'Hasinomics' led to rise in loan defaults, corruption: Rizvi

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi alleged that the country’s economic distress—including escalating corruption and soaring loan defaults—was a result of what he termed “Hasinomics,” referring to economic policies of the past decade and a half.

He made the allegations at a discussion marking the 35th martyrdom anniversary of Dr. Shamsul Alam Khan Milon, organised by the ‘90’s DUCSU and Sarbadaliya Chhatra Oikya’ at the National Press Club, on Thursday (November 27).

Rizvi claimed that corruption had become institutionalised and that loan defaulters had enjoyed state patronage. He alleged that the volume of default loans had reached Tk 6.5 trillion due to a system that allowed borrowers to take new loans without repaying old ones.

Referring to the recent gold irregularities in bank vaults, Rizvi said the recovery of 832 bhori of gold from two vaults was alarming and raised concerns about further undisclosed misappropriations.

He also questioned inconsistencies between Sheikh Hasina’s declared assets and what he described as “public discussions,” calling for investigation.

Rizvi further accused the previous government of politicising state institutions, including the administration, judiciary, police, and RAB, and described the former rule as “authoritarian and fascist.”

He also reiterated allegations regarding BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia’s health complications, claiming they worsened due to “government conspiracy.”

The event was presided over by BNP Chairperson’s adviser and former minister Amanullah Aman. BNP Standing Committee member Nazrul Islam Khan and other senior leaders also addressed the discussion.