Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to the Chief Adviser, has said his family members are deeply concerned about his personal security ahead of the national election, though he maintains that he himself remains unafraid.
In a post from his verified Facebook account on Saturday, December 13, Shafiqul wrote that his wife, children and siblings have urged him to be more cautious as the election approaches. “They are afraid. But honestly, I am not,” he said.
Marking 16 months in office, the press secretary said he was not initially in the mental state to write publicly.
However, he said the recent shooting of Inqilab Mancha spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi prompted him to share his thoughts.
Shafiqul said Hadi has remained in his thoughts and prayers since the attack, adding that during his travels across the country he sees “countless Hadi-like youths” representing a new generation shaping Bangladesh’s political future.
He said this generation has already removed an autocratic regime, but its mission remains unfinished. “As long as millions of such youths refuse to retreat, there is no reason for fear or despair,” he noted.
Expressing confidence in Bangladesh’s future, Shafiqul said challenges remain and powerful domestic and foreign forces may attempt to create obstacles. “But this generation does not fear. They will reach their destination,” he wrote.
He also recalled several individuals who lost their lives during protests in July and August, describing them as part of a long struggle against authoritarian rule. “Despite these losses, millions more continue the fight. They are not afraid. Neither am I,” he added.
MU/MHK/NMA