Dhaka, Oct 28 (V7N)- Discussions are intensifying over the neutrality of the interim government during the upcoming election period, as major political parties — including the BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, and NCP — raise objections against several advisors and officials, alleging bias and partisan influence.

The BNP, which has long demanded the resignation of two student advisors from the start of the government’s tenure, has recently softened its stance on them. However, the party has now turned its attention to Fawzul Kabir Khan, advisor to key ministries such as Road Transport and Bridges, Railways, and Energy and Mineral Resources.
BNP has also called for the removal of Khoda Baksh, special assistant to the Chief Advisor, and Sheikh Abdur Rashid, the Cabinet Secretary, accusing them of favoring Jamaat in administrative appointments and police transfers.

BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury warned that attempts to influence promotions and postings within the government could undermine electoral neutrality.
“Dr. Yunus wants a neutral election — and BNP agrees with him,” he said.

Meanwhile, Jamaat-e-Islami has raised similar concerns. The party’s objection list includes Finance Advisor Salehuddin Ahmed, Planning Advisor Wahiduddin Mahmud, and Legal Advisor Asif Nazrul, alleging that they are disrupting the administrative balance.
Jamaat Assistant Secretary General Hamidur Rahman Azad accused certain factions of “creating chaos within the administration,” while also rejecting allegations that his party had occupied two ministries. “If Jamaat has occupied two, who has taken the rest?” he asked.

The National Citizen Party (NCP) has joined the debate, adding Industries Advisor Adilur Rahman Khan and Attorney General Md. Asaduzzaman to their list of concerns.
NCP Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain stated, “There are several advisors in this government who are working for BNP-Jamaat. If that’s the case, the entire advisory council must be restructured.”

According to analysts, the advisory council was initially formed based on inputs from political parties, making disagreements inevitable ahead of the polls.
Political analyst Sabbir Ahmed said that while some allegations may be exaggerated, the government must take corrective measures to ensure public trust.
“It is crucial to remove anyone with clear political bias before the election,” he said. “The interim government must operate in the spirit of a caretaker government to ensure free and fair elections.”

END/SMA/AJ