The General Secretary of the Socialist Party of Bangladesh (SPB), Bazlur Rashid Firoz, has issued a scathing critique of the nation’s historical foreign policy and the conduct of the recently departed interim administration. Speaking at a discussion titled “Expectations from the New Government: Priorities for the First 100 Days” at the National Press Club on Tuesday, Firoz alleged that a “clandestine trade agreement” with the United States was struck in the waning hours of the interim government’s tenure.
The Financial Toll of the Secret Accord
According to Firoz, this confidential agreement mandates the import of 42,000 crore BDT (approximately £2.5 billion) worth of American agricultural products over the next five years. He warned that flooding the local market with foreign produce would systematically dismantle the domestic farming sector, pushing millions of local cultivators toward financial ruin.
In light of these revelations, the SPB leader demanded that the newly elected government publish a comprehensive White Paper detailing the 18-month activities of the interim administration, alongside the public disclosure of all international treaties signed with India, the US, and Japan over the last 55 years.
Geopolitical Ties and Economic Concerns
Firoz did not reserve his criticism solely for Western ties. He characterised the previous Awami League administration’s relationship with India as one of “servitude,” yet acknowledged that geographic reality dictates a relationship based on “equity and mutual dignity” rather than hostility. He specifically noted the lack of progress in revoking the “predatory” Adani power deal and highlighted the upcoming 2026 Ganges Water Treaty renewal as a litmus test for the new government.
A “Club of Millionaires”
Reflecting on the recent general elections, the socialist leader lamented the dominance of capital over democratic values. He pointed out that with 236 out of 300 seats held by millionaires, the parliament has effectively become a “Millionaires’ Club,” where the interests of the working class are likely to be sidelined.
Furthermore, he called for a rigorous investigation into the staggering corruption allegations surfacing against former interim advisers, including specific claims involving 11,000 crore BDT and 14,000 crore BDT linked to prominent figures. Firoz concluded by urging the government to prioritise the rehabilitation of the “July Uprising” martyrs’ families and to implement a “pond-based employment scheme” to transform the livelihoods of 20 million citizens.