Strengthening district councils

FE Team | Published: March 28, 2026 19:56:26

Recently, the government has appointed administrators in 42 district councils across the country to ensure the smooth functioning of development activities, especially when canal re-excavation efforts have gained momentum. The district council is a key local government institution, responsible for prioritising essential development initiatives while effectively monitoring and coordinating all development activities across the district through its strong administrative framework. The government's decision to appoint administrators aims to reinforce the fulfillment of citizens' expectations and to strengthen the foundations of true democracy. It is hoped that this transition from bureaucratic administrators to politically experienced individuals will lead to more effective and responsive service delivery. Although this appointment is intended as an interim measure it should not be prolonged; rather, there should be a swift transition to credible local government elections.
A key consideration is that the roles of the Member of Parliament, the District Council Administrator, and the Upazila Chairman should remain clearly distinct, without overlapping responsibilities in the same domain. The primary duty of an MP is to legislate, identifying gaps in existing laws, addressing challenges in their implementation, and recommending necessary amendments. Even if any irregularities or misconduct are detected in the development process, the MP can promptly bring them to the attention of the relevant authority, which would then take necessary action with due urgency and respect.
On the other hand, the district council, with its full complement of members, should be strengthened and made more effective so that local government remains dynamic and impactful, rather than becoming an insignificant institution. As a result, the essence of democracy would thrive, and people-centered initiatives would accelerate. The District Council is primarily responsible for a wide range of development activities. These include building, repairing, and maintaining physical infrastructure such as roads, culverts, bridges, and drainage systems. It also plays a vital role in promoting education at both primary and secondary levels, improving public health services, and providing disaster relief, among other essential functions.
It is hoped that the district council would be transformed into a more functional and efficient institution, giving it a renewed and modern outlook.
Md. Refatul Hossain
An Agriculturist
refatdae87@gmail.com