Journalist Tasneem Khalil has criticised the interim government for what he described as its disproportionate focus on managing public perception, saying its press wing appears to be more active and efficient than many of its core administrative functions.
In an interview with The Post’s YouTube channel, Khalil, Editor-in-Chief of Netra News, said that despite serious questions over the effectiveness of key ministries—particularly the home ministry—the government’s public relations efforts have been notably well-coordinated. He added that even Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus seems to be observing this with interest.
Khalil also slammed the interim government for what he termed as inaction regarding enforced disappearances. “The government believes it has fulfilled its responsibility simply by forming a Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances,” he said, suggesting that no meaningful steps have been taken beyond that.
Speaking on the role of key figures, Khalil described Shafiqul Alam as possibly the most effective press secretary in the country’s history. “A press secretary’s primary role is to push the government’s agenda and shape public opinion,” he said, adding that in the UK, such figures are often referred to as “spin masters.”
He suggested that Shafiqul has been appointed for precisely that reason and appears to be performing the role successfully.
While he acknowledged the effectiveness of the press secretary, Khalil implied that the government’s emphasis on press relations over governance raises concerns about its priorities.
Khalil also dismissed the July Charter as unnecessary, calling it “useless.” “I do not subscribe to the idea of the July Charter,” he said, questioning the relevance and urgency of the document in the current political landscape.
LND/SAE
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