Asif Mahmud, Advisor to the Interim Government for the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, today confirmed his intention to contest the upcoming general election. He also disclosed that the timing of his resignation from the advisory council rests on a high-level government decision.
Asif Mahmud, also known as Sajeeb Bhuiyan, formally applied to become a voter in the Dhaka-10 parliamentary constituency on Sunday afternoon, visiting the Dhanmondi Thana Election Officer’s office.
Speaking to reporters afterward, he stated, “Since I will contest the election from Dhaka, that much is confirmed. I am transferring my vote here so that it is not wasted. I want to ensure I can cast my vote in the upcoming election.”
While he confirmed his bid, Asif Mahmud noted that the final constituency decision is pending, but it will be in Dhaka. Regarding his political position, he currently plans to contest as an independent candidate. “So far, the plan is to run as an independent. We will see what happens later,” he said.
Resignation Timeline
The Advisor addressed the question of when he would resign from his government role to join the public as a candidate.
“I am certainly confirming that I will contest the election. When I will resign, as you know, many things depend on the government’s high-level decision. After discussion, I will inform you about the matter very soon,” Asif Mahmud clarified, indicating a collective decision is pending. He also mentioned that he plans to take up residence in the Dhanmondi area after stepping down.
When questioned about speculation that the Dhaka-10 seat was being kept vacant by the BNP for him, Asif Mahmud strongly denied any link or discussion. “I have not had any discussions with anyone. Whether or not a political party keeps a seat vacant is not my concern. I will make my decision individually and unilaterally,” he asserted.
Update on Government Agenda
Regarding the progress of the Interim Government, Asif Mahmud reiterated the three main objectives: Reform, Justice, and Democratic Transformation.
“You can see that all three tasks are progressing equally. Regarding justice, we expect significant progress this month,” he said. He added that the reform activities are ongoing and nearing completion.
On the election timeline, he maintained the government’s commitment. “The government has very clearly stated and reiterated its plan to hold the election in February. The government is preparing all stakeholders for a free and fair election and is seeking everyone’s cooperation.”
When asked about the ongoing political discord surrounding the implementation of the July Charter and the referendum, Asif Mahmud stated that no final decision has been made yet. “The government has given time for political parties to hold discussions. A final decision will be taken after receiving feedback from them,” he concluded.
