BNP moves to reward its leaders with important state roles

The government has begun recognising long-serving and dedicated leaders of the ruling Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and qualified members of their families by appointing them to key positions in state institutions, as part of a broader initiative to acknowledge their contributions to the party and the pro-democracy movements.

According to multiple BNP sources, the government views the initiative positively and plans to gradually extend similar recognition to more committed leaders and activists in the coming months.

Several BNP and affiliated organisation leaders have been appointed to key positions in government agencies, city corporations, and the administration. The move has been welcomed by party leaders and grassroots activists, many of whom now expect that their years of sacrifice and political commitment may also receive official recognition.

Those so far appointed include former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia's Private Secretary Md. Shamsul Alam; BNP International Affairs Secretary Mohammad Rashedul Haque; Forest and Environment Affairs Secretary Mohammad Mosaddek Hossain Bulbul; Assistant Forest and Environment Affairs Secretary Kazi Rawnakul Islam (Tipu); Assistant Organising Secretary Benjir Ahmed Tito; Assistant Religious Affairs Secretary ATM Abdul Bari Danny; former Senior Vice-President of Jubo Dal Md. Mamun Hasan; former Vice-President Md. Jakir Hossain Siddiqui; Executive President of Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal Md. Salah Uddin Sarkar; BNP Executive Committee member Md. Shamsuzzaman Suruj; Assistant Organising Secretary Abdul Khaleque; and former Jubo Dal Vice-President Md. Kamruzzaman Dulal.

Sources familiar with the matter said discussions are underway on appointing competent, honest, and experienced individuals to important positions in the administration, constitutional and autonomous institutions, boards, corporations, and other state agencies. Particular consideration is reportedly being given to party leaders who withdrew from the last national election in compliance with the party's decision, as well as those who played active roles in democratic movements over the years. A number of such individuals have already been appointed as city corporation administrators and commissioners.

In addition, qualified government officials who were previously associated with BNP or its student wing, Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal, and who allegedly faced discrimination during the previous administration are also being assigned to important responsibilities in phases.

Senior policymakers believe that involving politically experienced leaders with extensive organisational backgrounds and strong public engagement in state administration could strengthen governance, efficiency, and accountability. It will also strengthen the party position in government and administration, they feel.

According to sources, appointments will gradually be made to vacant positions in ministries, regulatory authorities, development agencies, commissions, boards, corporations, and state-owned enterprises. While political commitment is considered as an important factor, priority will also be given to professional competence, administrative capability and experience. 

A government source said an informal review is being conducted of leaders who made significant sacrifices for the party, endured political persecution, or remained active organisationally over the past several years. However, the source emphasised that appointments will not be made solely on the basis of political identity; candidates' ability to perform their responsibilities will be thoroughly assessed before any final decision.

BNP Standing Committee member Begum Selima Rahman, MP, said party leaders and activists endured widespread repression over the past 17 years. “The process of recognising their sacrifices is undoubtedly a positive initiative. Dedicated leaders can also be rewarded through organisational responsibilities, contractual government appointments, and nominations in local government elections,” she said.

As part of the ongoing recognition process, the government on Thursday night appointed BNP and affiliated organisation leaders to chairmanships, director-general positions, and other key posts in 12 government agencies on a contractual basis.

State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku said many party leaders lost their jobs, were unable to continue their businesses, or endured imprisonment and political repression while participating in movements against what he described as the previous “fascist” regime.

“Now those educated and qualified leaders are being evaluated and recognised. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is showing respect for the sacrifices and struggles of grassroots leaders and activists, setting an example that we hope will continue in the future,” he said.

Another senior government source said the administration's primary objective is to utilise skilled and experienced human resources in state management. Individuals who have both dedicated themselves to the party and demonstrated professional competence in their respective fields are being seriously considered for important responsibilities. However, the source noted that no final decision has yet been made and appointments will be made gradually according to vacancies and institutional requirements.

BNP's student wing Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal General Secretary Nasir Uddin Nasir said there had initially been some disappointment among party activists regarding recognition after the formation of the government, but that situation has now changed.

“Tested and dedicated leaders are gradually being recognised. Ahead of the upcoming local government elections and through appointments to various important government positions, many more qualified leaders are expected to receive recognition based on merit,” he hoped.