Caretaker advisers face exit rumors

Several advisers in Bangladesh’s caretaker government declined public engagements to focus on completing reforms before their tenure ends. Personal secretaries confirmed that officials recognize their limited time in office and expect potential departures. Major political parties pressed Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus to remove advisers perceived as partisan ahead of elections. The adviser council was formed on August 8, 2024, following the fall of the Awami League government.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir demanded the replacement of officials aligned with the previous administration’s policies. Jamaat-e-Islami estimated 70 to 80 percent of officers across key institutions maintain loyalty to one party. National Citizens’ Party convener Nahid Islam alleged some advisers planned safe exits after establishing political connections. Two student advisers reportedly received resignation requests by mid-September but requested extensions.

Information adviser Mahfuz Alam stated that he was unsure about his departure timeline on September 28. Local government adviser Asif Mahmud told journalists on August 14 that he would resign before the election announcements. Gono Odhikar Parishad questioned whether current advisers could ensure fair elections. Multiple sources indicated that preparations for dignified resignations were underway across various ministries as political pressure mounted.