Adviser Ahsan Ullah forced out under officials’ ‘mob’ pressure

A sudden escalation of tension unfolded at Bangladesh Bank on Wednesday, as senior officials and staff clashed amid uncertainty over leadership changes. The unrest followed reports that a process to appoint a new governor was underway, prompting incumbent governor Dr Ahsan H Mansur to leave the premises shortly after delivering a brief press statement.

According to witnesses, Dr Mansur addressed journalists briefly around midday before departing the central bank headquarters. His abrupt exit appeared to trigger discontent among sections of the institution’s officers and staff, particularly leaders of the Bangladesh Bank Officers’ Council, who began protesting inside the building.

The situation quickly deteriorated into a highly charged atmosphere. Protesters reportedly gathered in large numbers, creating what observers described as a “mob-like” environment within the premises. Amid the commotion, they confronted the governor’s adviser, Ahsan Ullah, and compelled him to leave the building.

Eyewitness accounts suggest that as Ahsan Ullah attempted to exit and entered his vehicle, tensions nearly turned physical. One individual was seen advancing aggressively towards him before being restrained by others present. The same individual reportedly gestured in a threatening manner, raising a finger and issuing verbal warnings, underscoring the emotionally charged climate within the institution.

Ahsan Ullah, a former Executive Director of Bangladesh Bank, had been appointed as an adviser to the governor in January of the previous year on a one-year contractual basis. His role was primarily to assist in implementing reform initiatives within the central bank, particularly in areas relating to governance, regulatory oversight, and institutional transparency.

Analysts note that such incidents within a central bank are highly unusual and could carry broader implications for financial stability. Central banks typically function as pillars of economic confidence, responsible for monetary policy, currency stability, and oversight of the banking sector. Any visible internal discord risks undermining public trust and investor confidence.

The unfolding developments also raise questions about the continuity of ongoing reform programmes and the administrative stability of the institution. While no official statement has yet clarified the government’s position regarding leadership changes, observers suggest that swift and transparent communication will be essential to restore confidence.

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As the situation develops, stakeholders across the financial sector will be closely monitoring the response of both the central bank and the government. Ensuring institutional discipline and safeguarding the credibility of Bangladesh’s monetary authority remain critical priorities in the aftermath of this incident.