The former fascist regime has left every institution in Bangladesh in ruins, remarked Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan, adviser to the Ministries of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives, and Youth and Sports, during a public event in Panchagarh on Wednesday (25 December).
Speaking at a midday gathering held on 25 December at the grounds of Atwari Model Pilot High School, organised by the upazila administration, Asif Mahmud emphasised the interim government's ongoing efforts to address the nation’s structural problems.
The event included the distribution of financial assistance to families of martyrs from July and August, as well as winter clothing to the underprivileged.
“The reform process requires the opinions, cooperation, and support of the people,” said Asif Mahmud.
He further elaborated that the Reform Commission, established earlier this year, is nearing the end of its three-month tenure and will soon submit its recommendations to the government.
“The government will proceed with the reform agenda following consultations with stakeholders. I urge everyone to contribute your views and support to make the most of this rare opportunity for national progress,” he added.
During the same event, Sarjis Alam, general secretary of the July Martyrs’ Memorial Foundation and a key coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, expressed hope for a new era in Bangladesh.
“With the new government and impending elections, we must ensure we vote for the most capable and deserving candidates, not those offering hundreds or thousands of Taka in exchange for votes,” he said.
Sarjis Alam emphasised that the public must not squander their one chance in five years to elect worthy leaders, warning against the dire consequences of choosing unfit representatives for short-term gain.
He concluded, “If you sell your vote for a few hundred Taka, you are complicit in the oppression that follows for the next five years.”
