Adviser Asif Mahmud expresses concerns over propaganda by foreign powers

Panchagarh, 25 Dec- Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan, Adviser to the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development, and Cooperatives has expressed concerns over a wave of propaganda against Bangladesh by foreign powers who have failed to accept the fall of the fascist regime in the country.

He said that these foreign powers, unable to accept the recent political changes, have spread misinformation about Bangladesh.

He made these remarks on Wednesday afternoon at an event held at the Atoyari Model Pilot High School field in Atoyari upazila, Panchagarh.

The event was organised to provide winter clothing to the cold-stricken and provide financial aid to the families of martyrs from the anti-discrimination student movement.

Asif, also Adviser to the Ministry of Youth and Sports, said that one of the main agendas of the current government is to undertake comprehensive reforms. He criticized the previous fascist government for destroying national institutions, ranging from financial systems to social organizations.

"We are determined to reform all these institutions to restore their strength and functionality," he added.

In response to a question from the media, Asif Mahmud reiterated his personal stance on the urgency of holding local government elections.

He said that without elected representatives, it is challenging to provide citizens with effective services, as government officers often fail to deliver services properly. Citizens face harassment, delays, and inadequate services.

"With political consensus and government support, we hope to hold local elections swiftly," he added.

Sarjis Alam, one of the key coordinators of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, raised concerns about the persistence of corruption at the district and upazila levels, particularly in land offices, police stations, and among elected representatives, where bribery is often demanded for services.

He warned that if citizens experience such issues, they should report it with evidence, and the authorities will be urged to take appropriate action.

The event was presided over by Shafiul Majlubin Rahman, Upazila Nirbahi Officer of Atoyari, and was attended by various local leaders, including Atoyari Upazila BNP Convener A. Z. M. Bajlur Rahman, and the Amir of Atoyari Upazila Jamaat-e-Islami, Yunus Ali Khan.