To decentralize the service system for the vast population and facilitate power delegation, the Public Administration Reform Commission has recommended dividing the boundaries of the four old divisions into four provinces, introducing a provincial governance system.
On Wednesday (February 5), the commission’s chief, Abdul Muid Chowdhury, submitted the report to Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna. The commission provided both short-term and medium-term recommendations.
The report suggests that the existing administrative and local government structure is no longer sufficient due to the growing population and expanded government functions. Under a centralized system, many minor tasks are managed at the ministerial level. Considering the need for power delegation, the commission proposed that the four old divisions be transformed into four provinces, which would reduce the concentration of power in a centralized government and ease the burden on the capital city, Dhaka.
Capital City Government
In light of Dhaka’s population and service demands, the commission recommended establishing a ‘Capital City Government’ similar to New Delhi’s federal government-controlled system. This new governance structure would include an elected legislative assembly and local government, covering areas like Dhaka Metropolitan, Tongi, Keraniganj, Savar, and Narayanganj.
Abolishment of District Councils
The report noted ongoing discussions about whether to retain district councils as a tier of local government. Since district council chairpersons have never been directly elected by citizens and most councils lack a robust revenue source, the commission recommended abolishing district councils. Their assets and responsibilities would be transferred to the proposed provincial governments.
Strengthening Municipalities
Given the importance of municipalities, the report recommended further empowering them as local governments. It suggested that municipal chairpersons be elected by ward members, as currently, once elected, chairpersons often disregard ward members.
Empowering Upazila Councils
The commission also recommended strengthening Upazila Councils as local government entities. However, it proposed eliminating the Vice Chairman position. To increase representation, one-third of Union Parishad members would rotate as council members.
It was suggested that the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) should not be under the Upazila Council but instead focus on reserved and statutory issues such as law enforcement, land management, examination control, and mobile court operations to keep the role free from political influence. A Senior Assistant Secretary-level officer could be appointed as the Secretary of the Upazila Council.
Effective Land Management
To enhance land management, a second-class land management officer position could be established at the Upazila level. Promotions for these positions would come from Kanungos under the Ministry of Land, eventually allowing 25% of them to become Assistant Commissioners (Land) through PSC-conducted exams.
Reforms in Union Parishads
The commission recommended adjusting the number of wards in Union Parishads based on population, ranging from 9 to 11. Each ward would elect two members, including one woman, ensuring 50% female representation and defined working areas. Union Parishad chairpersons would also be elected by ward members to ensure accountability.
Increased Responsibilities for Union Parishads
The report proposed assigning Union Parishads more responsibilities, such as implementing non-formal and mosque-based education programs. Committees on agriculture, water, health services, and other sectors could be formed under the leadership of Union Parishad chairpersons.
Strengthening the existing village courts and arbitration systems would help reduce local disputes and legal cases.
The report also emphasized forming these committees through public hearings, inviting local residents and allowing them to participate in the activities of these committees.
