Administrative Turbulence amid Widespread Transfers and Appointments

As the thirteenth national parliamentary election approaches, various tiers of the administration have entered a phase of frequent reshuffles. New postings are being made in some places, while others are being transferred from their existing positions. In some cases, officials are appointed only to have those appointments cancelled later. This series of transfer and appointment activities has created instability within the administration, leaving officials uneasy in their workplaces. Anxiety is growing over whether one can retain their chair, when they might be transferred, and whether joining a new posting will be feasible. Sources from the Ministry of Public Administration and other ministries shared these concerns. According to public administration experts, although transfer and appointment are routine administrative processes, responsible officials are failing to demonstrate efficiency. Similarly, officers are struggling to build trust with desk officers or relevant authorities, prompting further criticism.

The national election is scheduled for February. The government has already appointed 50 deputy commissioners (DCs), who have joined their respective workplaces. However, due to criticism, the appointments of two DCs were later revoked. Another DC appointed a month earlier has also been removed following controversy. Many have questioned why proper background checks were not completed prior to appointment, and why cancellation after appointment is being allowed to undermine social dignity. Allegations suggest that the extent to which individuals were deprived during the previous government played a role in their selection as DCs. Debates have arisen over the failure to properly consider land administration expertise or magistracy experience. Not only for DCs, but orders involving additional secretaries, joint secretaries, deputy secretaries, and senior assistant secretaries are also being amended after issuance. Some officers, despite receiving transfer orders, are lobbying to remain in their existing workplaces. Even ‘stand release’ orders issued by the Ministry of Public Administration are not being implemented. Many officers are reportedly using secretaries or political figures to retain their preferred postings.

With the likelihood of reshuffles before the upcoming election, officials are frequently visiting the Ministry of Public Administration. Some are trying to remain in their current posts for a few more months. UNO and assistant commissioner (land) officials in field administration are anxious about where they might be transferred, whether their new workplace will be close or far, and whether their district or division will be changed. Administrative officials have informed incoming officers that no changes will be made at the field level without explicit instructions. Officers in the rank of joint secretary and deputy secretary are keeping close watch on whether they will be removed and are requesting consideration if they are moved. Some officers have stated they have been in their current posts for only six months or a year and hope not to be transferred now. Senior administrative units are crowded with officers seeking updates. Recently, allegations have surfaced that officers from various batches are using perceived ‘political affinities’ to influence transfer decisions. This is reportedly empowering advantaged officers over competent ones, resulting in administrative stagnation in various ministries.

One officer mentioned that hearing complaints from different batches daily has become exhausting. Officers come to blame one another or even show photos of who stood with whom in the past. A Home Ministry officer noted that across all governments, groups tend to form against competent officials, benefiting underperformers and harming the state. In recent days, the Ministry of Public Administration has seen a steady stream of officers seeking updates on reshuffles. A Cabinet Division official said that sudden transfers are heightening anxiety, especially among those who have served long in certain posts.

Alongside transfers, frustration is rising regarding promotions. Officers from the 24th batch who have not yet become joint secretaries and those from the 30th batch who have not become deputy secretaries are waiting with hope. Regular batch 20 officers have not yet been promoted to additional secretary, creating further discomfort. Many have been serving as joint secretaries for four years, leading to monotony and declining enthusiasm.

Field administration is particularly restless regarding upcoming reshuffles of upazila nirbahi officers (UNOs). Officers from batches 34, 35, and 36 are serving as UNOs. Many have enrolled their children in local schools or have spouses working in the same district, making them more anxious about transfers. Those nearing or completing two years in their postings are particularly concerned. Sources indicate that UNOs completing two years will be withdrawn and that most UNOs will see their upazila changed. A decision regarding new postings is expected within a week. Additional deputy commissioners (ADCs) serving in field administration may also see district changes.

Former secretary A K M Abdul Awal Majumder told গণমাধ্যম that reshuffles occurred before previous elections as well, but they did not attract such criticism. He believes current officials are failing to manage the situation efficiently. According to him, the more stable the administration remains ahead of the election, the better for the government. He emphasised that competent officers must be posted to good positions based on merit, not rumours.

Khaborwala/TSN