New york: Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam today criticized Transparency International Bangladesh’s (TIB) recent statement regarding the Bangladesh delegation to the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), stating that it “unfortunately relies on inaccurate information.”
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Shafiqul Alam addressed these concerns in a post on his verified Facebook account. He emphasized that the delegation is not only smaller compared to those during the Hasina era but is also more focused and results-driven. He expressed disappointment that TIB, a respected civil society organization, based its public statement on unverified social media posts instead of verified facts.
Alam highlighted the delegation’s mission to represent Bangladesh’s interests at the UNGA, a key diplomatic event where global decisions are shaped. Over the past five days, the delegation has engaged in over a dozen high-level meetings, including bilateral discussions with more than six heads of state or government.
He refuted TIB’s claim that the delegation exceeds 100 members, clarifying that the actual number is 62, slightly higher than last year’s 57. He also noted that last year’s count did not include six eminent politicians who traveled at the Chief Adviser’s invitation. Approximately a third of this year’s delegation consists of security personnel, crucial for the safety of senior officials, including Professor Muhammad Yunus, amid credible threats from Awami League supporters.
Despite the enhanced security measures, the current team faces challenges with officers working extended shifts to ensure protection. Alam acknowledged potential questions about the delegation’s size but stressed the exceptional significance of this year’s UNGA for Bangladesh. He cited deliberate destabilization efforts and misinformation campaigns against the Interim Government and the July uprising as factors necessitating strong international engagement.
The delegation also includes representatives for the upcoming Rohingya Conference on September 30, underscoring Bangladesh’s leadership on pressing regional humanitarian and security issues. Several advisers have traveled separately to engage with global counterparts on mutual concerns.
Alam further mentioned that leaders from Bangladesh’s popular political parties were invited to participate, with officials assigned to support them. This inclusive approach, he stated, conveys a firm commitment to a peaceful, democratic transition for Bangladesh.