facing the economy cannot be overstated. Inflation, for instance, has remained above 9 percent since March 2023, despite policy tightening by the authorities, causing immense hardship for ordinary citizens. The strain on foreign exchange reserves and external accounts also persisted, as exports failed to grow enough to bolster forex inflows, even with a contraction in imports. Moreover, private investment remains lacklustre, and non-performing loans have surged to a multi-year high. Amid these challenges, there is a perception that the interim government has not prioritised the economy adequately. Without urgent and sustained efforts in this regard, it will be difficult to return to a sustainable growth trajectory.
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On a brighter note, with the various reform commissions set to present their recommendations by the end of January, we expect significant legal and electoral reforms aimed at improving the country's overall governance structure. The timeline for the next general election—likely between late 2025 and early 2026—will also be a topic of extensive debate. A smooth and transparent election process could help mitigate political tensions. In this context, the formation of the consensus commission, which Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus is set to lead himself, is a promising development. Political consensus among all parties and stakeholders is vital, and an early, well-structured national dialogue should be a priority. Achieving this will likely be the interim government's greatest challenge in 2025.
If the government follows this roadmap, we urge all political parties to refrain from disruptive, agitational activities that could undermine the unity we so desperately need to move forward as a nation. The enormous sacrifices made in 2024 have opened a rare window of opportunity to build a peaceful, prosperous nation. It is now the responsibility of the interim government, political parties, and other key stakeholders to seize this moment and deliver meaningful progress.
With that said, we extend our heartfelt wishes for a happy 2025. Let us remember that the future we aspire to is only achievable through collective effort and unity.
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