The sharp rise in food prices is severely impacting the lives of low- and middle-income families in Bangladesh, according to Auxiliary Bishop Subroto Boniface Gomes of the Archdiocese of Dhaka.
Speaking to Fides News Agency, Bishop Gomes highlighted the challenges faced by the population due to skyrocketing costs of essential goods.
“The sharp rise in prices, especially for food and everyday goods, is weighing on people,” said Bishop Gomes. “The rise in prices of vegetables is causing considerable difficulties for low and middle-income families.”
The bishop noted that even basic shopping has become a struggle for many. “The faithful complain that shopping in the capital’s markets, even for meat, fish, and eggs, has become an arduous task. How can families make a living? This is a priority that the government must address today,” he stressed.
Observers attribute the price surge to recent rains and floods that have devastated agricultural regions, particularly those growing vegetables, a staple in the diet of many, especially the poor.
Bishop Gomes expressed hope for decisive action from the current administration. “Effective measures from the Yunus government” are urgently needed, he emphasized, referring to the interim government led by Mohammad Yunus.
Political Transition and Church Relations
Bangladesh is undergoing a period of political transition following student-led protests between July and August 2024 that resulted in the resignation of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India. An interim government was formed to oversee the country for two years before the new elections.
Despite the challenges, relations between the Catholic Church and the interim government remain positive. “Relations are good and there is trust,” said Bishop Gomes.
However, he underscored the Church’s request for greater representation. “We have asked that, at the level of representation of cultures and religions, some Christian representatives, regardless of denomination, be included in the government and in the commissions set up for reforms.”
The interim government has established six committees to address reforms in key areas: electoral system, police, justice, anti-corruption, public administration, and the constitution.
“It is important that our views are taken into account on so many aspects of the country’s future,” added Bishop Gomes.
Jubilee Year and Pilgrimage Plans
The Catholic Church in Bangladesh inaugurated its Jubilee Year on January 8, a milestone celebrated across dioceses.
Bishop Gomes revealed that the faithful aspire to make a pilgrimage to Rome, but obtaining visas to Italy and the European Union remains a significant hurdle.
“The Bangladeshi faithful dream of a pilgrimage to Rome,” said the bishop.
“The Catholic youth movement ‘Jesus Youth’ is trying to organize a pilgrimage for young people on the occasion of the Holy Year, and we hope it will be successful,” he said.