allegations of corruption in the appointment of the Director General of the Department of Fisheries, a critical institution of Bangladesh

The initiation of a new Bangladesh, where the success of anti-discrimination movements has been achieved on the basis of good governance, is now overshadowed by allegations of corruption in the appointment of the Director General of the Department of Fisheries, a critical institution. Investigations have revealed unethical transactions surrounding the top position at the Department of Fisheries, raising questions about the role of the relevant ministry in this incident.

The Situation Following the Vacancy of the Director General Post

The post of Director General became vacant after Md. Zillur Rahman, the former Director General of the Department of Fisheries, recently retired. According to regulations, this vacant post should be filled based on merit and seniority. However, there seems to be an opaque process underway, contrary to these principles. The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock has merely handed over the acting responsibility to the Additional Director General, treating it as a formality.

Investigation into Corruption

It is alleged that an influential group is attempting to bypass the rules of seniority to appoint a specific official to the position of "Director General." Investigations have uncovered that large sums of money are involved in this process.

Ministry's Silence

Attempts were made to contact Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, M A Akmal Hossain Azad, but his phone number was found to be switched off. Multiple efforts were made to reach Fisheries and Livestock Ministry Adviser Ms. Farida Akhter through various means to inquire about these allegations but to no avail.

Irregularities in DG Appointment

The CSB NEWS USA inquired about several points regarding the DG appointment, including:

1. Irregular Process in DG Appointment: It is known that the appointment of the DG position is usually conducted through a promotion board meeting involving the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, the Ministry of Public Administration, and the Ministry of Finance. However, on December 17, the appointment of the Acting Director General of the Department of Fisheries was announced without a promotion board meeting. How was this exceptional decision made?

2. Appointment of the Accused Official: Just two weeks prior, on December 5, the Cabinet Division sent a letter requesting action based on specific allegations against an official. How was this same official appointed as "Acting Director General" despite the allegations? What is the rationale behind this appointment?

3. Deviation from Gradation List: The top-ranked eligible officer on the gradation list was overlooked, and the second-ranked officer was appointed as "Acting Director General." This decision contradicts the spirit of the anti-discrimination movement and disrespects merit. How does your ministry justify this unusual decision?

On December 23, 2024, an attempt was made to gather information from Ms. Farida Akhter, Adviser to the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock. The CSB NEWS USA reporter was waiting for her response.

Concerns Within the Ministry

Information from within the ministry reveals that many officials have raised questions about this corruption allegation but are afraid to speak out.

Reaction from Student Community

Asaduzzaman, a student at Dhaka University, condemned the incident, saying, "If merit and seniority are sold out to money despite our sacrifices and struggles against discrimination, it is a shame for the nation."

How Much Money is Involved?

The exact amount of money involved in the appointment of the Director General is unclear. However, sources indicate that the amount is substantial.

Victim of Discrimination

Syed Md. Alamgir, who ranked first in the 11th BCS Fisheries cadre, has reportedly been deprived of the Director General position despite his successful 32-year career. Despite having no specific corruption charges against him, he was denied the position just seven months after taking responsibility based on merit and qualification on January 1, 2024.

Public Demand

Representatives from students to civil society have demanded a thorough investigation into the matter and strict action against those responsible. They believe that curbing this corruption is the only way to uphold the ideals of good governance in a new Bangladesh.

The allegations of corruption regarding the "Director General" position at the Department of Fisheries raise questions not just about the ministry but also about the administrative framework of the entire country.