Farhad Mazhar questions chief advisor's authority to form reform commissions

Farhad Mazhar has called into question the legitimacy of Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus’s authority to establish reform commissions.

Speaking at a discussion titled "What needs to be done for educational and state reform" at Dhaka’s Economic Reporters’ Forum auditorium on Saturday, the poet and theorist highlighted the need to clarify the legitimacy issue before proceeding with the commissions.

Since taking the reins on Aug 8, the interim government has formed six commissions aimed at reforming critical state institutions and agencies.

Mazhar, however, criticised the process. He said, “He [Yunus] has been picking people of his own choice for different commissions.

“Who gave you the right to form a commission? There are already questions about your legitimacy. How can you proceed with forming a commission? First, solve that issue,” Mazhar said.

Despite his critique, Mazhar voiced strong support for the interim government, making it clear that he stands against any return of the Sheikh Hasina regime, which he referred to as ‘fascist.’

“We are willing to support this government. We do not want the return of Hasina’s fascist government under any circumstances. We will resist it at all costs. The only reason you [Yunus] are still in power is because we are resisting.”

He concluded, "If we had not attempted to resist, this weak government would not have lasted this long. Since we believe it is our duty to protect this mass uprising, we are fulfilling that responsibility."