Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan has announced sweeping reforms to the boards of directors of all related companies, including the plans to include student representatives to enhance transparency and accountability.
At a meeting with officials from companies under the Energy and Mineral Resources Division at Petrobangla on Wednesday, he emphasised that current practices have led to widespread corruption and mismanagement.
He criticised the practice of secretaries becoming chairpersons of these companies by their official positions, which he claimed facilitates the protection of personal interests and exacerbates corruption.
Expressing deep frustration, the adviser condemned the widespread irregularities and corruption that have affected the power and energy sectors during the Awami League government's tenure.
He pointed out that these companies have consistently fallen short of public expectations due to increased prices of power and energy repeatedly.
Besides, he vowed that henceforth, any increase in electricity prices would require a public hearing.
In response to growing public discontent, the energy adviser said that the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) has been directed to explore the possibility of reducing fuel prices starting in September.
He mentioned that BPC is currently conducting assessments and that there is a possibility of a slight decrease in fuel prices in the near future.
Addressing gas supply issues, he highlighted a severe shortage affecting both households and industries. He announced a change in the evaluation criteria for Energy Division officials, stating that their performance would now be assessed based on customer service rather than just statistics.
He emphasised that no bills would be collected from customers who do not receive gas.
During the event, Fouzul Kabir Khan faced intense questions from journalists about alleged corruption and mismanagement in the sector under the previous government.
When asked if companies involved in controversial contracts would be punished, he confirmed that he had suspended all contentious laws and pledged that problematic individuals would be gradually addressed.
