Ismail Zabihullah vows to restore neutrality in public administration

Public administration reform is now a priority for the government, as politicisation over the past one and a half decades has eroded neutrality and efficiency, Prime Minister’s Adviser Ismail Zabihullah said on Friday.

Speaking to journalists during an exchange of views with officials at Lakshmipur Circuit House, Ismail Zabihullah stated that Bangladesh’s public administration has suffered institutional decline due to prolonged political influence, affecting governance standards at multiple levels.

“The country has experienced near collapse in various sectors, and public administration has not remained unaffected,” he said, adding that restoring a neutral and merit-based civil service is essential for strengthening state institutions.

Ismail Zabihullah said the government, under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, aims to establish an efficient, accountable and inclusive administrative system. He emphasised that public servants must serve citizens rather than exercise authority over them.

“We will present the people with an efficient, neutral and merit-based administration in line with the policy direction of the Prime Minister. Together, we will build a non-discriminatory, inclusive and corruption-free Bangladesh,” he said.

He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman for entrusting him with responsibilities related to the Ministry of Public Administration. Ismail Zabihullah, a resident of Kamalnagar upazila in Lakshmipur district, was making his first official visit to the area after assuming the advisory role.

Referring to the Prime Minister’s stated development agenda, he said the government is implementing a structured reform plan with close monitoring of administrative performance. He compared the leadership approach to that of a chief executive overseeing institutional operations to ensure accountability and execution.

The adviser said the recent general election had fundamentally shifted the political landscape, placing responsibility on the ruling Bangladesh Nationalist Party following its parliamentary majority. He described the electoral mandate as carrying significant accountability in delivering governance reforms.

“Our commitment to the people must now be reflected in our work. This victory carries responsibility,” he said.

Earlier in the day, Ismail Zabihullah was accorded a guard of honour by the district administration and later exchanged views with officials as well as local party representatives.

The government’s stated focus on public administration reform is expected to influence broader governance policy, including civil service restructuring, institutional accountability and anti-corruption measures.