‘Liaison committee ineffective, new measures planned to ensure student representation in govt’s decision-making’

Half an hour prior to the interim government's swearing-in on 8 August, it was announced that a special liaison committee from the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement would assist in defining the government's structure and membership.

However, the student movement recently staged protests against the inclusion of two additional members to the advisory council.

When inquired about the liaison committee's role in appointing advisers, Arif Sohel, member secretary of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, told The Business Standard, "The liaison committee is currently ineffective. However, we firmly believe that student representatives should actively participate in the government's decision-making processes. 

"We are committed to realising this goal. While the specific mechanisms are still under discussion, we will work to facilitate their involvement."

At a recent protest programme, Hasnat Abdullah, convener of the organisation, stated, "While students are busy confronting the Awami League's cohorts on the streets, we hear news of new advisers being appointed at Bangabhaban. Students have risen up for the welfare of the state, yet some advisers seem to gain their positions by disregarding students' sacrifices." 

He further said, "Students want a clear answer about who is behind the rehabilitation of Awami League's allies. They [students] have revolted with fresh blood, but this appointment was made without consulting them."

Regarding the activity of liaison committee, its member Ariful Islam Adeeb told The Business Standard, "With the committee coordinator Mahfuz Alam now sworn in as an adviser after being appointed special assistant to the chief adviser, the committee's activities have been halted since 28 August. Consequently, student participation in the government's decision-making process has been directly suspended since that date."

Umama Fatema, coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, told The Business Standard that although the liaison committee's work has stalled, three members — Akram Hussain, Bhuiyan Asaduzzaman, and Mamun Abdullahil — are continuing with policy work. 

Additionally, she said two other members have joined the National Citizens Committee, and one now serves as an adviser.

At a press conference at the National Press Club today, students from the anti-discrimination movement representing private universities called for the formation of a special committee to oversee the appointment at the advisory council of the interim government.