Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Advisor to the Ministries of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, and Water Resources, has said that their role is not limited to just overseeing an election. "We took on this responsibility for three key tasks—reform, justice, and elections. Each is challenging in its own way. We didn't accept this role solely to conduct elections," she stated.
She made these remarks while speaking to reporters following the 24th National Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Bangladesh Zoological Society, held at Dhaka University's Nawab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Hall.
Rizwana Hasan reaffirmed, "From day one, we've said that the Chief Advisor has set a clear timeline—the election will be held by June. There is no possibility of extending that date. So there should be no confusion or speculation surrounding it."
She expressed concern over ongoing disruptions: "Since we assumed responsibility, people with various demands have been blocking roads. This has brought the city to a standstill. We’re finding it extremely difficult to resolve this. We can only carry out our duties if we receive cooperation from all sides."
She further emphasised, "If we can perform our responsibilities properly, then our presence in this role is justified. But if we fail to do so, then continuing to hold this position serves no purpose."
In response to Dr Yunus's resignation, Rizwana Hasan noted, "There are important duties still tied to this month. If there's anything to be said—whether about the election or the responsibilities—please hear it directly from the Chief Advisor."
Addressing the issue of pressure, she said, "There's only one kind of pressure we feel—the expectation that we must perform. That's the only pressure we recognise. Beyond that, there is none."
She concluded, "Everyone seems to be taking to the streets with their demands, paralysing Dhaka in the process. Are we able to fix this? As we've always said, we didn't come into power—we accepted a responsibility. And we can only fulfil that responsibility if we have collective support. Meeting expectations is one thing—fulfilling responsibilities is another. What truly matters is whether we're effectively able to carry out our duties."
