Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to the Principal Adviser, has stated that the February elections will be held under the current government and that no one has the power to stop them. He added that nationwide election preparations have already begun, with political parties starting candidate selection.
“Those who are still making misleading statements about the election and trying to prevent it are accomplices of the fallen authoritarian government,” he said.
He made the remarks during an interaction with journalists at the Circuit House auditorium in Netrokona on Friday (7 November) morning.
Shafiqul Alam also commented on media practices, saying, “Abroad, people invited to talk shows are credible, truthful, and enjoy public acceptance. In our country, it is the opposite. Those spreading blatant lies are invited because their presence heats up the show and boosts TV channel ratings. By forcing such people on TV, false information is being presented to the public. Lies about the Milestone incident, unverified stories about Saint Martin’s, and misinformation regarding advisers’ citizenship, ministries, and the armed forces have all been disseminated. This needs to stop.”
He further stated, “Our government has implemented many important initiatives. The Reform Commission’s work has progressed significantly, with clear documentation of these reforms. No decision has been made regarding a referendum; that will be determined by political parties.”
Responding to a journalist’s question, he said, “Currently, there is no mob violence in the country. While it existed in the past, including during our tenure, it is now fully under control. Those raising concerns about mob violence or fearing it show weakness and support authoritarianism.”
Shafiqul Alam also addressed false claims circulating online, saying, “One person claimed that Ali Riaz fled after spending Tk 83 crore in nine months. I do not know where this figure came from. Today, many people tell blatant lies just to gain popularity.”
The interaction was attended by District Commissioner Abdullah Al Mahmud Zaman, Superintendent of Police Mirza Sayem Mahmud, and Additional District Commissioner (General) Rafiquzzaman.