In a statement, the Unity Council said that a subsequent press release suggesting the National Board of Revenue (NBR) would not be abolished until the issuance of an ordinance created "unnecessary confusion" among the public, particularly within the media community.

Citing Section 1(2) of the promulgated ordinance, the Unity Council argued that the NBR must be abolished once the government issues a gazette notification to operationalize the ordinance.

The statement outlined four key demands:

  • Immediate repeal of the promulgated ordinance
  • Removal of NBR Chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan
  • Public disclosure of the consultative explanation proposal on revenue reform
  • Inclusive discussions on the proposed reform draft involving all stakeholders, including government bodies, civil society, and relevant empowered members

“We need to ensure a proper and sustainable revenue system,” the Council said.

They claimed that their demands are logical and serve the broader national interest, as acknowledged by the country’s leading economists, think tanks, and other experts. “We want a fundamental reform of the NBR—one that aligns with the best international systems and methods,” the statement added.

The Council also expressed concern that the proposed reforms should not be used to serve the interests of any specific group under the guise of national security.

“The country and its development plans should be accurately reflected; revenue collection must become more effective, progressive, and free from corruption. The reform must not become a tool for special security interests,” the statement read.

The Council questioned why the government has yet to respond clearly to their four-point demand, asking: “Who is instigating the opposition against us?”

As the government has not provided a definitive response to their demands, the Council confirmed that their previously announced program of action remains unchanged.

On Sunday, they have called for a full-day strike at all Income Tax, Customs, and VAT offices, excluding Customs House and LC services, from 9am to 5pm. Export and international services will remain exempt from the strike.

Additionally, they have announced another full-day strike on Monday at all offices except for international services under the International Member.

The Unity Council has urged all officers and employees from tax, customs, and VAT-related departments in Dhaka to gather at the NBR premises at 9am on both days.

The statement also noted a heightened security presence at the NBR building on Saturday morning, including personnel from the police, BGB, and RAB.

Council members expressed concern over the heightened security presence, noting that it raised questions in their minds.