Dr. M A Titumir, adviser to the interim government, has said a forensic audit review found that GDP growth figures were systematically overstated during the Awami League government's tenure, with the inflation reaching up to 1.13 percentage points. The manipulation was detected across seven economic sectors, prompting new initiatives to bolster statistical accuracy and transparency.

Forensic audit findings

According to reports published by Dhaka Tribune and New Age on Saturday (14 November), the forensic audit uncovered systematic data manipulation in seven sectors under the previous government. This distortion has raised serious questions about the credibility of the country's macroeconomic statistics.

Steps to ensure accuracy

Following the audit results, the adviser stated that measures are being taken to enhance the precision and transparency of statistical data. He assured that necessary reforms are being implemented to prevent any recurrence of such data manipulation in the future.

Implications and next steps

Analysts suggest that the overstated GDP figures could create complications in economic planning and relations with international lending agencies. However, the adviser has expressed confidence that a new statistical policy will address these issues. A detailed report with recommendations is expected to be published soon, according to sources.