Advisors Busy Lobbying for Transfers

Staff Reporter

Advisors are reportedly involved in lobbying for the transfer of government employees. They are making recommendations, either in writing or verbally, for the transfer of individuals they favor. Not only advisors but also senior secretaries and officials of similar rank are engaging in these activities.

This was revealed in a notice signed by Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Public Administration, Miah Muhammad Ashraf Reza Faridi, on February 11.

The notice stated that in line with the rules of business, the Ministry of Public Administration handles transfers and postings for deputy secretaries and non-cadre officers from various ministries, divisions, and agencies.

The notice also issued a warning, highlighting that it has recently been observed that some officials are requesting transfers through unofficial channels such as semi-government letters or verbal requests from advisors, senior secretaries, or other officials. Such actions are considered violations under the Government Employees (Conduct) Rules, 1979, specifically under section 20.

The truth of this issue was confirmed after a letter regarding lobbying for the appointment of the Dhaka North City Corporation administrator went viral. In a press conference held on Monday, Local Government, Rural Development, and Cooperatives Advisor Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan admitted the authenticity of the letter.

A week prior, the letter circulated on social media, prompting reporters to ask the advisor about it. He admitted, “I saw on social media that I made a recommendation for the appointment.”