Environment, Forest and Climate Change Affairs Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has said that it is up to Nahid Islam to clarify who among the advisers is seeking a “safe exit.”
She stated that the government has no scope to comment on the matter until Nahid Islam himself explains his remarks.
Speaking to reporters at the Secretariat on Wednesday (October 8), Rizwana Hasan made the comments in response to questions about a recent interview given by Nahid Islam, convener of the National Citizens Party (NCP). In that interview, Nahid claimed that “many advisers have developed liaisons with different political parties and are now seeking a safe exit.” The comment has sparked wide discussion and criticism on social media.
Rizwana Hasan said, “Like with other political parties, the government also maintains a good working relationship with the new political groups. Whether Nahid Islam spoke out of frustration or has any grievance—only he can clarify that. Once he does, the government can respond. Before that, there is no scope for an official statement.”
She further added, “It’s Nahid Islam who must respond to his own comments, not me. The statement was not specific. If it were, perhaps the government would have addressed it. For now, it seems to be his personal perception, not something requiring a government position.”
When asked whether advisers were actually seeking an exit, Rizwana Hasan firmly denied it: “I am not looking for any exit. I have always stayed in this country through many storms and crises and will continue to live here for the rest of my life.”
Regarding whether the government had discussed Nahid Islam’s statement, she said, “Political leaders speak on various issues every day—that’s their democratic right. If we react to every comment, when will we run the ministries? Once something is formally communicated to the government, we will respond. But we cannot react to informal remarks.”
Asked about the possibility of elections in February, the adviser said, “The situation in the country is fully stable. Not only the interim government but all political parties have started preparations for elections in February. We believe there’s no question mark left about that.”
On whether there might be a smaller, separate election-time government before the polls, she said, “This interim government itself will oversee the election. That remains the government’s position.”
Speaking about reform and justice, Rizwana Hasan said both are ongoing processes. “Justice is proceeding as expected, and everyone can see that. Since one tribunal was under heavy pressure, we have expanded to another. We are prioritizing justice and ensuring that due process is followed so that fairness is guaranteed,” she added.
