Corruption in the country’s road transport sector remains a pressing concern, with its dynamics changing but not diminishing, Information and Broadcasting Adviser Nahid Islam said on Saturday. “There is a political influence intertwined with the chaos on the roads. So, resolving the issue will not be easy,” he said while speaking at a national dialogue held at the Bangladesh Press Institute on Saturday. Nahid emphasised the need for institutional management and structural reforms to restore order in the sector. The adviser said that political parties must play a proactive role in curbing corruption, as many of the issues involve their workers and leaders. He also criticised previous administrations for their failure to deliver public-focused development. “Development under previous governments was not centred on the people. As a result, the public did not benefit. Future policies must prioritise inclusive development that addresses the needs of the general population.” '2024 victory completes our independence': Nahid Officials from organisations involved in the transport sector attended the dialogue. Speaking on the occasion, Chairman of the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) Mohammed Yasin underscored the need for modernisation and announced decisive steps to improve the system. “No old buses will be allowed to operate. A timeline has been provided, and necessary measures must be taken within this period.” Yasin also stressed the importance of a permanent plan to free roads and footpaths from encroachment, noting that temporary solutions like evictions are inadequate. “The solution should be well-planned and sustainable.” Rampant Corruption A recent study conducted by Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) revealed the extent of corruption within the private bus transport sector. Its findings indicate that private buses and minibuses pay nearly Tk 1,059.37 crore annually in extortion money. The largest share of this amount, more than Tk 900 crore, is reportedly paid as bribes to BRTA officials for vehicle registration, certification, and renewal processes. Other recipients of the extortion money include political affiliates, highway police personnel, city corporations, and municipality officials. The study, titled “Integrity in Private Bus Transport Business,” surveyed 701 bus workers, 168 bus owners, and 696 passengers, alongside observing 51 bus terminals and interviewing 37 key informants such as researchers, journalists, and city corporation officials. Adviser Nahid seeks Saudi Arabia’s investment in IT Sector Conducted between May 2023 and February 2024, the study covered private bus operations in 32 districts, painting a grim picture of the sector’s integrity. The findings highlighted how syndicates and bus owner-worker associations, backed by ruling party affiliates, have effectively held the industry hostage. In some instances, even government authorities appear powerless against these groups. Call for Reforms The dialogue underscored the urgency of comprehensive reforms to ensure safety, efficiency, and public satisfaction in the transport sector. Institutional management, political commitment, and structural changes were identified as critical components to addressing the persistent issues. The Road Safety Foundation organised the event.

BNP on Thursday slammed Information Adviser Nahid Islam for accusing political parties of trying to fail the interim government, warning that such inappropriate statements can create a rift in national unity.  “I think he (adviser) should not have made such a remark. He didn't say the right thing. It may create a rift in national unity,” said BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi while speaking at a press conference at the party’s Nayapaltan central office. India doesn’t want democracy in neighbouring countries: Rizvi He said it is the main responsibility of the interim government to hold a free, fair, and inclusive election within a short time, considering the desires and emotions of the people. “But if any contradictory or questionable statements come from their (government's) side, it’ll harm national unity,” the BNP leader observed. He said the government can benefit from the criticism made by political parties and professional bodies. “Criticism is an essential element for strengthening democracy. You can’t deny this element. The adviser’s remark helps create a division in unity.” Rizvi also said it is significant that democratic political parties have set an example of unity amid the both local and international conspiracies. “You (the government) must take this into consideration.” India 'tainted with blood of Muslims and others’, alleges Rizvi He said the political parties have been urging the government to arrange the elections after completing the reforms within a reasonable time. “Is the election different from other elements of democracy that you are reacting so strongly to political parties’ demand for it? In fact, the election is the most important element for democratic practice and advancement,” the BNP mentioned. He said the government should not ignore the political parties' demand to arrange the next national election after completing the necessary reforms. The BNP leader said the people of the country will give their mandate to form an elected government through a credible election. Rizvi pledges to honour victims of July-August Uprising Earlier, on Wednesday, Information and Broadcasting Adviser Nahid Islam reportedly said political parties are prioritising the election over reforms. During a meeting at the Secretariat with a delegation from British Global Partners Governance (GPG), the adviser also mentioned that political parties are attempting to make the interim government fail.

