Govt will prioritise merit over lobbying in all sectors: Fakhrul

Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Friday said the government would prioritise merit instead of lobbying in all sectors.

He made the remarks while addressing an iftar gathering organised by the Thakurgaon District Association at the Krishibid Institution auditorium in the capital’s Farmgate area in the afternoon.

Fakhrul said many young people are roaming around looking for jobs, but such efforts alone will not secure employment.

“Our young people keep searching for jobs everywhere. Jobs will not come this way; in many cases it is almost impossible. That is why we must create opportunities for self-employment, invest and work with small entrepreneurial initiatives,” he said.

He stressed the importance of giving priority to merit, saying people often try to secure benefits through personal influence.

“We always say someone is our brother or acquaintance and request others to put in a word for us. But merit must be given priority,” he added.

The BNP Secretary General said he spends a significant portion of his day dealing with requests for lobbying, particularly regarding postings and transfers.

“Believe me, from 9am to 12am I receive requests for lobbying, mostly related to postings and similar matters,” he said.

He noted that such matters may sometimes be necessary but warned against giving them undue importance.

“If we make these issues the main priority, it will create problems,” he said.

Fakhrul also said the government would implement several commitments aimed at improving development in his home district Thakurgaon, including establishing a university, constructing four-lane roads and improving infrastructure to enhance the living standards of local people.

He criticised the creation of divisions in the name of the association and called on everyone to work together in unity.

Members of the Thakurgaon District Association and different political and social personalities were present at the programme.