A report published on August 19, 2026 alleges that Bangladesh’s ruling BNP has fallen short of its election pledge to build a merit-based, politically neutral public administration. The report says political considerations have shaped appointments across government agencies, institutions and offices during the government’s first six months. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman said on Tuesday that the government wants to give honest and skilled officials greater opportunities to work and build a people-friendly administration.

The report says 28 public universities received new vice-chancellors in the first six months, with teachers alleging that partisan affiliation was prioritized over merit and qualifications. It also cites concerns over appointments of party figures to senior posts in 11 agencies and institutions, as well as administrators in city corporations and district councils. Former cabinet secretary Ali Imam Majumder warned that broad political appointments could make the administration more controversial.

Transparency International Bangladesh Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman said appointments and removals in key institutions reflected a continuing culture of partisan dominance. Service recipients interviewed in eight districts alleged that bribery, corruption and delays in public offices remain widespread. The report also says recommendations from an administrative reform commission led by retired civil servant Abdul Muyeed Chowdhury have not yet been implemented.