‘Deep state offered interim govt to stay in power until 2029’

Former interim government adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain has revealed that the “deep state” had offered the interim government an opportunity to remain in power until 2029.

He, however, said the government rejected the proposal.

Asif Mahmud was addressing a discussion organised at the National Citizen Party’s central office at Banglamotor in Dhaka on Thursday, marking Independence Day.

“When we were in government, at the beginning, various powerful institutions—often referred to as the ‘deep state’—offered us that we (the interim government) should complete Sheikh Hasina’s term until 2029. They said that if we did, they would support us,” said Asif, also the NCP spokesperson.

“They (the deep state) had certain conditions, like being facilitated in some positions, and they had even prepared a full roadmap.”

Asif said strategies were devised on how the government could remain in power. “…But we did not agree to it. We have always prioritised democracy, and because the last government was committed to it, the election was held.”

He added, “We were also committed and stepped down ourselves in advance to ensure the election would not be controversial.”