Bangladesh's sovereignty, democratic institutions under threat, says Advisor Mahfuj

The advisor calls for unity among patriotic forces and apologises for past “divisive” remarks

Information Advisor Mahfuj Alam has warned that Bangladesh’s sovereignty and democratic institutions are facing grave threats and urged unity among patriotic forces to defend the country’s future.

“The nation comes before individual beliefs, pride or emotions. Unity among those who love this country is inevitable,” Mahfuj wrote in a Facebook post on Thursday afternoon.

Amid mounting political pressure, he also issued a public apology for past comments, saying, “I sincerely regret any remarks or word choices that were divisive.”

His statement comes at a politically charged moment, with the BNP demanding his resignation and Jamaat-e-Islami expressing dissatisfaction over his recent remarks.

Mahfuj said if he remains in office even for a single day longer, he wishes to work “with sensitivity and respect toward all forces involved in the July Uprising".

He also distanced himself from “divisive slogans and labels of the previous regime,” which, in his words, put the larger population at risk.

“We hope that the future state will be democratic and inclusive,” he added.

Mahfuj warned that the country’s adversaries were “united and aggressive”, while those who stood together during the July Uprising now face “a long test".

“This test demands unity and patience. It must be passed,” he concluded.