The Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) has issued a detailed explanation regarding the dissemination of misleading information regarding the participation of a government official in a reunion organized by the Dhaka University Alumni Association UK (DUAAUK) in the United Kingdom. This information was given in a press release issued by the Press Information Department (PID) today (Wednesday, October 29).

In a statement, BIDA expressed deep concern that an expatriate person has recently circulated incorrect and misleading explanations about a government letter (Memorandum No. 03.08.2690.068.25.001.25-503, dated October 19, 2025) on social media. He is probably unable to understand the language and features of government documents.

BIDA said that unfortunately, some media outlets have also disseminated the misleading statement without verification, which could be considered an attempt to tarnish the image of a senior government official.

Bida's explanation confirmed that Chowdhury Ashiq Mahmud bin Harun has been officially approved to participate in the DUAAUK reunion program. Harun has been identified as a former student of Dhaka University and was previously an expatriate in the UK.

The main purpose of this visit was to strengthen ties with expatriate alumni and encourage them to invest in Bangladesh.

BIDA said Ashiq Chowdhury met with expatriate investors during his stay in the UK.

An important aspect of Bida's explanation was the financial aspect of the visit. It clearly stated that the government had no financial responsibility for the visit.

DUAAUK bore all the expenses of the entire trip. The government did not provide any financial assistance or allowance for the trip, BIDA said.

BIDA has clarified an administrative aspect mentioned in the government order. Although the letter mentions payment of salaries and allowances in local currency, this is a regular administrative process for all government officials traveling abroad and does not involve any additional cost to the government.

The government letter allowed a maximum of three days of travel, which included weekends.

During this time, the concerned official was in government service and his accountability remained as per the prevailing rules.

BIDA said the entire visit was conducted in accordance with government rules and procedures and was not a secret or obscure initiative. BIDA urged everyone to refrain from spreading misleading, incomplete or biased information.

BIDA has sought everyone's cooperation in maintaining the transparency and dignity of government processes and urged everyone to contact BIDA directly to avoid confusion on such matters in the future.- Press Release