Reform Needed for Bureaucrats and Elected Representatives

On June 11, the final match of the Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman Memorial Football Tournament 2025 was held at the Bardia Secondary School field, organized by the BNP’s Baldia Union unit in Swarupkathi upazila, Pirojpur. The event was attended by dignitaries from the administrative sector of Pirojpur District and Swarupkathi police station. Chief Guest was Md. Nazimul Haque, Additional DIG of Barisal Range. Special guests included Pirojpur District Police Superintendent Khan Muhammad Abu Naser and Assistant Police Superintendent (Nesarabad Circle) Sabiha Mehebuba. Other distinguished guests included Assistant Commissioner (Land) Raihan Mahmud and Officer-in-Charge of Nesarabad Police Station Md. Bani Amin.

The keynote speaker was Abdullah Al Beruni Saikat, Member Secretary of Nesarabad Upazila BNP. The event was presided over by Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md. Zahidul Islam. The event was coordinated by tournament organizing committee convener Md. Saiful Islam and joint convener Md. Nasim Reza Chanchal.

Civil servants are permanent employees of the state, meant to assist in government operations, and are expected to remain neutral in party politics. However, we frequently see them participating directly or indirectly in political events, rallies, or cultural programs, which poses a threat to democracy, good governance, and impartiality.

Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya aptly said, “Today he is a bureaucrat, tomorrow a politician, the day after a businessman. This is the problem. They appear before us in many forms. In many cases, these three have become the same.”

The neutrality of the bureaucracy is essential for democracy in Bangladesh. Democracy rests on freedom of expression, equal voting rights, and participatory governance. These are only effective when civil services, election commissions, administration, and the judiciary function impartially. Without neutrality, democracy becomes fragile, public trust is eroded, and authoritarianism emerges.

On the other hand, when political leaders prioritize personal or party interests over public welfare, it damages political stability and public trust. Such practices have long persisted in Bangladesh, leading to frustration, anger, and divisions among people. This not only weakens democratic processes but also hinders national progress.

Bureaucracy often aids rulers in becoming authoritarian. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has used the bureaucracy to implement her political will and maintain power. This symbiotic relationship between the ruler and the bureaucracy fosters authoritarianism and disregards democratic values. When bureaucracy becomes corrupt, biased, and disrespectful toward citizens, it supports autocratic behavior and dismantles democratic institutions.

Bureaucracy is an essential and integral part of modern governance. It contributes to all levels of administrative, economic, social, and diplomatic operations. The role of a skilled and neutral civil service is undeniable in ensuring good governance, development, and political stability.

Far from being a mechanical framework, bureaucracy is a professional and organized force that forms a key pillar of the political process. Its importance is such that modern governance is unthinkable without it. Rich or poor, all nations seek to nurture a skilled and dependable civil service.

Yet in Bangladesh, most people still address government officials as “Sir,” while many officials fail to reciprocate with respect. Their rank and authority often instill fear and awe among citizens, but their service-oriented responsibility is frequently absent. Many see themselves not as public servants but as rulers. According to the constitution, sovereignty lies with the people. Civil servants, paid by public taxes, are meant to serve the people. When their behavior reflects arrogance rather than service, the foundations of democracy are weakened.

There have been instances where an official felt insulted for not being addressed as “Sir.” Respect, however, is earned through behavior, not fear. Being a bureaucrat is indeed an achievement, but it does not grant anyone the right to belittle the public. In democratic culture, where citizens’ dignity is paramount, officials should use respectful terms like “Sir” to honor the public, not to demand honor.

After independence in 1971, Bangladesh inherited Pakistan’s bureaucratic framework. Although the 1972 Constitution laid the foundation for democratic administration, the bureaucracy retained its colonial legacy. Over time, corruption, nepotism, and inefficiency grew within the system, creating administrative deadlock.

The philosophy of bureaucracy is rooted in Max Weber’s concept of Legal-Rational Authority. According to him, bureaucracy is built on clear rules, defined responsibilities, and professionalism. When effective and accountable, bureaucracy can strengthen democratic institutions.

Despite occasional conflicts, democracy and bureaucracy are complementary. Elected representatives set policy, while bureaucracy implements it. However, in Bangladesh, the concentration of power and political influence often prevent the bureaucracy from aligning with democratic norms. The real fault lies with disconnected political leaders who prioritize personal interests, giving bureaucrats the room to engage in corruption and help perpetuate authoritarianism.

Even though governments set policy, implementation depends on bureaucracy. Without skilled administration, democratic decisions cannot be enforced. Neutrality in civil services is vital for rule of law. Bias and corruption weaken democracy. Transparency is essential for sustainable democracy. Right to information, anti-corruption measures, and efficient service delivery require capable administration. Decentralization strengthens local government and ensures direct service to the people.

A stable administrative structure helps maintain policy continuity during government transitions. Effective civil service is key to ensuring an investment-friendly environment and economic growth.

Protecting citizens’ rights is a fundamental responsibility of the civil service. Upholding human rights, freedom of speech, and equal opportunity requires a neutral administration. Corruption disrupts justice and rule of law. When public opinion becomes irrelevant, democratic institutions weaken, leading to social unrest. The disconnected bureaucracy under Sheikh Hasina has helped shape her authoritarian and fascist rule. Centralization of power, weakening the rule of law, suppression of media and opposition, destruction of public trust, and erosion of social justice have all contributed to this.

Democracy thrives when both administrative structures and political leadership are devoted to public welfare. Unfortunately, many bureaucrats and elected officials act more like masters than servants. Bureaucracy reflects mismanagement, and politicians often prioritize party allegiance or personal gain over people’s voices. As a result, public suffering increases, democracy loses vitality, and state institutions become disconnected from the masses.

It is therefore imperative that both bureaucrats and elected representatives reform themselves. Their mindset must change to one of responsibility, transparency, and accountability. Democracy is not just about elections; it is about daily justice in governance and service. To restore this justice, administration and politics must be re-grounded in humanity and ethics.

Saeed Khan is a journalist and political analyst; Organizational Secretary, DUJ