A F Hassan Arif, Adviser to the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives, and the Ministry of Land, has said that 'reform' is an ongoing process. It is not a packaged product that can be bought from a shop. To keep the wheels of this process turning, it is essential to strengthen mutual relationships.
He made these remarks as the chief guest at a discussion held on Wednesday (November 6) afternoon in the conference room of the Local Government Division at the Secretariat.
The meeting focused on improving the overall efficiency of the Zila and Union Parishad.
Hassan Arif emphasized, "From the Union Parishad to the City Corporation, District, Upazila, and Pourashava, it is crucial that no local government institution experiences any disruption in the delivery of public services. We must all remain vigilant in this regard. If necessary, a clear chain of supervision should be established at every level of local government, ensuring that each official is accountable to their immediate superior."
Regarding financial transparency, the Local Government Adviser underscored the importance of prioritizing financial integrity.
He stated that the reform process must ensure transparency in financial matters and called for a concerted effort to tackle the corruption that has persisted over the past 16 years.
He further urged strict measures to prevent financial misconduct.
He also noted, "We must remember that students and the public sacrificed their lives through movement to permanently remove a long-standing mismanagement. We cannot let their sacrifices go in vain."
The meeting, chaired by the Secretary of the Local Government Division, Md Nazrul Islam, was also attended by A K M Tariqul Alam, with administrators from all District Councils, Upazila Parishads, and Pourashavas joining the session online.
Bd-Pratidin English/ARK
