BD Interim Government has three Key Priorities: justice, reforms, and elections– Env. Advisor

Dhaka, 6 February:  Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Advisor to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and Water Resources of Bangladesh, emphasized that the interim government is focused on three core priorities: justice, reforms, and elections.

The Advisor said this while speaking as the Chief Guest at the Nordic Day Celebration at Radisson Blu Dhaka today.

Environment Advisor outlined the government’s commitment to addressing past injustices, implementing necessary reforms, and restoring democratic processes. She stressed that justice remains the foremost priority, ensuring accountability for those blinded, injured, or killed under the brutality of the previous regime. The government is determined to uphold their rights.

On reforms, Rizwana Hasan acknowledged the impatience of the people but emphasized that meaningful change requires a systematic approach.  ‘Transformation must follow a structured process to yield just and effective outcomes. If the process is flawed, the results will not be just,’ she said.

Regarding elections, the Advisor reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring democracy and enabling citizens to exercise their voting rights. However, she cautioned that elections alone cannot ensure progress without structural reforms backed by political ownership. ‘The interim government has engaged sectoral experts and initiated dialogue with political parties, who have submitted their written recommendations. Now, broader societal participation is essential to drive this process forward,’ she added.

Reflecting on Bangladesh’s democratic journey, Advisor Rizwana Hasan highlighted the unprecedented role of youth in bringing about the recent political shift. ‘For 53 years, our people have fought for democratic rights. This time, it was the youth-without political motivation or external pressure-who led the change,’ she remarked.

The Advisor acknowledged the challenges ahead, particularly in stabilizing the economy, ensuring energy supplies, and addressing financial sector issues. ‘We inherited an unstable banking system, yet we are managing these difficulties while prioritizing the well-being of our people,’ she noted. Addressing nationwide protests, she stated, ‘In just six months, we have handled around 180 protests across various sectors-with patience and restraint. We did not resort to conventional police tactics, and perhaps one day, our efforts will be recognized.’

The Advisor underscored the urgency of this moment: ‘We cannot afford to fight for democracy every five or ten years. We must get it right-now.’ She acknowledged the pressure to deliver reforms quickly while also ensuring credible elections, given that the country has not had one since 2014.

Mrs. Syeda Rizwana Hasan extended her gratitude to the Nordic countries for their steadfast support. ‘Your assistance has been invaluable-not only to this interim government but also in my previous role in civil society. Before joining the government, I was on the other side, running a non-profit, and I received immense support from all of you,’ she said.

Ambassador of Finland to Bangladesh Kimmo Lähdevirta, Ambassador of Denmark to Bangladesh Christian Brix Møller, Ambassador of Norway to Bangladesh Håkon Arald Gulbrandsen and Ambassador of Sweden to Bangladesh Nicolas Weeks also delivered speech on the occasion. The event was attended by dignitaries, diplomats, and stakeholders committed to strengthening Bangladesh’s democratic and environmental governance. Pressrelese.

Corporatenews24, GNS,Jubair