Committee to Investigate Local Government Irregularities and Corruption

The State Minister for Local Government, Rural Development, and Co-operatives (LGRD), Mir Shahe Alam, has announced the formation of a high-level committee to investigate allegations of widespread corruption and administrative irregularities within the Local Government Division. During a press briefing at the Secretariat on Saturday, 23 May 2026, the State Minister disclosed that the investigation would cover the tenures of both the previous Awami League administration and the interim government.

Allegations Against Former Advisor Asif Mahmud

A primary focus of the minister’s briefing was a specific instance of procedural non-compliance involving the former advisor, Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain. Mir Shahe Alam alleged that the former advisor had approved a project file without the mandatory signature of the concerned Secretary. Under standard administrative protocols, the Secretary’s endorsement is a prerequisite for departmental approvals to ensure fiscal and legal accountability. The State Minister characterised this action as a significant breach of official regulations.

Formation of the Seven-Member Inquiry Committee

To address systemic issues, the government has constituted a seven-member investigation committee. Led by the Director General of the Local Government Division, the committee is tasked with reviewing the activities of the division and its subordinate agencies spanning a 17-year period.

Key Investigation Parameters:

Financial Discrepancies in Pirojpur and Other Districts

The State Minister highlighted a severe case of financial misappropriation in the Pirojpur district. According to his statement, approximately 6,000 crore BDT was withdrawn for a development project following the completion of the tender process, yet no physical work was executed on the ground. This massive embezzlement has resulted in a total cessation of various infrastructure projects across the district for the past two years.

Furthermore, the minister noted that the investigation would extend to several other districts where similar irregularities have been reported in the construction of roads and bridges. These projects have reportedly suffered from both financial leakage and substandard implementation.

Future Administrative Actions

In response to these findings, Mir Shahe Alam confirmed his intention to visit Pirojpur shortly to inspect the stalled sites and initiate measures to restart development activities. The government aims to restore transparency within the ministry by holding accountable those responsible for the unauthorised approval of files and the misappropriation of public funds. The final report, expected within 60 working days, will dictate the subsequent legal and administrative steps to be taken against the implicated individuals.