Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir. File Photo

DHAKA, March 13, 2026 (BSS) - Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today said the government will prioritize merit over recommendations or lobbying in all aspects of employment.

Fakhrul, also the Secretary General of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), made the remarks while addressing an iftar programme of the Thakurgaon Zilla Samity at the Krishibid Institute Auditorium in Farmgate this afternoon.

"Our young people are seeking jobs, but opportunities cannot be obtained through lobbying alone. We need to focus on self-employment, investment and developing small-scale entrepreneurship. Merit must be given priority instead of recommendations," he said.

He acknowledged that lobbying is sometimes unavoidable for postings, but emphasized that it should not be given the highest priority.

The LGRD minister also highlighted several development commitments for his constituency, including the establishment of a university in Thakurgaon, construction of a four-lane road and initiatives to improve local livelihoods.

Thakurgaon Zilla Samity members, along with political and social figures, attended the programme.