Residents in the northern districts of Thakurgaon, Panchagarh, and Dinajpur are expressing hopeful anticipation for anticipated progress following the appointment of Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir as the Minister of Local Government, Rural Development, and Cooperatives. Although the formal issuance of his appointment is pending, as per the BNP’s official Facebook page, locals from various backgrounds are optimistic about the region’s potential development, focusing on agro-based industries, enhanced transportation infrastructure, and increased job prospects.
There is a pressing need highlighted by the residents to revive activities at Thakurgaon Airport, create economic zones, and bolster healthcare and education systems to unlock the economic opportunities in the north. Additionally, there is a strong desire for socio-cultural endeavors to strengthen community unity and preserve the region’s social fabric.
Professor Monotosh Kumar Dey, a prominent educator in Thakurgaon, sees Fakhrul’s appointment as a promising opportunity for advancing development and expanding access to higher education in the region. Samsuzzaman Dulal, president of the Thakurgaon Chamber of Commerce and Industries, believes Fakhrul’s reputation as a dynamic and ethical leader has raised hopes among business communities for industrial growth and job creation.
Similarly, Abu Bakar Siddique, president of the Dinajpur Chamber of Commerce and Industries, emphasizes the significance of agro-based industries in promoting fair prices for farmers and maximizing agricultural output value through processing industries and improved road networks. Tapan Kumar Ghosh, district general secretary of the Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad, looks forward to inclusive development efforts while preserving peace and communal harmony under Fakhrul’s leadership.
Shariful Islam Sharif, president of the BNP’s Thakurgaon municipality unit, lauds Fakhrul’s pivotal role in national politics and describes his appointment as well-earned. In the 13th parliamentary election, Fakhrul secured victory in the Thakurgaon-1 seat, defeating his closest contender, Delwar Hossain of Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh.
Fakhrul, born in Thakurgaon in 1948, has a strong educational background and a history of public service, starting with roles in Thakurgaon Municipality and later advancing in BNP politics. His parliamentary journey began in 2001, leading to various ministerial positions, culminating in his current role as the secretary-general of BNP since 2016.