Allegations against Mohammad Azaz politically motivated, says Dhaka North

The Dhaka North City Corporation issued a statement yesterday (17 May) denouncing recent allegations linking Administrator Mohammad Azaz to the banned organisation Hizb ut-Tahrir, describing them as "entirely baseless and politically motivated."

"These claims appear to be part of a broader pattern of targeting individuals who have been vocal critics of previous regimes' human rights violations and environmental degradation," said the statement. 

Azaz, who was appointed Dhaka North Administrator in February 2025, is widely recognised for his work as a public intellectual, environmental activist, and writer over the past 16 years. His advocacy against authoritarian governance, wetland encroachment, and water-related injustices has drawn both public support and resistance from vested interests, said the statement.

The allegations trace back to a 2015 incident when individuals allegedly affiliated with Hizb ut-Tahrir were arrested at a property owned by Azaz. 

According to the statement, Azaz neither resided in the building nor had any involvement in the incident. 

"He was implicated solely due to his status as the landlord. Subsequent investigations and legal proceedings fully acquitted him, reaffirming his innocence," the statement reads.

Azaz has consistently spoken out against the politicisation of religion and the instrumental use of Islam in politics. His collaborations with diverse communities, including Hindu fishing communities, and his leadership in progressive movements "underscore his commitment to inclusive and justice-oriented values," the statement added.

Since taking office at Dhaka North, Azaz has introduced several transparency and accountability initiatives. These include publishing detailed information on Dhaka North projects online, implementing anti-corruption measures, resisting illegal tender practices, and launching environmental sustainability

programmes such as installing air quality monitors and reclaiming public spaces.

"These actions have disrupted entrenched interests, leading to orchestrated smear campaigns aimed at undermining his credibility," the statement said, adding that reviving previously debunked narratives serves to distract from the substantial reforms being pursued under his leadership.