Staff Reporter :
The interim government has reaffirmed its commitment to carrying out critical reforms in state machinery, but political parties are intensifying their demands for a clear roadmap to elections.
Political parties are arguing that an elected government is best suited to address the nation’s challenges, while the interim government stated that the July-August revolution has entrusted them with some responsibilities.
However, the interim government spearheaded by Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, several times hinted that the election roadmap would come following the reform of the six commissions, which would submit its reports in January.
Against this backdrop, Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain while speaking at an event in Belabo, Narsigndi, on Saturday said, “We will fulfill the responsibilities entrusted to us, hand over power to the politicians, and step aside. They will run the country.”
He added, “Our primary responsibility is to ensure that the reform process remains uninterrupted, so the foundation for future governance is stable. We will fulfill our duties and then hand over power to the politicians, who will run the country.”
The event was attended by officials from various departments, freedom fighters, public representatives, politicians, journalists, and members of civil society.
Pointing about their taking office following the mass upsurge, the foreign adviser stated, “As you know, this is an interim government. We have been entrusted with responsibilities under special circumstances, and we have agreed to take on this role.”
“Those who have achieved this victory have certain demands. They want some reforms, and we have been given the responsibility to carry out these reforms,” he continued.
About the interim government’s responsibility, he said, “I don’t believe everything can be achieved in one day. It takes time for everything. Our role is to ensure that the process of fundamental reforms remains uninterrupted.”
Urging people from all levels of society, Touhid Hossain said, “I have a request for all of you. Ensure that 10, 15, or 20 years from now, your children do not have to take to the streets and sacrifice their lives again. That responsibility rests with you, and I urge you to fulfill it.”
Speaking about relations with India, the Foreign Adviser said, “We want good relations with all countries on the basis of equality and mutual respect. This is what we are working towards.”
About the improvement of the bilateral relations with India, he said, “Many question our relationship with India, especially since there was an uneasy situation with India after the government changed.”
He further said, “We have conveyed a clear message to India. We want good relations based on mutual interests. Both sides have their interests, and we will discuss matters related to those interests.”
The foreign affairs adviser expressed optimism that the unease in relations with India would soon dissipate.
The Dhaka -Delhi relations began to deteriorate after the fall of Sheikh Hasina government on August 5 following her refuge in India as she fled to save lives from mass upsurge.
Several incidents including minority issue, attacks on Bangladesh Mission in India, propaganda from a section of Indian media have compounded the relations.
However, the glimmer of hope began to shine through the secretary level Foreign Office Consultation attended by Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri in Dhaka.
He stated that the Modi government wanted to work closely with the interim government for the mutual benefits of the two nations, focusing on people centric relationship.
