NCP Spokesperson Asif Mahmud reveals a proposed "roadmap" to sideline major political parties through judicial delays.
DHAKA – In a revelation that has sent ripples through the political landscape, Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuiyan, a former adviser to the interim government, disclosed on Thursday that "powerful institutional forces"—often referred to as the Deep State—offered a deal to keep the interim administration in power until 2029.
Speaking at a discussion organized by the National Citizen Party (NCP) in the capital’s Banglamotor area, Mahmud claimed that these entities proposed the government complete the remainder of the ousted regime's term.
The "Judicial Strategy" to Sideline Rivals
According to Mahmud, the proposal came with a detailed roadmap designed to maintain the status quo by exploiting the legal vulnerabilities of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).
"They suggested that because BNP leaders have existing convictions, they would be unable to contest elections. The plan was to use the judiciary to keep these cases 'lengthy'—stretching out court dates—to ensure they remained disqualified," Mahmud stated.
He specifically noted that even Tarique Rahman’s legal status was part of this calculated negotiation, intended to ensure his exclusion from any potential electoral process.
Rejecting the "Status Quo"
Mahmud emphasized that the interim government’s refusal to accept these terms was rooted in a commitment to democratic restoration. He argued that the administration chose to step down and facilitate elections rather than enter into a compromise with non-elected power brokers.
"We never wavered from our commitment to democracy. To ensure the election remained beyond question, we even took the step of resigning from our positions," he told the audience during the seminar titled "From Blood-Soaked Independence to Reform and Referendum."
A Warning to the Current Administration
The NCP spokesperson did not hold back in his critique of the current BNP-led government. He pointed out the irony of individuals who held key roles during the interim period now serving as ministers, suggesting this crossover has compromised the "level playing field."
Mahmud concluded with a stern warning to the ruling party, urging them not to violate the "July Mandate"—the core principles of the student-led uprising.
Key Allegation: Deep State offered a 5-year extension to the interim government.
The Condition: Facilitating certain institutional interests and neutralizing political opposition.
The Outcome: The interim government rejected the deal to prioritize a transition to elected rule.
The event featured several prominent NCP leaders, including Sarwar Tushar and Tarikul Islam, who echoed the call for maintaining the integrity of the reforms won during the July uprising.
➤ Read More
https://thereporter24.com/news/bangladesh-deep-state-offered-interim-govt-tenure-until-2029-asif-mahmud
No comments: