Officials Force Out Governor’s Adviser Amid Tensions

Chaos erupted at Bangladesh Bank on Wednesday as senior officials forcibly removed Governor Dr. Ahsan H. Mansur’s adviser, Ahsan Ullah, amid reports of a new appointment process underway.

According to witnesses, the disruption began shortly after news emerged that a new adviser was being considered. Dr. Mansur himself left the bank premises in a brief press statement at around midday, signalling the start of an unexpected and tense episode inside the central bank.

Within minutes of the governor’s departure, leaders of the Bangladesh Bank Officers’ Council reportedly instigated a commotion inside the bank. In the ensuing unrest, they reportedly created a “mob” situation that led to the immediate expulsion of Ahsan Ullah from the premises.

Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as Ullah attempted to leave in his vehicle. One individual reportedly approached him aggressively, prompting colleagues to intervene and restrain the person. Video footage and accounts from staff indicate that the aggressor displayed threatening behaviour, raising a finger at Ullah in a gesture of intimidation before being held back.

Ahsan Ullah, a former Executive Director of Bangladesh Bank, had been appointed as the governor’s adviser in January last year under a one-year contract. His role was primarily to assist the governor in implementing the bank’s ongoing reform initiatives and policy measures aimed at modernising operations and improving institutional governance.

The incident has sparked widespread concern over workplace discipline and governance within the central bank. Analysts note that while internal disagreements are not uncommon in high-level financial institutions, the overtly confrontational nature of Wednesday’s events is highly unusual and could undermine confidence in the bank’s administrative stability.

Key Details of Ahsan Ullah’s Appointment and Role

As of now, the process of appointing a new adviser is reportedly ongoing, though officials have yet to confirm the replacement. The incident highlights the challenges facing Bangladesh Bank as it navigates leadership transitions and institutional reforms in a politically sensitive and high-pressure environment.

Observers suggest that maintaining decorum and following proper administrative protocols will be critical to restoring order and preventing similar incidents in the future.