Dhaka/Islamabad — Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Syed Ahmed Maroof, has taken leave and departed Dhaka following the emergence of unverified videos and social media reports alleging his involvement in a personal scandal.
According to reports from Dhaka-based daily Prothom Alo, Maroof left the Bangladeshi capital on May 11, reportedly traveling to Islamabad via Dubai. While no official reason for his departure has been provided, the move comes in the wake of widely circulated online content purportedly linking him to a personal controversy.
Officials in both Pakistan and Bangladesh have confirmed that the envoy is officially on leave, although Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not issued a formal statement addressing the matter. In the interim, Muhammad Asif, Pakistan’s Deputy High Commissioner in Dhaka, has assumed charge as Acting High Commissioner.
A senior official at Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the Pakistan High Commission formally notified them of Maroof’s leave on the day of his departure. However, the communication did not specify the duration or nature of the leave.
Unofficial reports suggest that Maroof may remain on leave for approximately two weeks, though this has not been verified. His sudden exit has sparked considerable speculation across social media platforms, particularly after videos allegedly showing the diplomat in a compromising situation with a Bangladeshi national began circulating online.
The authenticity of the videos has not been confirmed by any credible source, and neither the Pakistan High Commission nor relevant Bangladeshi authorities have commented on the matter publicly. However, the incident has raised concerns over potential diplomatic sensitivities and the implications for bilateral relations.
Syed Ahmed Maroof was appointed as Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh in December 2023, and had been engaged in diplomatic outreach and bilateral engagements in Dhaka since assuming the role.
As of now, there is no indication of formal disciplinary action or investigation. However, observers note that the situation may evolve depending on further developments and verification of the circulated material.
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