The government-built flats for secretaries on Minto Road in the capital are so luxurious that they surpass even high-end hotels, said Hossain Zillur Rahman, executive chairman of the private research organization Power and Participation Research Centre (PPRC).
He made the remarks on Thursday at a policy dialogue titled “Economic Governance and Anti-Corruption” at the CIRDAP Auditorium on Topkhana Road, Dhaka. The event was organized by the Centre for Governance Studies (CGS).
Hossain Zillur Rahman criticized the lack of accountability over state expenditure, warning that without effective public spending management, Bangladesh cannot move forward. He said government officials’ salaries have increased significantly, but there is no evidence of improved implementation of the Annual Development Program (ADP) or more effective public spending.
He highlighted inefficiencies in the state structure, citing funding constraints, opaque decision-making, and “ego-driven projects of the powerful.” Citing the recent sudden appointment of three members to the board of Biman Bangladesh Airlines, he questioned why the rationale for such decisions is not made public if justified.
He also pointed out that many ICT parks are effectively being used as community centers to cover security staff salaries, describing it as a “project-driven mindset” spreading like cancer in state administration.
Hossain Zillur said no research had shown a reduction in corruption. Despite frequent discussions on reforms, tangible results are lacking. He also cited the government’s failure to set an example in traffic management. Criticizing the lack of prioritization and transparency in mega projects, he said people want action, not promises.
CGS President Zillur Rahman expressed doubts about the upcoming national parliamentary election, warning that although the government claims it will be the best election in history, it risks becoming the worst. He added that several key decisions ahead of the election exceed routine administrative authority and should be made by an elected government.
Dhaka University Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Administration) Sayema Haque Bidisha said digitalization can significantly reduce corruption, but gaps in digital literacy and implementation, especially in taxation, remain challenges.
RAPID Executive Director M Abu Yusuf called for scrutiny of operational budgets alongside development budgets, including vehicles for MPs and ministers, tax-free benefits, and public workforce size.
BNP Vice Chairman Asaduzzaman Ripon said MPs and ministers should receive adequate facilities but emphasized that being an MP must be a full-time responsibility. The culture of using parliamentary status for lobbying or personal gain must end.
Other speakers included former Chittagong City Corporation Mayor Mahmudul Islam Chowdhury, former BCI President Shahedul Islam Helal, and leaders from political, academic, and business sectors. CGS Executive Director Parvez Karim Abbasi moderated the event.
