Former Commerce Minister and BNP Standing Committee Member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has called for direct government participation in the capital market to restore stakeholders’ trust and stimulate real growth.

Speaking on Monday at a workshop titled ‘Capital Market Reconstruction and Reality,’ organised by the Economic Reporters’ Forum (ERF) in Paltan, Dhaka, Amir Khosru stressed that the development of the capital market requires more than just introducing promising companies for Initial Public Offerings (IPOs).

He warned that excessive regulation by authorities, without effective self-regulation within the market, is weakening its institutional capacity.

Khosru highlighted the need for the democratisation of Bangladesh’s economy to achieve sustainable growth and pointed out that both domestic and foreign investors are keen to explore investment opportunities in the country’s expanding economy.

Addressing a question on reforms, the BNP leader said that fundamental changes in the country’s political culture are essential for meaningful progress.

He reaffirmed BNP’s commitment to strengthening the economy and capital market, pledging, ‘If we are voted to power, I give you a commitment to make the economy and the capital market stronger.’

The event also featured remarks from ERF President Doulot Akter Mala, Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) Chairman Mominul Islam, Chittagong Stock Exchange (CSE) Chairman AKM Habibur Rahman.