Government's policies
This refers to the prime minister's concern regarding the civil servants that her government is still trying to bring back confidence among the public servants that was lost during the army-backed caretaker regime. She alleged that a sluggish situation is still prevailing, the regime is facing trouble in doing government's works for the people. She also alleged that the army-backed caretaker government was engaged in absurd works in the name of eradicating corruption. She also accused the BNP-led 4-party alliance government of destroying the morality of the public servants. There were stalemate, fear and panic. She added that her government could not overcome these adverse factors yet. But she said that in the near future these obstacles created by the caretaker government would be removed.
It was an arbitrary style during the era of previous governments and it was indeed too fierce. However, another extreme has been emerging over the recent few months, causing the delay of important programmes. With too many obstructions, both internal and external opposition, the government lacks confidence. The government does not implement any other policy adjustment plan after the liberalisation for service sub-sectors. Foreign investors are waiting for the government to reform the tax structure, cut subsidies and reduce deficit, so that the national economy can be more robust. But the government has repeatedly delayed programmes and plans, affecting the confidence of foreign investors. The government has to delay a number of important plans because of the strong opposition from the opposition party, civil society, related industries and non-government organisations (NGOs). It has no choice but to delay the implementation as it is afraid of losing votes. For example, the business sector will never get prepared for the removal of subsidies and protection if the government keeps delaying the implementation of new policies. Those who are interest-oriented will ask for more after they have succeeded once. How many times could the government entertain their opposition?
Reform is always painful. The government cannot expect business owners and entrepreneurs to support reform. The government may sometimes need to adhere to the right and appropriate policies.
Civil servants are our own countrymen, the government must find ways to talk to them.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel.
Comments