Nahid Islam, an advisor to Bangladesh's interim government and a prominent student leader, has resigned amid talks of launching a new political entity. On Tuesday afternoon, Islam met with Yunus at his office, where he formally tendered his resignation.
In his letter to Yunus, Islam wrote, 'Given the current backdrop, I must align with the nation's student population to champion their cause. Hence, I feel it is necessary to resign.'
Nahid Islam's decision coincides with discussions among student leaders about initiating a new political organization. Last year, Nahid was appointed as an advisor to the Ministry of Telecommunications and Information Technology within Muhammad Yunus's government.
It is reported that students opposing Sheikh Hasina's government are planning to establish a new political party. By Wednesday, student leaders are anticipated to officially launch their new party.
Will Islam Lead the Party?
According to insights, Nahid Islam, a figure of considerable responsibility in the interim government, is set to spearhead the new party as a convener. He has previously stated unequivocally that if necessary, he will establish a party to contest elections.
The Bangladesh Election Commission announced on Sunday that the interim government has established two timelines for significant reforms within the country. Preparations for general elections are underway for either December or June 2026, contingent on reform outcomes.
'Elections Imminent in Bangladesh'
According to the government news agency BSS, Chief Election Commissioner A.M.M. Nasir Uddin made this comment during a discussion with district administration officials in Cox's Bazar.
Nasir Uddin stated that the interim government has set two deadlines for elections: by December or next June.
The report quotes him as stating, "The current focus of the Election Commission is on creating an accurate voter list. There are 1.6 million deceased voters who need removal from the list."
Yunus Assures BNP
Earlier this month, Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus assured former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia's Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) that elections would be held by December.
Yunus assumed leadership of Bangladesh's interim government on August 8, 2024, occurring three days after the ousting of Sheikh Hasina's Awami League government following an anti-discrimination student movement-led uprising.
It should be noted that under Nahid Islam's leadership following intense nationwide protests, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government was overthrown. Subsequently, on August 5, Sheikh Hasina sought refuge in India following the downfall of her nearly 16-year-old Awami League government due to the student-led revolt.
