Despite Resigning, Two Advisers Accused of Abusing Power by Refusing to Vacate Official Residences

Staff Correspondent

Two student representatives, Asif Mahmud Sajeeb Bhuiyan and Mahfuz Alam, who resigned from the interim government’s advisory council for staying in government housing more than a week after resigning citing security reasons, have been accused of abuse of power.

Asif Mahmud Sajeeb Bhuiyan told the media on Thursday morning, December 18, that they are still in the government house on high-level orders from the government.

He said that after resigning, there is a maximum grace period of two months to stay in government housing and there are no legal obstacles to this.

However, the issue has raised questions in the administration and political arena. According to critics, enjoying government benefits even after the resignation has taken effect is morally questionable and amounts to an abuse of power.

No specific information has been received from the Ministry of Housing and Public Works on when they will vacate their government residence.

Earlier, a report published in a national daily said that they had not yet left the official residence despite resigning a week ago. However, on December 10, they went to the state guest house in Jamuna and submitted their resignation to Chief Advisor Dr. Yunus, and it took effect as soon as the schedule was announced. The next day, they formally bid farewell at the advisory council meeting.

Asif Mahmud Sajeeb Bhuiyan has been the advisor to the Ministry of Local Government and Youth and Sports since the formation of the interim government on August 8, 2024. Mahfuz Alam first took charge as the special assistant to the chief advisor, and later took charge as the information advisor. The total tenure was 15 months and 13 months respectively.

Their role in the violent protests against the Awami League government is notable. The controversy over their stay in government residences after their resignation has renewed discussions about the limits of their role and privileges. Critics say the need to quickly vacate government residences is necessary in the interests of transparency and ethics.