Chattogram Deputy Commissioner (DC) Mohammad Zahidul Islam Mian stepped before the media not only to showcase his administration’s work but also to ask a rare question - what do people expect from the administration? Where are its shortcomings and how can public services be improved?
Marking six months in office, the DC organised a press conference on Wednesday titled “Six Months of Transparency and Accountability” at the Circuit House conference hall, where he reflected on his administration’s achievements, challenges and future priorities.
Local journalists described the initiative as unusual, noting that senior administrators rarely seek direct feedback from the media on their own performance.
Earlier in Narayanganj, Zahidul Islam had previously held a similar interaction there during his tenure as DC, upon completing six months in office.
However, he assumed office as Chattogram DC on November 18, 2025. Wednesday’s event marked his first six months in charge of one of the country’s most strategically important districts.
Beginning with a documentary presentation highlighting the administration’s activities over the past six months, the program includes humanitarian initiatives, law-and-order efforts, cultural programmes, government priority projects and public hearing activities.
The presentation focused heavily on challenges following the political developments after August 5 and preparations surrounding the 13th national parliamentary election.
According to the DC, extensive coordination efforts were undertaken involving the army, police, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), Coast Guard and other law enforcement agencies.
The DC also took initiatives to ensure rapid deployment of law enforcement personnel at polling centres and install CCTV cameras. The election was described in the presentation as having remained free of major allegations and casualties.
The press conference also highlighted operations in Jangal Salimpur, an area long associated with criminal networks and land control disputes.
Describing the area as "a state within a state", DC Zahidul Islam said joint operations involving the army, police, RAB, BGB and executive magistrates brought the situation under control without casualties.
"After restoring control, we initiated planned land management and development activities there," he said.
Zahidul Islam also highlighted initiatives such as flower festivals at DC Park, Pohela Boishakh celebrations at DC Hill and a proposed "Festive Sale" programme ahead of Eid-ul-Adha aimed at easing pressure on consumers.
Efforts to address fuel-related irregularities were also discussed.
The DC said drives were conducted against illegal fuel storage and smuggling, including the seizure of 25,000 litres of illegally stored diesel in Sitakunda.
Other initiatives highlighted included land recovery operations, labour rights activities, family card programmes, canal re-excavation projects, tree plantation drives, cultural programmes, humanitarian efforts in prisons and online public hearings for expatriates.
However, the event's most notable moment came when the DC directly sought criticism and suggestions from journalists.
"I wanted to know whether we are meeting people's expectations and what more needs to be done," he said.
Adding that the media reflects society's realities more closely than anyone else and media’s observations and suggestions are important for them.
He also acknowledged the limitations of public office. "Every individual has limitations and I am no exception. But wherever we serve, we try to give our best," added he.
Expressing gratitude to the media, Zahidul Islam thanked journalists for their cooperation during the past six months.
"Your cooperation, criticism and suggestions will help us work more effectively," he said.
He also expressed that the district administration remains committed to ensuring transparency and accountability despite resource constraints and increasing responsibilities.
Addressing journalists at the end of the event, he said: "If you have any suggestions, please share them. And if you think something is wrong, tell us that too, so we can correct ourselves."
The event was attended by senior district administration officials and journalists from different media organisations, including leaders of the Chattogram Press Club.
