Discontent over DC appointments sparks chaos at Bangladesh secretariat
Gazi Anowar
Unrest erupted at the Bangladesh Secretariat on Tuesday following dissatisfaction among civil service officers over the appointment of new Deputy Commissioners (DCs). The dispute escalated into physical altercations between mid-level officials within the Ministry of Public Administration—an unprecedented incident in the ministry’s history, according to insiders.
Over the past two days, the ministry issued two separate lists appointing new DCs in 59 districts. However, several deputy secretaries, particularly from the 24th BCS batch, expressed outrage after being excluded, claiming political bias in the selection process.
Eyewitnesses reported that at around 1:30 PM on Tuesday, disgruntled officers stormed into the office of Joint Secretary KM Ali Azam. The office, located on the second floor, oversees the posting and transfer of field administration officers, including DCs and UNOs. A verbal confrontation ensued, followed by shoving among officers. A few officials, including a female officer, attempted to calm the situation.
Security forces—including police and army personnel—were later deployed on the floor. Officers also reportedly seized and later returned a mobile phone from an intelligence official who tried to record the altercation.
The tension continued through the afternoon, with protesting officers later gathering outside the Cabinet Secretary’s office on the fourth floor. They emerged after a meeting around 6:15 PM, stating that their demands had been conveyed to the Chief Adviser, Dr. Muhammad Yunus.
“We have requested the cancellation of the appointment order,” said one officer. “The Cabinet Secretary assured us that our grievances will be presented to Dr. Yunus.”
The officials allege that several appointed DCs have questionable backgrounds, including significant investments in the stock market, connections to the ruling Awami League and its student wing, and previous involvement in harassment incidents. “Many of us were sidelined during the Awami League government under the excuse of being neutral or opposition-leaning,” said another official. “Now, even under a neutral government, we’re facing the same injustice.”
Sources also claim that the viral circulation of a Facebook profile photo showing newly appointed Rajshahi DC Mahbubur Rahman with a former Prime Minister further inflamed the situation. Additionally, concerns were raised over a mysterious figure—described as bearded and wearing a turban—frequently seen consulting with KM Ali Azam behind closed doors. Protesters suspect this individual played a role in influencing the appointments.
Due to the unrest, the Cabinet Division ordered the 25 newly appointed DCs to remain in Dhaka until further notice, despite an initial plan for them to travel to their respective districts on Wednesday. A planned courtesy meeting between the DCs and the Chief Adviser was also canceled.
On Monday, the government had issued appointment notices for 25 districts, followed by 34 more on Tuesday—totaling 59 DC appointments. None of the appointees have assumed office yet.
DCs serve as the top administrative authority at the district level, overseeing general administration, law and order, and land management, and play a critical role in implementing government initiatives. Their appointment, transfer, and withdrawal are managed by the Ministry of Public Administration, while the Cabinet Division supervises field administration.
Though a day-long briefing for the 25 DCs was conducted on Tuesday as per protocol, uncertainty remains about potential revisions to the appointment list.
