Speaker of the Jatiya Sangsad, Hafiz Uddin Ahmad. Photo: Collected

DHAKA, May 4, 2026 (BSS) - Speaker of the Jatiya Sangsad, Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, 
Bir Bikram, today said that bureaucrats must act as servants of the people 
rather than rulers in order to make democracy meaningful.

He said deputy commissioners play a significant role in establishing 
democracy in the country, as they serve as returning officers in every 
national election. 

Referring to the past, the Speaker said the election system during the 
previous 16 years under the Awami League government was marked by 
unprecedented corruption and irregularities. He stressed that deputy 
commissioners can play a strong role in ensuring free and fair elections, 
including parliamentary polls, said a press release.

The Speaker made these remarks while addressing the 'Deputy Commissioners' 
Conference 2026', organized by the Cabinet Division at the oath room of the 
Jatiya Sangsad, as the chief guest.

He said the state bureaucracy must perform its duty properly to make 
democracy effective, adding that in the days ahead, officials must adopt a 
service-oriented mindset.

Highlighting the democratic aspirations of the people, he said the people of 
Bangladesh are deeply committed to democracy, which has been restored through 
immense sacrifices and struggles. From 1971 to 2024, the sacrifices made by 
ordinary people in every democratic movement remain unparalleled, he added.

At the beginning of the event, Secretary of the Jatiya Sangsad Secretariat 
Barrister Md Golam Sarwar Bhuiyan delivered the welcome address.

Speaking on behalf of the deputy commissioners, Deputy Commissioner of 
Rangamati Nazma Ashrafi, Deputy Commissioner of Bogura Md Toufiqur Rahman, 
and Divisional Commissioner of Rajshahi A.N.M. Bazlur Rashid also spoke on 
the occasion.

Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Ghani delivered the vote of thanks.

Deputy Speaker Barrister Kayser Kamal said parliament is the center of 
democracy, and democratic debate strengthens rather than weakens it. Laws 
passed in parliament are implemented by the executive, he added.

Chief Whip Nurul Islam said deputy commissioners act as a bridge between the 
government and the people, and their role is vital in implementing central 
policies and programmes at the field level.

The Speaker later exchanged views with deputy commissioners and divisional 
commissioners from different districts and took part in a photo session.

Senior officials from the Cabinet Division, Jatiya Sangsad Secretariat, along 
with deputy commissioners and divisional commissioners, were present at the 
event.