Sheikh Hasina Will Not Let the Government Function Peacefully, Warns Information Advisor

Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman, the Prime Minister’s Advisor on Information and Broadcasting, has expressed concern that as long as former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina remains alive, attempts to destabilize the government may continue. He further suggested that the ongoing protests by garment workers could potentially be exploited to incite unrest in the country.

He made these remarks on Tuesday (November 3) during a briefing at the Secretariat regarding the progress of various government initiatives.

Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman stated that he does not believe Sheikh Hasina will allow the government to function in peace as long as she is alive. However, he noted that even if acts of sabotage are attempted, they will not pave the way for her return to the country in December.

Addressing the ongoing garment workers' protests, the Information Advisor explained that workers are facing a difficult situation due to inflation, rising fuel prices, and an increased cost of living. Taking their challenges into account, the government has formed a wage commission ahead of the scheduled timeline.

He noted that garment workers' wages are typically reviewed every five years—with previous reviews taking place in 2006, 2010, 2013, 2018, and 2023. Despite this, the government has taken the initiative to establish a new commission in the interest of the workers.

Regarding the violence surrounding the protests, Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman asserted that such actions are inconsistent with the conduct of genuine garment workers. Citing the Home Minister, he mentioned that, according to intelligence reports, there are allegations that these incidents are being fueled from across the border.

On the role of the Awami League, he stated that the government does not believe the party is currently capable of carrying out significant political activities. However, he expressed concern that the party, which possesses substantial financial resources, might use those funds to orchestrate acts of sabotage in various locations. He added that he is not certain whether these incidents have any specific connection to the month of December.

Explaining the government’s approach to managing the protests, the Information Advisor stated that the administration does not wish to suppress demonstrations through the use of force, as was done in the past. He emphasized that the young people participating in these protests are also citizens of the country. Therefore, alongside taking action based on intelligence, efforts are underway to minimize the suffering and losses experienced by the general public.

Regarding Sheikh Hasina’s return to the country, he stated that the government wishes for her to return. The government’s stance remains the same, whether she chooses to return voluntarily or if steps are taken to bring her back. However, he declined to disclose any advance decisions concerning the lifting of passport-related restrictions or the issuance of a travel pass.

On the subject of the use of force by the police, Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman emphasized that any measures taken must be in accordance with the law and proportionate to the situation. The government is moving away from the previous practice of using lethal weapons to control protests, focusing instead on ensuring minimal harm.

The Prime Minister’s Information Advisor also expressed hope that the current situation would return to normal within a short period.