LGRDC Minister Fakhrul commits to controlling mob violence, restoring law and order

Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives (LGRDC) Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Wednesday vowed to curb mob violence and strengthen law and order across the country, while pledging to make the ministry more dynamic in addressing citizens’ concerns.

Speaking to reporters at the Bangladesh Secretariat on his first working day after the formation of the government, Fakhrul said, “Mobocracy will be controlled. Efforts will be made to improve the law-and-order situation. We have passed through a storm, a revolution, a mass uprising. Not everything can be fixed immediately.”

Highlighting the government’s broader mission, he said, “The main challenge is to build the nation. Our Prime Minister, who now leads us, began with the words ‘I have a plan’ for Bangladesh. He has formed the cabinet to implement that plan. The cabinet will work to solve the people’s problems and move Bangladesh forward.”

Fakhrul emphasised that democracy will remain the guiding principle in all government activities.

“Democracy is our main ingredient. Particularly in the Local Government Ministry, which directly interacts with the grassroots, I have an advantage because I have worked in local government before,” he said, expressing confidence in making the ministry efficient and responsive.

On questions related to law and order, the economy, and foreign policy, Fakhrul said the situation is improving.

“Law and order situation has improved compared to before. Macroeconomic stability has returned. Banks are largely under control. With coordinated efforts, we can improve these areas further,” he noted.

He also described the recent election under the interim government as a significant achievement.

“We have achieved a major milestone through election. Both nationally and internationally, the polls are being recognised as inclusive, which is why they are acceptable to all,” Fakhrul said.

Regarding Awami League’s future role, the minister said the government will announce its political decisions later.

Responding to questions about the potential publication of a white paper on the interim government’s performance, Fakhrul said, “They took responsibility at a special moment and accomplished most of the required work. Credit must be given for the transition to democracy - they have done a good job.”