Planning Adviser Wahiduddin Mahmud has dismissed the speculation surrounding the resignation of Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus from the interim government, stating that no one is stepping down and all advisers are continuing in their roles. Speaking to reporters on Saturday, May 24, following an unscheduled meeting of the Advisory Council at the NEC conference room in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Mahmud confirmed that Dr. Yunus had never expressed an intention to resign, and that each adviser was committed to fulfilling their assigned responsibilities.

Mahmud also said that the council discussed various obstacles faced while executing their duties, particularly in advancing reform efforts across ministries. When asked about any discussion regarding the election timeline, he refrained from commenting directly but mentioned that identifying challenges in this area was also part of their deliberations.

The backdrop of this discussion follows remarks made by Army Chief General Waqar-uz-Zaman during an “Officers’ Address” on May 21, where he highlighted the need for elections by December and the formation of an elected government. The following day, during an internal discussion after a routine meeting, reports surfaced suggesting that the Chief Adviser was considering resignation due to frustration and dissatisfaction with the current situation.

This news sparked significant political debate, with parties like the BNP reportedly discussing the matter internally. Sources indicate, however, that no major political group is in favor of Dr. Yunus stepping down from his role.