The Ministry of Finance has decided to relieve Dr Ahsan H. Mansur from his position as Governor of Bangladesh Bank, the nation’s central bank, and has accelerated the process for appointing his successor. This development was confirmed by ministry sources on Wednesday, 25 February.
According to the sources, a distinguished economist from the United States has been proposed for the role of the new Governor. The appointment proposal has already been forwarded by the Ministry of Finance to the Prime Minister’s Office for approval. If approval is granted, the new Governor’s appointment could be finalised today.
Dr Mansur assumed office as Governor of Bangladesh Bank on 13 August 2024. During his tenure, he contributed significantly to international organisations such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and BRAC Bank, and played a pivotal advisory role for the government in formulating policies for Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects.
Education and Professional Profile of Dr Ahsan H. Mansur
The following table summarises Dr Mansur’s academic background and international experience:
| Area | Description |
|---|---|
| Early Education | Began career as student and lecturer in Economics at the University of Dhaka |
| Higher Education | Master’s degree from McMaster University, Canada; PhD from Western University, Ontario |
| International Monetary Fund | Joined IMF in 1981 during PhD; worked in Fiscal Affairs and Policy Review & Development Departments |
| Middle East & Asia | Oversaw IMF operations in Middle East and Central Asia, 1996–2007 |
| Government Advisory Roles | Economic advisor to former Finance Minister Wahidul Haque (1989); contributed to VAT introduction in 1991 |
Dr Mansur’s extensive experience with the IMF spans multiple regions, including the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and Central America, where he provided strategic economic guidance and policy advice. His analytical expertise and international exposure have played a crucial role in shaping Bangladesh’s economic policies.
Economists believe the appointment of a new Governor could significantly impact the country’s financial stability and international trade relations, particularly in attracting foreign investment and directing monetary policy.
The Ministry of Finance is moving swiftly to complete the approval process to ensure that the operations and policy framework of Bangladesh Bank remain uninterrupted. This transition is seen as a new chapter in both the bank’s internal management and the formulation of the nation’s external economic policies.
Once the appointment is confirmed, Bangladesh Bank will enter a new era of leadership, potentially influencing the country’s economic trajectory and strengthening its position in the global financial landscape.