BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi criticized the interim government for failing to control soaring prices of essential commodities and ease the struggles of ordinary citizens. Speaking at a press conference on Saturday (January 11) at BNP’s central office in Naya Paltan, he stated that the government has been unable to curb market syndicates, leaving people distressed by uncontrolled price hikes.

Rizvi pointed out that amid inflation, the government increased VAT and supplementary duties on over a hundred goods and services midway through the 2024-25 fiscal year. This move, he argued, further raised the cost of living, adding to the burden on people already struggling with skyrocketing prices. Items affected include life-saving medicines, LPG gas, powdered milk, biscuits, ketchup, tissue paper, fruits, soap, and footwear—affecting middle- and lower-income groups the most.

He further stated that political upheavals driven by student and public protests have already disrupted trade and commerce, with many businesses yet to recover from losses. In such a situation, increasing taxes is a self-defeating move, especially when the nation is grappling with high inflation.