Nahid Islam, who resigned from the post of information and broadcasting adviser, on Tuesday said he stepped down to play a greater active role on the streets in realising the aspirations of the July uprising, rather than remaining within the government.
Speaking at a press conference at the State Guest House Jamuna hours after his resignation, Nahid justified his decision, citing the necessity of being directly involved with people, reports UNB.
“I have submitted my resignation. Over the past six months, I have tried to contribute from my position. In addition to my responsibilities in two ministries, I had to take on several additional duties. We made efforts and some initiatives within the ministries may yield results for the people,” said Nahid.
He continued, “Six months is a very short time, yet I did my best. The people will evaluate my work and its outcomes. As of today, I no longer hold any government position.”
The former student leader elaborated on his departure, saying, “I felt it was necessary to be outside the government. The aspirations of the popular uprising have not yet been fulfilled. The government was formed with promises of justice and reform, and two student advisers remain in their positions, believing they still have responsibilities to fulfill within the administration. They will serve people while remaining in the government, and if necessary, will step down when they see fit.”
Expressing his political ambitions, Nahid stated, “I intend to join the new political force and party that is taking shape. My goal is to reconnect with people, unite them once again, and work towards fulfilling our pledge of a popular uprising. That is why I have resigned.”
When questioned about any shortcomings during his tenure, the leader of the Anti-discrimination Student Movement acknowledged certain limitations. “We encountered bureaucratic hurdles and worked to overcome them.”
He also highlighted structural challenges within the administration, saying, “The bureaucracy we inherited was problematic. The police lacked confidence, and we faced constraints in arresting and prosecuting the perpetrators of the July massacre. However, we made efforts. I was part of a public administration committee for two weeks, where we decided to take action against deputy commissioners from 2018 who were involved in corruption.”
Bd-pratidin English/Fariha Nowshin Chinika
