Bangladesh Bank officials on Monday staged a demonstration on the central bank premises, voicing frustration over the failure to approve a proposed amendment to the Bangladesh Bank Order that they say is crucial for ensuring institutional autonomy and strengthening regulatory authority.

The protest took place in front of the Bangladesh Bank’s 30th building under the banner of the

Bangladesh Bank Officers’ Welfare Council, which represents officials across the central bank.

Addressing the gathering, council president AKM Masum Billah said that Bangladesh Bank had sent the amendment proposal to the finance ministry in early October, aiming to secure greater operational independence and a stronger legal framework.

However, the proposal was not approved, despite earlier support from finance adviser when he served as Bangladesh Bank governor.

Billah said that the adviser later informed the current governor through a letter that implementing the amendment was not necessary now.

This contradictory position is why we are demanding his resignation, even if only for a single day, Billah said.

He also noted that two major political parties contesting the February 12 national election had pledged in their manifestos to ensure an autonomous central bank.

The council, he said, expected the next government to move quickly on the issue.

In a written statement, council GS Golam Mostafa Srabon said that the prolonged inaction had created widespread frustration among officials.

He said that meaningful financial sector reform and long-term economic stability depended on an independent and capable central bank, and warned that further delays could undermine confidence in regulatory oversight.