Interim government adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuiyan has confirmed his intention to contest in the upcoming national elections from Dhaka, adding that his resignation from advisory council will depend on a high-level government decision.

Following a visit to Dhanmondi Thana Election Office on Green Road, the adviser, who currently oversees the Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Ministry and Youth and Sports Ministry, submitted his voter registration application on Sunday afternoon to become a voter in Dhaka-10 parliamentary constituency.

“As I will be contesting from Dhaka, it is only logical that my vote be here,” Asif Mahmud told while speaking to journalists. “I was a registered voter before, but I could not cast my vote in the last two elections, in 2018 and 2024. This time, I want to make sure I can vote. While the final decision about my constituency is not yet made, it is almost certain that I will run from Dhaka, Insha’Allah.”

When asked whether he plans to join a political party, Asif Mahmud said he intends to contest as an independent candidate for now. “Let’s see how things evolve,” he added.

Dhaka-10 is among the constituencies where the BNP has yet to announce a candidate. Asked if the seat was being kept open for him or if he had held talks with BNP, Asif dismissed the speculation, saying, “I have not had any discussions with any political party. Whether a seat is vacant or not is not my concern. I will make my decision independently.”

Regarding his future after resigning from the government, he said he plans to stay in Dhanmondi. “That’s why I applied to become a voter here—so my vote won’t go to waste,” he explained.

On the timing of his resignation, he said, “I will definitely contest the election. As for when I’ll resign, that depends largely on decisions at the top level of the government. Once discussions are complete, we will inform everyone.”

Asif Mahmud also addressed questions about ongoing political debates surrounding the implementation of the July Charter and the proposed referendum. “No decision has been made yet,” he said. “The government has given political parties time to discuss the matter. A final decision will be made after receiving feedback from them.”

He emphasized that the interim administration has been focused on three key goals—reform, justice, and democratic transition. “All three are progressing simultaneously,” he said. “We expect significant progress on judicial matters within this month, while reform initiatives are nearing completion. Once the processes are finalized and clearly defined, there will be no confusion.”

Reiterating the government’s commitment to hold elections in February, he added, “The government has been clear about its plan to hold a fair and participatory election. It is working to prepare all stakeholders and seeking cooperation from everyone.”

When asked to comment on political parties “trying to take shortcuts,” he replied, “Since I am still part of the government, I prefer not to comment on political issues right now. I’ll speak about them later.”

On the recent allegations of sexual harassment in the Bangladesh women’s cricket team, the youth and sports adviser called the matter “deeply unfortunate.”

He said he had already discussed it with Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), which has formed an inquiry committee. “We want to ensure safety and respect for women in all sectors, including sports,” he said. “If the investigation finds anyone guilty, we will take strict disciplinary action. My office has also contacted the victim, and if she wishes to take legal action, the government will provide full support.”

Asked if the government would conduct its own investigation, he said, “Since this is an internal issue of BCB, we are initially relying on their investigation. Later, we will decide if further action is needed.”