Govt removes Mohammad Azaz as DNCC administrator

Mohammad Azaz has been removed from his position as administrator of Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC), the government announced on Monday, signalling a notable shift in the city’s administration.

A gazette issued by the Local Government Division confirmed the appointment of Additional Secretary Suraiya Akhter Jahan as the new DNCC administrator.

Alongside her current duties, Suraiya Akhter will assume the powers and responsibilities of the DNCC mayor.

The gazette clarified that she will receive only the prescribed duty allowance for this role, without any additional financial benefits.

Mohammad Azaz, who also serves as chairman of the River and Delta Research Centre, had been appointed DNCC administrator on 12 February 2025.

His removal comes shortly after a court imposed a travel ban on him, following an application filed by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC). While the ACC’s case details have not been publicly disclosed, the travel restriction added to the uncertainty surrounding Azaz’s tenure.

The change in leadership marks a critical moment for DNCC, which oversees key urban management, civic services and development projects in Dhaka’s northern areas.

With Suraiya Akhter Jahan now in charge, the government is expected to maintain continuity in city governance while addressing administrative and regulatory priorities.

Observers note that the transition underscores the government’s heightened focus on accountability for city officials and the growing role of senior bureaucrats in municipal administration.

Residents and stakeholders are watching closely to see how this new leadership will impact urban planning, service delivery and the ongoing civic projects in Dhaka North.