Dhanmondi: Information and Broadcasting Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today stated that despite challenges and unnecessary debates, people are exercising their voting rights with enthusiasm. “People are voting spontaneously today,” she told journalists after casting her vote at Ideal School and College on Central Road in Dhanmondi.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Adviser Rizwana, who is also responsible for the ministries of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, and Water Resources, expressed her happiness upon casting her vote and remarked, ‘Let’s celebrate this election, the government’s endeavor.’ She further noted that everyone is exercising their voting rights in an orderly manner, emphasizing that people have truly been empowered.
Addressing concerns about election propaganda, Syeda Rizwana stated, ‘Until yesterday, I heard what the election will be like? Many people have even sent SMS to know. The people of the country were worried about whether the 13th Jatiya Sangsad (JS) polls will be held or not.’
Responding to a question about her role in the government, she clarified, ‘I was never in power. I was in charge only. Responsibility is a lifelong matter. There is no scope to procrastinate this issue.’ She highlighted her ongoing commitment to environmental issues, noting her previous role as the Chief Executive Officer of Bangladesh Environmental Lawyers Association (BELA) and her intention to return to BELLA in the future.
Syeda Rizwana addressed the longstanding negativity and suspicion in the country, asserting that such negative narratives have been proven inapplicable. She also clarified that the announcement of election results is the jurisdiction of the Election Commission, and once the gazette notification is made and the oath is taken, her role and responsibilities will conclude.
Finally, she emphasized, ‘And we are still in charge. Every day, the state has some work to do. From the moment the oath is taken, we are no longer in charge.’