Dhaka, June 22 -- Planning Advisor Professor Dr Wahiduddin Mahmud, who was the immediate past education advisor, has said he personally consulted BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir while seeking candidates for vice-chancellor (VC) appointments during his tenure.

"I told him: 'Put aside party considerations, and as a friend, suggest some honest people from your network who could be appointed in education and administration sectors,'" Dr Mahmud said, recounting a conversation with his long-time friend and former university roommate.

In response, Mirza Fakhrul reportedly admitted the limitations within his party. "He told me, 'None of us have had the opportunity to rise in the last 15 years. So how would I even know who is e...