Advisor Asif Confirms Candidacy for Dhaka, Resignation Hinges on Govt. Decision

Asif Mahmud Shajib Bhuiyan, Advisor to the Interim Government, has applied to become a voter in the Dhaka-10 parliamentary constituency. He confirmed that he will be a candidate in the upcoming national election, and his plan to contest from Dhaka is "fairly certain." However, the date of his resignation from the Advisor Council depends on a "high-level decision" of the government.

Advisor Mahmud, who holds the portfolios for the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives, and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, submitted his voter application at the Dhanmondi Thana Election Officer's office in Green Road, which falls under the Dhaka-10 constituency, on Sunday afternoon.

Securing His Vote in Dhaka

Speaking to journalists afterwards, Asif Mahmud stated: "Since it is fairly certain that I will be contesting the election from Dhaka, I am bringing my vote to Dhaka as well. Because I want to ensure my vote is not wasted. Although I was registered as a voter before, I couldn't vote in any election. Two elections happened after I became a voter, in 2018 and 2024. No one could vote then. I am ensuring that I can vote in the election."

He added, "No final decision has been made on exactly where I will contest from, but I will contest from Dhaka, Insha'Allah."

When asked if he would join any political party, Advisor Mahmud replied, "So far, the plan is to contest as an independent candidate. Let's see what happens next."

No Discussion with BNP

A journalist pointed out that Dhaka-10 is one of the seats where the BNP is yet to declare a candidate and asked if the seat was being kept vacant for him or if there were ongoing discussions with the BNP. Asif Mahmud responded firmly: "I have not had any discussion with anyone. Whether any political party keeps a seat vacant or not is not my concern. I will make my decision personally and individually."

He also confirmed that he plans to reside in the Dhanmondi area after resigning from the government, which is why he is becoming a voter there—to ensure his vote is not wasted.

Resignation: A High-Level Decision

In response to a question about when he would resign from the Advisor Council and join the public, the Advisor said: "I am confirming that I will contest the election. As for when I will resign, you know that much depends on a high-level decision of the government. I will discuss it and inform you soon."

Progress on Reform, Justice, and Elections

Addressing questions about the political deadlock over the implementation of the "July Charter" and the timing of a referendum, Advisor Mahmud stated that no decision has been reached yet. He noted that the government has given political parties time for discussion and will make a final decision after receiving their feedback.

Regarding the government's mandate, he said: "This government had three tasks: reform, justice, and democratic transition. You can see all three tasks are progressing equally. We know there will be significant progress on the issue of justice this month. Reform activities are also ongoing, nearing completion. Once the process and issues are defined, there will be no doubt."

He reiterated the government's commitment to the election: "The government has very clearly stated that the election will be held in February and is saying so repeatedly. The government is preparing all stakeholders and seeking everyone's cooperation to hold a free and fair election."

Stance on Women's Cricket Harassment Allegations

Advisor Mahmud was also asked about the recent sexual harassment allegations in the Bangladesh women's cricket team. He called the situation "very unfortunate" and confirmed he had spoken with the BCB (Bangladesh Cricket Board), which has formed an investigation committee.

"We want to state clearly that we must ensure the safety and deserved respect of women in all fields, including sports. If the investigation committee's report confirms the allegations, we will certainly take appropriate disciplinary action," the Sports Advisor said.

He also mentioned that his office has contacted the victim, and the government will provide maximum support should she decide to take any legal action. When asked if the government would form its own investigation committee, he replied, "Since the matter is internal to the BCB, we initially want to rely on the BCB's investigation. We will decide on further action later."