People can now criticise 'without fear', says Foreign Advisor Touhid

He sees open criticism as a key achievement of interim government

Foreign Advisor Touhid Hossain has acknowledged the criticisms levelled against the interim government but asserts that the ability to speak freely remains a significant achievement.

Speaking at the 27th anniversary and Iftar event of the Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) in Dhaka on Wednesday, he highlighted this as a significant change.

Addressing diplomats from different countries, Touhid said: “This government faces criticism on many issues. I won’t claim we have succeeded in everything, but since this is a gathering of journalists, I want to say one thing.

“Could you criticise the government in power a year or eight months ago the way you can today? If nothing else, this government has at least ensured that anyone can criticise freely, without fear.”

Touhid said Bangladesh is going through a crucial phase in its national life, and the interim government is working on state reforms in line with public aspirations.

“The interim government may not fulfil all the people's expectations, but it can create a roadmap towards a truly equitable and democratic society,” he said.

“Some reforms will take place before the election, while others will continue afterward. The government is working to hold elections as soon as possible and transfer power to the elected administration.”

The DCAB event saw participation from politicians, diplomats, and journalists.

DCAB President AKM Moinuddin presided over the event, with General Secretary Arifuzzaman Mamun moderating.

BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury and Foreign Secretary Jashim Uddin also addressed the gathering.