Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has said she is not looking for any “safe exit” and intends to live the rest of her life in Bangladesh.

“Advisers are looking for a safe exit — Nahid Islam must prove that statement. I am not seeking any exit. I have always lived in this country, and I will spend the rest of my life here,” she told reporters at the Secretariat on Wednesday in response to a question.

Rizwana Hasan said, “Like with all political parties, the government also maintains good relations with the newly formed party. Why Nahid Islam, the chief of that party, made such remarks about advisers seeking a safe exit — whether out of grievance or for any other reason — that’s their party’s matter. The government cannot comment on any unofficial statement made by them.”

The adviser said, “Leaders of various political parties make all kinds of statements about different issues concerning the government — that is their right, and this is how democracy functions. If we react to every comment and worry about every remark, how will we run our ministries?”

She added, “When any issue is officially communicated to us, the government will respond accordingly — it will work on it, engage with it, and inform everyone. But it is not possible for the government to comment on informal remarks. He has to explain his statement himself. It is not for me to substantiate or refute it. If the statement had been specific, perhaps the government would have responded. It seems to be their perception or belief, expressed as their opinion. The government has no position to take on it.”

Speaking about the upcoming election, Rizwana Hasan said, “The election will be held under this interim government. The country’s situation is stable, and the polls will take place in February. The judicial process is ongoing — we only want justice to be done properly.”

Regarding political discussions, she said, “It would be wrong to say there has been no consensus on various proposals. Talks have been held with political parties. The question now is how that consensus will be implemented. Many political parties are expressing their views — that’s their right. But if we focus on every comment, we won’t be able to run the ministries.”