Controversy Over Upcoming Ambassadorial Appointments in Bangladesh

Bangladesh is preparing to appoint Dr Niaz Ahmed Khan, Vice-Chancellor of Dhaka University, as its next ambassador to Denmark. The government has already requested Copenhagen’s approval (agréé), with formal clearance now pending.

In addition, the interim government reportedly aims to appoint Lamia Morshed, SDG envoy to the Chief Adviser, and international affairs special envoy Lutfe Siddiqui and his sister Husna Siddiqui to ambassadorial roles. These moves, described by some as “unorthodox,” have stirred significant debate in Segunbagicha. While the candidates’ credentials are strong — international qualifications, senior jobs, high pay, and family pedigree — critics question the need for these appointments and the sidelining of career diplomats who meet all formal criteria.

In diplomacy, only around 30% of appointments may go to outsiders. Military, civil service, and politically influenced selections occupy much of this quota. Many senior diplomats claim that the current proposals threaten fairness within the Foreign Ministry and undermine the ideals of equality that sparked previous student-led uprisings.

One senior officer remarked, “Nearly all the proposed ambassadors have long enjoyed privileges. Now they want to take even more.” He posed the question: “Was all the bloodshed merely to enrich already privileged lives?”

Vacancies also exist, or will soon arise, for ambassadorial and high commissioner posts in Singapore, The Hague, Thimphu, Yangon, and Tehran. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirms that discussions have been held at policy level, but no paperwork or agrément has yet begun.

Dr Khan’s appointment process is nearly finalised, pending Copenhagen’s approval, which could take one to three months. Meanwhile, questions surround Lutfe and Husna Siddiqui being considered together. Lutfe is the son of former Police IG A.Y.B.I. Siddiqui, while Husna is a technology executive in Amsterdam, seeking Bangladesh’s diplomatic representation in the Netherlands. Lutfe reportedly prefers Singapore, and Lamia Morshed is eyeing Europe, although no current vacancies exist there. Sources suggest her influence, particularly through Dr Muhammad Yunus, could secure a European posting.