Not worried about parties' remarks, ties remain cordial: Asif Nazrul
"When I speak to political leaders, I feel they are satisfied with our activities," he said
Law Affairs Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul said today (23 October) that the interim government is not concerned about political parties' occasional comments questioning the neutrality of advisers, noting such remarks may stem from "political strategy or genuine concerns."
"We don't take this seriously. Our relationship with them is very cordial. When I speak to political leaders, I feel they are satisfied with our activities — at least BNP and Jamaat appear so," he told reporters at the Foreign Service Academy when asked about recent remarks from political leaders.
Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam also briefed reporters, sharing outcomes of the Council of Advisers' meeting.
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Nazrul said the three key political stakeholders — BNP, Jamaat and NCP (former student leaders) — had approved each adviser who joined the Council. "That I know," he added.
He noted that political leaders occasionally make such comments, which may reflect "strategy or genuine concerns." "You would be surprised to see how cordial our relations actually are," he said.
"Sometimes we wonder what they truly mean… sometimes they make demands like this. We are not worried," the Law Adviser added.
He also stressed that the advisers are committed to completing their responsibilities and leaving office as soon as possible. "That is the situation now."
BNP senior leader Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury on Wednesday urged the interim government to fully embody the role and principles of a caretaker administration by removing controversial advisers, aiming to ensure neutrality and facilitate a peaceful transition through a credible national election.
"My request is that the interim government should, as soon as possible, move into full caretaker mode and act according to the spirit and features of a caretaker administration. By doing that, and holding a proper election, we can ensure a smooth and peaceful transition," he said.
Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami also raised objections to several advisers to Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus during a meeting with him on Wednesday evening at the state guesthouse Jamuna.
"We did not raise concerns about all advisers — only a few. We said some people around you (the Chief Adviser) mislead you. We have confidence in you, but we believe some individuals close to you are working in favour of a particular party. You should remain cautious about them," Jamaat's Nayeb-e-Ameer Dr Syed Abdullah Muhammad Taher told reporters after the meeting.
National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam likewise urged the Chief Adviser to ensure the government operates neutrally ahead of the national elections and to take necessary action regarding any advisers accused of bias or corruption.
