Dhaka: Local Government, Rural Development (LGRD) and Co-operatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir addressed Parliament today, alleging that the previous fascist regime engaged in extensive corruption under the guise of development. Responding to a supplementary question from opposition lawmaker Akhter Hossen from Rangpur-4 during the House’s question-answer session, Alamgir expressed regret over the significant corruption associated with mega projects during the previous government’s rule. He noted that this realization came after the current government assumed power one month ago.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Minister also highlighted the neglect of roads and streets in the northern region, which he described as unfortunate. Alamgir, who serves as the Secretary General of BNP, reassured the House that the current administration will not support such corruption in the future. He emphasized the government’s commitment to prioritizing rural roads and communication, stating, “InshaAllah, in the coming days, we will not tolerate any such corruption.”
In his inquiry, NCP lawmaker Aktar Hossen pointed out the hardships faced by rural populations due to deteriorating roads, attributing the neglect to the previous government’s focus on mega projects. Hossen questioned whether the new government would take action to improve rural infrastructure.
Responding to a further supplementary question from opposition Jamaat lawmaker Md Abdul Aleem of Bagerhat-4, the LGRD Minister stated that rural roads had not seen significant development due to corruption and nepotism during the fascist regime’s tenure. Alamgir mentioned that many rural roads remain unpaved, but the government has initiated efforts to upgrade them. “We have undertaken steps to pave the earthen (kachha) roads in phases,” he added.