People of Bangladesh are calling for a new approach to journalism after the revolution, said Nahid Islam, Adviser for Information and Broadcasting, on Wednesday. “To this end, the government has initiated efforts to revamp the media landscape. The media will serve as a cornerstone of democracy in Bangladesh, always prioritizing the interests of the country and its citizens,” he said. He made the remarks at the welfare grant cheque handover ceremony for the fiscal year 2024-2025 (1st phase), organized by the Bangladesh Journalists Welfare Trust at the Press Institute of Bangladesh (PIB) auditorium. Adviser Nahid favours political consensus for decision on President The adviser said that the Bangladesh Journalists Welfare Trust is committed to supporting the families of martyred journalists and those injured during the anti-discrimination movement. “The contributions of journalists who were martyred or injured in this struggle will be remembered and honored by the government,” Adviser Nahid added. Highlighting the government’s responsibility, the adviser mentioned that the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting considers the families of the deceased journalists as integral to its mission. From this perspective, the ministry stands by the journalists. He noted that the Trust is actively working for journalists' welfare. As part of this effort, 350 welfare grant cheques were handed out in the first phase of the 2024-2025 fiscal year. The adviser assured that additional grants would be provided to more journalists in the future. Criticizing the fascist regime, he pointed out that fascism had permeated every institution in Bangladesh, including the media, which was subjected to efforts to be turned into loyal supporters of the government. Those media outlets that resisted faced various forms of repression. ‘Interim Govt doesn’t acknowledge Sheikh Mujib as Father of the Nation’: Adviser Nahid Stressing that journalists should remain nonpartisan, he emphasized that they must write and speak for the country and its people. While the public expects the media to hold the government accountable, he lamented that it has struggled to fulfill this role over the past 16 years. He remarked that those journalists who aligned with fascism do not represent true journalism, as they have exploited the media for corrupt purposes. Instead, he said, it is the journalists who faced persecution during the previous government who truly represent the media. Regarding the protection of journalists from harassment, the adviser announced that the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has established a committee to monitor harassment cases against journalists, which has already begun its work. Journalists can report incidents of harassment to this committee, with the ministry pledging to support them.

A decision regarding President Mohammed Shahabuddin can be reached through political discussion and national unity, rather than following legal or constitutional means, said Nahid Islam, Adviser on Posts, Telecommunications, and Information Technology, on Wednesday. The adviser also called for everyone to remain calm and be aware about this issue. He said this in response to a question while talking to reporters at the Secretariat on Wednesday. He further stated, "We have received the message from the people, and the interim government is consulting all stakeholders. A decision may be forthcoming after these discussions." Nation doesn’t expect a constitutional or political crisis: BNP "Whether the president stays in office is not a legal or constitutional matter at this time; it is a political decision," he stated. "In making the decision regarding the president, we are prioritising stability, security, and discipline within the state," he added. "There is no need for demonstrations in front of Bangabhaban or elsewhere. We have heard the people's message, and a decision must be reached through discussion," he emphasized. Nahid also mentioned that there are conspiracies both at home and abroad, urging student protesters to remain vigilant and calm in this context. No decision yet over President issue: Interim govt In response to another question, the adviser stated, "The students have issued an ultimatum. We are currently engaged in discussions on our end, though there is no specific timeline for this process. We will continue our efforts and once we reach a logical decision, we will inform everyone.” Nahid stressed that the decision must prioritize the state and its citizens.

Renowned actor and freedom fighter Masud Parvez Sohel Rana, in a Facebook post on Wednesday, strongly criticised the interim government’s Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Adviser Nahid Islam’s statement on cancellation of eight national days. On his verified Facebook account, Sohel Rana wrote, “Brother Nahid, it is inappropriate for you to talk about the country and leaders of a time when you were not even born. Don't make us call you ignorant.” His post came after the comment of Nahid to the media regarding the interim government’s official announcement of the cancellation of eight national days, including March 7, which commemorates Sheikh Mujirbur Rahman's historic speech, and August 15, marking the assassination of Bangabandhu and his family. BSA to host three-day Lalon Festival starting tomorrow Stating that the ousted Awami League regime imposed several days on the citizens, adviser Nahid Islam said Bangladesh’s interim government did not recognise Sheikh Mujibur Rahman as the sole father of the nation. He made these comments in response to a question while talking to reporters at the Secretariat on Wednesday. As soon as the news spread, social media was flooded with reactions coming from people representing all walks of life, including actor-politician Sohel Rana. Actor Sohel Rana launches Bangladesh Justice Party In the comment box of that public post, famous stage actress and director Nuna Afroz commented, “How can 71, liberation war, Bangabandhu be erased by the people who were not born on the soil of this country! Who are they really?” In another post soon after that, Sohel Rana further wrote, “It was necessary to leave the scene after the March 7 speech. He wrote, 'YouTubers and Television (channels) are interviewing you. They should have left the place right after your statement about the 7th March speech.” Dhallywood’s one of the most popular ‘Golden Era’ actors and a famed politician throughout his life, Sohel Rana has recently launched his new political unit titled ‘Bangladesh Justice Party’ (‘Bangladesh Insaf Party’ in Bangla).   

