Health Adviser Nurjahan Begum has urged medical professionals to draw a firm line between their political affiliations and their duties, warning that hospitals must never become extensions of party activity.

Addressing physicians, nurses and staff at Chattogram Medical College Hospital on Friday afternoon, she said: “I request you all never to turn your workspaces into party offices. This is not your party space. This is not your party place.”

She also issued a pointed reminder against absenteeism, noting that some staff routinely leave after signing in for the day. “Those who do this will face consequences,” she cautioned.

Nurjahan said health workers stationed in remote areas for long stretches would soon have the opportunity to move to central postings, pledging to end discrimination in transfers and promotions.

She also called for expanded training programmes, noting strong domestic and international demand for skilled caregivers.