Interim govt committed to swift reforms, won’t overstay: Fisheries adviser

The interim government is committed to completing necessary reforms without delay, Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhtar said today (17 November). 

"We have some responsibilities, and we must honour that by ensuring the groundwork for a stable, elected government. Our aim is not to overstay but to facilitate meaningful reforms for a better Bangladesh," she said while speaking at the opening ceremony of an inter-school science fair in Brahmanbaria.

The day-long event was jointly organised by the Bangladesh Freedom Foundation and development organisation ARD.

Regarding the pace of reforms, the adviser clarified, "The reforms will take only as much time as necessary. If that duration is perceived as a delay, it is subjective. Our intention is to conclude our work and transfer power to an elected government promptly. With December approaching, we are awaiting reform commission reports that will guide the next steps."

She also noted that the interim government aims to prevent the country from regressing into past issues of lawlessness, tyranny, and corruption. 

"We cannot completely eliminate these challenges, but we can address them to a significant extent. Ultimately, the goal is to pave the way for a democratically elected government that reflects the people's aspirations," she added.

The event was presided over by ARD Chief Adviser Siddiqur Rahman Rizvi and attended by Brahmanbaria Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Didarul Alam, Superintendent of Police Mohammad Jabedur Rahman, and AIUB Professor Taufiqul Islam, among others.

Following the inauguration, Farida Akhtar toured the fair, which featured 30 stalls set up by science clubs from secondary schools across Brahmanbaria Sadar upazila. Students showcased their innovative projects, highlighting their creativity and technical skills.