MIDA’s expatriate hiring policy regarding Maheshkhali: Anger among local architects

❐ Staff Reporter

Maheshkhali Integrated Development Authority (MIDA) Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashiq Mahmud Bin Harun recently said that they are looking for an experienced urban planner for the new township or township plan in Maheshkhali, who must be an expatriate Bangladeshi. This statement has created intense anger and tension in the architectural community of Bangladesh. Domestic architects and experts have raised the question, is there no such skilled and experienced urban planner in Bangladesh that only expatriate Bangladeshis should be given priority?

Architect Jalal Ahmed, president of the Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB), said, “Such statements are a sign of distrust and contempt for local architects. There are numerous skilled architects and urban planners in Bangladesh who have successfully worked on various projects in the country. While respecting the experience of expatriates, ignoring local talent is in no way acceptable.”

There has already been widespread criticism of the appointment of expatriate Bangladeshis in the administration and important positions during the Yunus government. In particular, questions have been raised about the predominance of expatriates in 90 percent of the government’s top positions and their accountability. Among them, the announcement of giving priority only to expatriate Bangladeshis in specialized positions in important projects like MEDA has further increased frustration and anger among local experts.

Dr. Rakibul Hasan, a professor at the Department of Urban and Regional Planning at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), said, “Midar’s decision reflects the Yunus government’s distrust of local architects, economists and other experts. Many in our country have worked on international-standard projects. It is incomprehensible to exclude them and give priority only to expatriates.”

He added, “Such a policy will hinder the development of domestic talent and spread frustration among the youth.”

Following the statement by Mida Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashiq Mahmud Bin Harun, there has been intense criticism on social media. Many feel that such a decision, while appreciating the contribution of expatriates to the country’s economic and social development, underestimates local experts.

An architect wrote on Facebook, “If the Yunus government does not rely on local talent, how can we dream of sustainable development?”

On the other hand, an official from Mida, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, “The international experience of expatriate Bangladeshis can add a new dimension to this project. However, the results would have been better if they had worked in coordination with local architects.”

The incident raises questions about the balance between expatriate and local expertise in the country’s economic and administrative policies. Analysts believe that not prioritizing local talent in important projects like Maheshkhali will increase discontent among locals, which could pose political and social challenges for the Yunus government.