Bangladesh Bank has proposed granting its governor the full status and privileges of a cabinet minister, a move that would significantly elevate the position within the country’s governance structure.

The central bank has recently drafted the Bangladesh Bank (Amendment) Ordinance 2025, following recommendations from financial experts, and submitted it to the Finance Division for review. If approved, this proposal would greatly enhance the governor’s seniority and influence within the administration.

At present, the Bangladesh Bank governor holds the 15th position on the national Warrant of Precedence (1986), ranking below the cabinet secretary and principal secretary, but above other government secretaries. This current rank is shared with officials such as the attorney general.

Granting the governor ministerial status would signal increased independence and authority for the nation’s top financial regulator, allowing them to operate with enhanced executive powers.

If enacted, the new rank would come with a suite of state-provided benefits and privileges, consistent with those provided to other cabinet ministers. These include:

A tax-exempt monthly salary of Tk 1,05,000, plus a daily allowance of Tk 2,000 and a regulatory allowance of Tk 10,000.
Access to a discretionary fund of Tk 10 lakh.
A fully-maintained government residence, with all utility bills (gas, electricity, water, and telephone) covered by the state.
Multiple government-funded vehicles, including a full-time car and an additional jeep for official travel outside Dhaka, with all maintenance costs borne by the government.

This move, if approved, would not only elevate the position but also symbolise a stronger, more autonomous role for the Bangladesh Bank governor in the country’s financial governance.