State reforms will prove difficult, even for an elected government, according to adviser Sakhawat

Shipping Adviser Brigadier General (Retd) M Sakhawat Hossain stated on Friday in Khulna that not only the current interim government but also any future elected administration would face significant challenges in addressing the country’s issues, which have been exacerbated by years of destruction and plundering. 

He emphasized that the corruption during the 15-year rule of the Awami League was not just the theft of a sea, but of the entire "Pacific Ocean." Sakhawat made these remarks during the 50th founding anniversary celebration of Govt Sundarban Adarsha College in Khulna.

The adviser also warned that, despite the downfall of the Awami League regime, extortion and acts of terrorism have intensified across the nation. He urged influential figures to step in and halt the ongoing extortions.

Although the adviser did not specify any particular group, it is widely believed that BNP activists, who are likely to come to power in a potential uncontested election, have replaced Awami League affiliates in extortion and terror activities across the country.

Sakhawat pointed out that central BNP leaders have so far failed to control their grassroots members involved in such activities.

He stressed that the achievements of the July-August student-led mass uprising and the sacrifices of over 2,000 martyrs should not be in vain. He called for efforts to rebuild the nation.

Additionally, Sakhawat revealed that soon, the public would learn that law enforcement agencies allied with the Awami League had established secret detention centers not only in cantonments but also in universities, residential hotels, and private residences to suppress dissent.