Bangladesh: 'Deep State' Offered Interim Govt Tenure Until 2029: Asif Mahmud
Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuiyan, a spokesperson for the National Citizen Party (NCP) and former adviser to the interim government, has made a startling revelation regarding the country’s transition of power.
He claimed that the "Deep State"—referring to powerful non-elected institutional forces—had proposed that the interim government remain in power until 2029.
Speaking at a special discussion on Thursday at the NCP’s central office in Banglamotor, Asif Mahmud stated that the offer was made during the early days of the interim administration’s tenure.
The Proposed 'Roadmap'
According to the former adviser, these "powerful institutions" offered full cooperation if the interim government agreed to complete the term originally held by the ousted Sheikh Hasina government, which was slated to end in 2029.
"They even brought a complete roadmap," Asif Mahmud told the gathering. "There were certain conditions, including facilitating them in specific areas."
He further alleged that the proposal included a strategy to keep major political rivals, specifically the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), out of the electoral race. He claimed the "Deep State" suggested using the judiciary to prolong existing legal cases against BNP leaders.
"They suggested that since BNP leaders have existing convictions, they wouldn't be able to contest elections normally. They proposed 'lengthening' those legal processes through the courts—by shifting dates—to ensure they remained disqualified," Mahmud added, specifically mentioning the legal status of Tarique Rahman.
Commitment to Democracy
Despite the pressure and the "alluring" offer of an extended stay in power, Asif Mahmud emphasized that the interim government rejected the proposal in favor of democratic principles.
"We did not agree to that negotiation. We have always prioritized democracy. It was because of our commitment that the elections were held. To ensure the process remained unquestionable, we even resigned from our positions ahead of time," he clarified.
Critique of the Current Political Climate
Asif Mahmud also leveled criticism at the current BNP-led administration. He pointed out that individuals who held key roles during the interim period are now serving as ministers in the BNP government, which he suggested has compromised the "level playing field."
He warned the ruling party against violating the "July Mandate"—the spirit of the student-led mass uprising that toppled the previous regime. "You must not forget the fate of those who previously stood against the public's will," he cautioned.
The event, titled "From Blood-Soaked Independence to Reform and Referendum: Political Duties of Implementation," was organized by the NCP’s Dhaka Metropolitan South Committee. Other speakers included NCP leader Sarwar Tushar and National Youth Shakti Convener Tarikul Islam.
