The government is exploring the possibility of appointing administrators to oversee the operations of the zilla parishads in 61 districts until elected representatives take charge. Sources familiar with the matter revealed that this initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the stability of local government institutions.
Discussions on this proposal took place during a recent high-level meeting held by the officials of the local government and rural development (LGRD) ministry. Following the appointment of administrators to six city corporations, including Dhaka north and south, the government is now shifting its attention towards zilla parishads. However, officials from the LGRD ministry clarified that talks regarding the appointment of administrators to the parishads are still in the early stages.
The issue of maintaining the functionality and continuity of local government operations was extensively deliberated upon, especially in light of the absence of elected representatives in the parishads since the change in government in August 2024. The lack of leadership has resulted in a slowdown of regular development activities, financial approvals, and coordination with field administration across multiple districts.
Authorities emphasized that no final decision has been reached yet, and internal consultations are ongoing to evaluate the legal and administrative implications. The ministry is currently reviewing relevant laws and compiling a list of potential candidates for consideration. Upon completion of the legal review and finalization of the candidate list, an official announcement is expected, pending government approval.
Insiders from the ministry disclosed that the review process involves a thorough examination of the provisions of the Local Government (Zilla Parishad) Act and associated regulations to ensure the legality and defensibility of any appointments. An anonymous officer from the LGRD ministry stated that no definitive directive has been issued, but all necessary groundwork has been laid out in compliance with the applicable laws and regulations.
The matter has progressed from the administrative level to a policy-level decision after being presented to the Prime Minister by LGRD Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir. The meeting between the two was reportedly productive, discussing the option of appointing zilla parishad administrators to address the operational gaps caused by the absence of elected representatives following the recent political changes.
After the events in July, where many local government representatives went underground, disrupting institutional functions, the government introduced interim administrative measures to fill the operational void. On August 18, 2024, administrators were appointed to 61 zilla parishads, with additional divisional commissioners or deputy commissioners assuming the responsibilities in different districts.
The districts of Rangamati, Khagrachhari, and Bandarban in the Chittagong Hill Tracts are governed by a special law exempting them from the Zilla Parishad Act. Previously, local government elections were non-partisan until 2015 when amendments allowed polls to be conducted under party symbols, leading to political dynamics affecting participation and outcomes.
Sources from the BNP suggested that individuals who were not nominated in national elections might receive priority for administrative appointments within the zilla parishads. These leaders, despite not securing nominations, are actively engaged in grassroots activities, making them suitable candidates for administrative roles, as perceived by the party leadership. This prioritization strategy aims to maintain internal cohesion and motivation within the party, particularly for leaders who have been long-serving but were excluded from electoral participation.