Family Fears for My Safety, But I Remain Resolute

The Press Secretary to the Chief Adviser, Shafiqul Alam, has acknowledged that his family is deeply concerned about his personal safety amid the country’s tense political climate, particularly in the run-up to elections. However, he has made it clear that despite their fears, he himself remains unafraid and steadfast in his resolve.

Mr Alam shared these reflections in a post published on his verified Facebook account on Saturday, marking sixteen months since he assumed his current responsibilities. He wrote candidly about the emotional weight of recent events, noting that he had not initially felt mentally prepared to write. Yet the brutality of a recent shooting incident compelled him to speak out, as the victim, Osman Hadi, had weighed heavily on his thoughts and prayers since the attack.

In his post, Mr Alam revealed that his wife, children, and siblings have repeatedly urged him to exercise greater caution, particularly ahead of the elections. He admitted that they are genuinely frightened for his safety. “They are deeply worried,” he wrote, adding that their concern is understandable given the prevailing atmosphere. “But truthfully, I am not afraid,” he asserted.

Reflecting on his travels across Bangladesh, Mr Alam described encountering countless young people whom he symbolically referred to as “Hadi”—figures representing resilience, courage, and resistance. He criticised what he termed the brutal legacy of authoritarian politics, questioning how many more lives could be claimed by those responsible for violence and repression. According to him, the direction of the nation’s politics is now being shaped by a new generation—one that has already succeeded in dismantling a dictatorship, though its mission, he stressed, is far from complete.

Mr Alam expressed strong faith in this generation, stating that as long as millions of such young people refuse to abandon their stance, there is no reason for fear or despair. He recalled the emotional letter written by a young martyr, Anas, to his mother before his death, describing it as a powerful testament to the commitment of today’s youth. These young men and women, he said, have pledged to their families that they will not rest until the country is set on the right path.

Looking ahead, Mr Alam voiced confidence that Bangladesh will not lose its way in the decades to come. He acknowledged that obstacles and shocks lie ahead, and that powerful domestic and foreign interests may attempt to derail progress. Nevertheless, he insisted that this generation is unafraid and determined to reach its destination.

He concluded by remembering those lost in recent months—Abu Sayeed, Mugdho, Wasim, Anas, Ahnaf, Faiyaz, Dipta Dey, Naima, Ria Ghosh, and Abrar Faiyaz—while reaffirming his belief that countless others, whom he called “Hadi and Nabila,” continue to stand fearless. “They are not afraid,” he wrote. “And neither am I.”