The interim government does not recognize Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman as the Father of the Nation, said Nahid Islam, Adviser on Posts, Telecommunications, and Information Technology, on Wednesday. "Awami League made Bangabandhu controversial. As a party, AL was in power through fascist tactics—snatching people's voting rights, abductions, murders, and even genocide. So, who called him the Father of the Nation, and which day they declared as National Day, none of that will continue in the new Bangladesh. We want to rebuild Bangladesh,” he said. When directly asked whether the interim government acknowledges Bangabandhu as the Father of the Nation, Nahid responded, “Of course not.” He emphasized that many figures contributed to the nation’s history: “Our history didn’t begin in 1952. We have anti-British struggles, 1947, 1971, 1990, and now 2024. We have many founding fathers, and our freedom came through their collective struggles.” Journalists directly linked with fascists and supporters of genocide to be tried: Nahid Islam The adviser also noted that the national days being canceled were "imposed" by the Awami League, describing this as "fascist behavior." He added, “The government finds these days unimportant, so they are being canceled.” Earlier in the day, the interim government officially announced the cancellation of eight national days, including March 7, which commemorates Bangabandhu's historic speech, and August 15, marking his assassination.  

Information and Broadcasting Adviser Nahid Islam said on Monday professionalism of journalists is the most important pillar of media freedom, stressing that media workers financial issues need to be addressed to ensure their dignity. “We want to look forward and see how we can take journalism towards professionalism so that our youths and talented people feel interested about this profession,” he said while addressing a discussion at the Jatiya Press Club. Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam and Press Institute Bangladesh (PIB) Director General Faruk Wasif, among others, spoke at the discussion titled ‘Mass Media’s Reforms: Why and How?’ which was organised by Media Support Network. Journalist and Convener, Media Support Network Jimi Amir presented the keynote paper with a number of proposals. The Adviser said the editors and the owners ‘kind of oppose’ it when the issue of wage board for the media comes up. He said there are multi-level stakeholders in the media and a common thing is that some media houses do not pay salaries properly. “It is very common, I understand. This should be resolved to maintain professionalism and ensure their dignity,” said the Adviser. He said the organisations that represent the journalists should work in the interest of working journalists. Nahid said they need to reach a consensus taking all stakeholders onboard to resolve the issues in the media industry. He also questioned the role of media during the students movement and said they did not see the role that media played during 90s upsurge. The Adviser said there could be a big case study on the role of media that it played during the recent movement with a bias-free discussion. He said there was no resistance from journalists during the July revolution and therefore their role was questionable. “Much information on the movement was not aired on electronic media. It is a matter of discussion.” Nahid said the media reform commission will be announced after holding meetings with all stakeholders. Jimi Amir said this profession of dignity has been underestimated to some extent by the British-era term wage board. “Can it be called Board of Salary and Benefits instead of Wage Board?” she said, adding that it can be made for all - magazines, TV, online, radio. Presenting her keynote speech, she also laid emphasis on creating a uniform policy for all types of news media. “Now is the time for us to have an open discussion. If the media cannot think and act independently then democracy cannot stand up. Economic stability will collapse. Above all, the country's sovereignty will be threatened,” Jimi Amir said. Earlier, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus told top editors of the country that he wants the media to function with full freedom, and write without any hesitation if the interim government makes any mistake. Quoting the Chief Adviser, his Press Secretary Alam said Prof Yunus reiterated that he believes in media freedom and the interim government wants to see a vibrant media landscape. Tags: Professionalism, Journalism, Adviser Nahid, Dr Yunus

Nahid Islam, Adviser on Posts, Telecommunications, and Information Technology, has been recognized in Time Magazine’s prestigious “TIME100 Next 2024” list. The announcement, made on the magazine’s website on Wednesday, recognizes 100 emerging leaders across fields like entertainment, politics, activism, and business who are shaping the future. At just 26, Nahid has already made an indelible mark on Bangladesh’s political landscape. A sociology graduate, he became a leading figure in a nationwide student movement that spearheaded the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Nahid's rise to prominence followed a harrowing personal experience. He endured torture at the hands of the country’s notorious intelligence services, which only fueled his resolve. Following his ordeal, Nahid took center stage, delivering the students' bold demand: Hasina must resign. “No one thought she could be toppled,” he remarked, reflecting on the dramatic turn of events. After weeks of relentless protests, Hasina fled the country on August 5, marking a historic victory for the student-led movement. But Nahid’s work is far from over. Now part of the interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, he faces the formidable task of repairing a deeply eroded democratic system, one damaged by Hasina’s 15-year authoritarian rule. Nahid is one of two Gen Z advisers in the administration, tasked with connecting the government to the aspirations of a younger generation eager for change. “We should understand the pulse of the new generation,” Nahid stressed. Calling for an end to the political violence that has long destabilized Bangladesh, he added, “We need to move on.”