People Have No More Expectations from Interim Government: Anis Alamgir

Renowned journalist and columnist Anis Alamgir has stated that people no longer have any expectations from the interim government. He remarked, “Given the situation prevailing in the country over the past year, people are now simply waiting for this government to step down. It is widely understood that this government cannot deliver anything more significant than it already has.”

Context and Recent Remarks:

Anis Alamgir made these comments during a recent appearance on a private television talk show.

He further elaborated:

• “If we compare with the government of 1/11 [the caretaker government of 2007–2008], they accomplished many visible tasks. However, this government has so far shown no visible achievements.”
• “The only notable action is Dr. Yunus waiving Tk 66.6 billion of public taxes for Grameen Bank, granting a five-year tax exemption.”

Observations on Government Actions:

Reference to Economist Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya:

Anis Alamgir also cited economist Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya, a close associate of the current government, who stated:

• “It is time for this government to consider an exit strategy.”
• “The government should focus on how to take this exit smoothly.”
• “Even those close to the government acknowledge it will be unable to accomplish anything further. The priority should be how to organise elections quickly and arrange for a proper exit.”

In sum, both analysts and the public appear aligned in their view that the interim government has run its course and that its continuation serves no further purpose.