Advisor Nahid Islam to Resign Amid Political Shift
Nahid Islam, an advisor to the Ministry of ICT, Telecom, and Information Broadcasting, is reportedly set to resign from his position in the interim government that emerged from the July uprising. Although speculation about his resignation surfaced last month, he had not publicly confirmed it. However, sources indicate that he has now formally stepped down, effective from Sunday.
According to unverified reports, a new political party, led by students and the masses, is on the verge of being launched. Nahid Islam is said to be leaving the government ahead of the party’s formal announcement. However, it remains unclear whether he has officially submitted his resignation letter.
In an interview with a private television channel on Saturday (February 15), Nahid Islam stated, “We are considering various possibilities. I am personally reflecting on my role. If I feel that working on the ground with the people is more important than remaining in government, I will leave my position and join the party’s formation process.”
He further added, “There are discussions about forming a new political party under student leadership. It would not be possible to be part of that party while remaining in government. If I decide to join it, I will resign from my advisory role.”
Regarding the future of the ruling Awami League, the Information and Broadcasting Advisor commented that instead of an ordinance, a judicial process could lead to its prohibition, possibly before the upcoming elections. He also noted that the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has clarified its stance on the elections, which has somewhat eased tensions with the government.
Reflecting on the movement that led to the current interim administration, Nahid Islam remarked, “From the anti-quota protests to the declaration of government overthrow, the mass uprising resulted in the fall of the Awami League government. Over six months have passed since then. In September, students formed the National Citizens' Committee to build consensus on national reconstruction. This committee is now evolving into a new political party, and its official announcement is expected this month.”
He further indicated that he, along with other student representatives serving as advisors, might soon announce their resignations to join the party’s activities. Emphasizing the distinction between forming a political party and engaging in electoral politics, he concluded, “A final decision will be made public in a few days. We are well aware that forming a political movement and contesting elections are two different things. With that understanding, we are preparing to take our next steps.”
