Jatiya Sangsad Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad has said the deputy commissioners (DCs) play a significant role in establishing democracy in the country, particularly as they serve as returning officers during national elections.
Addressing the “Deputy Commissioners Conference 2026” as the chief guest on Monday, the Speaker added that bureaucracy must play its proper role to make democracy meaningful. The event was organised by the Cabinet Division at the Oath Room of Jatiya Sangsad.
Ahmad observed that during the 16-year tenure of the previous Awami League government, the electoral system was plagued by unprecedented corruption and flaws.
He emphasised that deputy commissioners can play a robust role in ensuring that the overall election process, including national polls, remains free and fair. “In the coming days, bureaucrats must not appear as rulers, but rather as servants to the people,” he said.
The Speaker further noted that the people of Bangladesh are deeply democratic. He highlighted the unique sacrifices made by the general public in every democratic movement from 1971 to 2024 to restore democracy in the country.
Ahmad added that the Bangladesh of 1971 symbolises the infinite courage and sacrifice of the Bengali nation.
Jatiya Sangsad Deputy Speaker Barrister Kayser Kamal described the Parliament as the centre of democracy. He added that democratic debate does not weaken the Parliament but rather strengthens it, noting that the executive branch implements the laws enacted by the legislature.
Jatiya Sangsad Chief Whip Md Nurul Islam Moni said deputy commissioners serve as a bridge between the government and the people. He added that their role in field administration is vital for implementing central policies and programmes.
Earlier, Jatiya Sangsad Secretariat Secretary Barrister Md Golam Sarwar Bhuiyan delivered the welcome address.
Speeches were also delivered by Deputy Commissioner of Rangamati, Miz Najma Ashrafi; the Deputy Commissioner of Bogra, Md Towfiqur Rahman; and Divisional Commissioner of Rajshahi ANM Bazlur Rashid, on behalf of the DCs.
Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Gani concluded the session with a vote of thanks.
The programme was attended by deputy commissioners, divisional commissioners, and senior officials from the Jatiya Sangsad Secretariat and the Cabinet Division. Following an exchange of views with the officials, the Speaker participated in a photo session.
