Role of Advisor, Masud Kamal Questions Legitimacy of Asif Mahmud’s Presence in Law Enforcement Decisions
Role of Advisor Asif Mahmud in the Gopalganj police control room has come under public scrutiny after veteran journalist and political analyst Masud Kamal questioned his involvement. Speaking on his YouTube channel ‘Kotha’ on Wednesday (July 16), Kamal said there was no issue with home ministry officials or law enforcement monitoring the situation. However, he asked why the advisor to the Ministry of Local Government, Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan, was issuing directives related to law and order, a field outside his jurisdiction or expertise.
Masud Kamal emphasized that Asif Mahmud is the youngest member of the advisory panel and lacks formal training or prior experience in handling law enforcement issues. “Does this fall under his ministry? No. So why is he there?” Kamal questioned. He criticized Mahmud for posting about his involvement on social media, implying it could lead to political tensions or public confusion about his role.
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He further pointed out that such actions give rise to speculation about political revenge. “What message does this send to people?” he asked. Kamal reflected on the trend where particular districts receive undue political favor during the tenure of certain parties — such as Bogura during the BNP era, Gopalganj during Hasina’s rule, and now Chattogram during Yunus’s influence.
He added that such favoritism later results in retaliation when opposing parties come to power. “Now perhaps it’s Gopalganj’s turn,” Kamal speculated, expressing doubt about the district’s near future.
Referring to the July 16 NCP rally, Kamal questioned why the party chose Gopalganj—home turf of Sheikh Hasina—despite having limited presence there. “Why would they expect to be welcomed with flowers after constantly criticizing Bangabandhu?” he asked, suggesting the clash could have been anticipated and prevented with better security measures.
Role of Advisor Asif Mahmud continues to raise valid public questions, especially in the context of his authority, experience, and intent during the Gopalganj unrest. As Masud Kamal concluded, people deserve clear answers when political boundaries blur into law enforcement operations.
