Parliament has passed a bill abolishing the provision that allowed members of parliament to import cars duty-free, marking a significant shift aimed at ensuring equity and fiscal discipline.
The bill was placed in parliament today (26 April) by Law Minister Asaduzzaman and was subsequently passed.
Explaining the rationale behind the move, the minister said, “After being elected on a commitment to serve the people, allowing MPs to import duty-free vehicles in their own names is not consistent with that pledge. At the same time, such tax exemptions create a visible disparity between elected representatives and the citizens, who are the rightful owners of the state.”
“In this context, and in light of the visionary outlook of the Leader of the House, it has become necessary to reconsider the existing duty-free facility for members of the Bangladesh National Parliament in view of current economic realities. To reduce public expenditure, enhance transparency and accountability, and ensure equality with citizens, this bill has been brought to abolish Article 3C of The Members of Parliament (Remuneration and Allowances) Order, 1973,” he added.
Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed put the bill to a vote, and it was passed by voice vote of the lawmakers present.
As a result, MPs will no longer be entitled to import duty-free vehicles.
Earlier, on 23 April, the cabinet committee had decided to withdraw the privilege.
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