Asif Mahmud likely to contest poll, will resign before schedule

LGRD, Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuiyan has said he will resign from the interim government’s council of advisers before the announcement of the schedule for the 13th parliamentary elections.

He also indicated that he may run in the upcoming election.

The adviser made the remarks in response to questions from journalists during a media briefing at his office in the Secretariat on Thursday, August 14.

Asif Mahmud stated that if political activities or elections are to be held in the future, no members of the advisory council, or any so-called "election-time government", should remain in office. 

However, he clarified that the government has not yet taken a final decision on the matter.

When asked about comments he made during a recent television talk show regarding an "election-time government," he explained: "My remarks about stepping down before the election schedule were not made in isolation. I was referring to those who intend to re-enter politics – not just myself or Mahfuz Bhai, who are more publicly recognised, but others with prior political affiliations as well. Many individuals with past political identities may still be active and could return to politics or contest elections. I believe everyone should resign beforehand to ensure a fair and impartial election process."

Pressed on whether he himself would run in the next election, he replied, "I have not yet made a final decision on that."

Asked specifically whether he would stand from his home constituency, the adviser reiterated, "I have not decided whether I will contest the election at all."

When questioned about what he meant by an "election-time government," he clarified: "By 'election-time,' I mean the period following the announcement of the election schedule. And by 'election-time government,' I do not mean a separate administration—this current government is impartial. What I mean is that anyone intending to engage in politics, not just student leaders or advisers, should step down during the election period to prevent any perception of bias."

He added: "We must ensure the election is beyond reproach. Our chief adviser has repeatedly stated that we aim to deliver the fairest election in history—and we share that goal. As members of this government, we bear a historical responsibility to uphold that standard."

Asif Mahmud expanded on his stance, saying: "It’s not just about the advisory council. I believe anyone in a state position who has previously been involved in politics, or who plans to re-enter politics or contest elections in the future, should not remain in government during the electoral process."

Addressing concerns that resignations would leave key posts vacant, requiring new appointments, he said: "That is a matter for the government to decide. My comments on the talk show were personal reflections. No final decision has been taken by the government on this issue. We will discuss it internally before reaching a conclusion."

He acknowledged, however, that his remarks reflected a likely course of action: "Yes, that’s broadly what I expect. But the final decision must come from the highest level of government."

Finally, when asked about speculation that he might join the National Citizens' Party (NCP), a newly formed party representing student leaders, he responded: "I’ve said this before people should not assume I will join the NCP. I will consider it, but nothing is decided.