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Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury on Monday assured depositors of the five merged Shariah-based banks that their money would be returned in phases, saying protecting public savings remains the government’s highest priority.
Speaking during the discussion on the proposed national budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year in Parliament, the finance minister said the government is committed to safeguarding depositors’ interests while taking action against those responsible for financial irregularities.
“I want to assure depositors that protecting the savings of the people is the government’s top priority,” he said.
To provide immediate relief, the minister announced that individual depositors of the five merged banks will be allowed to withdraw up to Tk 200,000 from their current and savings accounts immediately. The remaining balances will be repaid gradually in phases.
The assurance comes amid concerns among customers following the merger of the five Shariah-based banks as part of the government’s banking sector reform initiatives.
Amir Khasru also announced that the government has decided to repeal Section 18(a) of the Bank Resolution Act, 2026, following consultations with relevant stakeholders.
He said the move reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring greater confidence in the banking sector while protecting the interests of depositors.
“Our message is clear: those who looted public wealth will not be spared, while the security of depositors’ funds will be ensured,” the finance minister told Parliament.
The government has been pursuing a series of banking reforms aimed at restoring financial discipline, improving governance and rebuilding public confidence in the country’s banking system, particularly in financially distressed institutions.
