Dhaka, Oct. 13 -- As Bangladesh edges closer to its national parliamentary elections, a single phrase - "safe exit" - has set off a storm in the country's already turbulent political climate.

What began as an offhand remark by a dissident politician has spiraled into a nationwide debate, revealing the undercurrents of mistrust, shifting loyalties, and anxiety gripping the interim administration.

The controversy first erupted when Nahid Islam, convener of the National Citizens' Party (NCP) and a former adviser to the interim government, alleged that several current advisers were maintaining contacts with political parties and contemplating their own "safe exits."

His claim - made in a television interview - spread like wildfire, sparkin...