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The case of disgruntled DC aspirants
In a stunning departure from the disciplined nature of public service, chaos erupted at the heart of Bangladesh’s Ministry of Public Administration on September 10. Mid-level civil servants, frustrated with the recent appointment of 59 deputy commissioners (DCs), openly protested at the secretariat, shouting slogans and shoving senior officials—a scene unimaginable in the typically hierarchical and rule-bound structure of bureaucracy. The discontent stems from allegations of favouritism and unfairness in the selection process, as many aspiring DCs found themselves bypassed in favour of others.
At a time when Bangladesh is undergoing a crucial transformation under a newly installed interim government, such a breakdown of discipline in the very agency tasked with maintaining order is deeply troubling. Following the July uprising, the government’s foremost task has been restoring law and order—a task that hinges on the effectiveness of field administration where the DCs play a crucial role as the highest-ranking officials at the district level.
It’s not difficult to see why mid-level officers are frustrated. For years, the civil service has been seen as a tool for political gain, rather than an institution governed by merit and professionalism. Under the long tenure of Sheikh Hasina, appointments were frequently influenced by political connections rather than competence. As a result, the civil service is now deeply polarised, with many officers feeling sidelined and discriminated against due to their perceived affiliations.
While the interim government has made significant strides in addressing some of these issues, the damage inflicted by years of politicisation is not easily undone. The latest round of DC appointments, which should have been an opportunity to restore confidence, has instead exacerbated the sense of injustice within the ranks.
However justified their grievances may be, the actions of the junior officers cannot be condoned. Bureaucracy, as envisioned by Max Weber, is built on the foundations of hierarchy, discipline, and adherence to written rules. The very essence of public service is its commitment to professionalism and order, even in the face of frustration. When those who are meant to uphold the system become its disrupters, it sends a dangerous message.
At this critical juncture, the civil service must rise above personal grievances. The country is recovering from a period of immense political and social upheaval, and the citizens deserve a functioning, competent and impartial administration. It is the duty of every civil servant, especially those in leadership positions like DCs, to ensure the smooth functioning of government institutions and the delivery of essential services.
The interim government, for its part, must take swift and decisive action. The politicisation of civil service must be addressed through transparent processes, ensuring that future appointments are based on merit and not political loyalty. More importantly, the grievances of civil servants must be heard through formal channels, rather than allowing discontent to spill into the public arena.
During his address to the nation on September 11, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus announced the formation of six reform commissions, which includes the Public Administration Reform Commission, to be led by Abdul Mueed Chowdhury, the newly appointed chairman of Biman Bangladesh Airlines. The commission can identify necessary reform measures for a professional, accountable and pro-people civil service in Bangladesh.
Additionally, this incident serves as a stark reminder that the civil service itself must be part of the solution. Public servants are not merely employees of the state, they are the backbone of governance. At a time when the country is grappling with challenges on multiple fronts, from economic instability to social unrest, the civil service must act as a stabilising force, not a source of discord.
Bureaucracy, as envisioned by Max Weber, is built on the foundations of hierarchy, discipline, and adherence to written rules. The very essence of public service is its commitment to professionalism and order, even in the face of frustration. When those who are meant to uphold the system become its disrupters, it sends a dangerous message.