Asif Mahmud: Interim govt has clear mandate for reforms

The interim government has a clear mandate to implement reforms, Local Government Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain has said, emphasizing that over 2,000 lives were not sacrificed, nor were more than 20,000 injured, solely for an election.

Speaking as chief guest at a winter clothing distribution event and discussion held in Baliadangi upazila of Thakurgaon on Wednesday morning, Asif, who is also the youth and sports adviser, underlined the significance of reforms in the current political context.

“You all know that the sole demand of the July uprising was the fall of the autocratic Sheikh Hasina regime and the abolition of the fascist system. By 'fascist system,' we mean the destruction of almost all institutions, including the economy, under authoritarian rule. 

“Given this scenario, implementing reforms is crucial to fulfilling the single demand. The sacrifices of over 2,000 martyrs and the injuries of more than 20,000 were not for mere elections or voting.” 

Families of the martyrs and the injured were also calling for reforms, he said, adding that the government's clear mandate was to carry out those reforms.

Asif mentioned the formation of commissions to develop reform proposals and recommendations, saying once those were finalized, the government would initiate necessary reforms to transform the state system, and only then would it move toward elections.

Talking about the historical neglect of northern districts, the adviser said the interim government was focused on development projects in these areas. "Baliadangi upazila will be brought up to national standards," he announced, declaring a grant of Tk50 lakh for establishing an upazila library.

Regarding the treatment of those injured in the uprising in the district, he said efforts were underway to ensure their treatment promptly.