Musk-Led DOGE Cancels Bangladesh Political Project Amid Spending Cuts

The Musk-led DOGE has canceled a $29 million project aimed at strengthening Bangladesh’s political landscape in an effort to reduce government spending. Alongside this, potential collaboration between Elon Musk and Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser for the Starlink satellite internet service was discussed. Additional project cancellations across various countries are part of a broader strategy to save taxpayer dollars.

On February 16, 2025, the Elon Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) announced the cancellation of several overseas projects, including a $29 million initiative aimed at strengthening the political landscape in Bangladesh. This decision is part of a broader strategy to reduce government expenditure and save taxpayer money.

In discussions, Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Professor Muhammad Yunus, expressed interest in collaborating with Musk to launch the Starlink satellite internet service in Bangladesh. Yunus highlighted the transformative potential for improving internet connectivity, especially for rural areas and vulnerable populations in the country.

Musk responded positively to Yunus’s invitation to visit Bangladesh for the project’s potential launch, recognizing the significance of enhancing digital access for the nation’s youth and marginalized communities. Their conversation focused on Starlink’s capability to revolutionize satellite communications in developing regions.

In addition to the Bangladesh project, DOGE canceled numerous other spending initiatives aimed at enhancing various programs across several countries. This includes $10 million for voluntary medical circumcision in Mozambique and $22 million for promoting voter turnout in India, alongside $39 million for fiscal federalism in Nepal.

Further cancellations included $1.5 million for voter confidence initiatives in Liberia, $14 million for social cohesion efforts in Mali, and $47 million dedicated to improving educational outcomes in Asia. DOGE’s cancellation report also highlighted $32 million intended for the Prague Civil Society Centre and $40 million for a gender equality hub in Serbia.

This comprehensive reassessment of spending reflects the broader agenda of the Trump administration’s DOGE, which seeks access to crucial financial systems to enforce stringent budget cuts. Previously, President Trump criticized USAID for alleged mismanagement, suggesting that the agency operate with higher accountability to prevent perceived corruption.

The DOGE’s recent decision to cancel various international projects, including the one in Bangladesh, underscores the administration’s commitment to reducing government expenses. The potential partnership between Elon Musk and Bangladesh for the Starlink project could significantly improve internet accessibility in the region, highlighting the contrast between cuts in federal funding and private investment initiatives. Overall, the cancellations span numerous countries and programs, representing a strategic effort to streamline government operations and spending.

Original Source: www.tribuneindia.com