Ishraque Says He Voluntarily Resigned, Clarifies Prime Minister’s Role
Former State Minister for Liberation War Affairs Ishraque Hossain has clarified his position on his resignation, saying he personally expressed his desire to step down to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman so he could focus on an anti-drug campaign in his constituency.
Speaking at a press conference at the National Press Club in Dhaka on October 19, Ishraque rejected reports that he had initially refused to resign. He said he wanted to continue working against drug trafficking in Dhaka-6 and nearby areas without the controversy surrounding him affecting the government or his party.
The controversy began after videos circulated on social media showing Ishraque carrying a firearm during an anti-drug operation in the capital’s Gandaria area on October 17. Footage also appeared to show members of his entourage carrying weapons and using force against people suspected of involvement in drug-related activities.
The incident sparked public criticism and raised questions about the role of elected officials in law enforcement operations.
Ishraque defended the campaign, claiming it was conducted in coordination with local law enforcement agencies. He said six people had been detained and handed over to police, along with evidence seized during the operation.
Addressing reports that the prime minister had instructed him to resign, Ishraque said the official account might naturally suggest that he had been asked to step down on the prime minister’s orders rather than having volunteered.
He maintained that he had discussed his decision with Tarique Rahman and received approval to focus on constituency-level work and the anti-drug campaign.
Ishraque also defended his decision to carry a licensed firearm during the operation, saying he had done so for personal protection. However, the incident prompted the Dhaka Metropolitan Police to launch an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the operation and the display of firearms.
His resignation was subsequently accepted by President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, and the Cabinet Division issued an official notification confirming his departure from the government.
Despite leaving his ministerial position, Ishraque has said he intends to continue campaigning against drug-related activities as a BNP activist.
Reporting by Borderless for The Borderless Journal. Filed under Uncategorized · 22 Oct 2026, 16:00.
