Dhaka, Nov. 11 -- Despite repeated calls for administrative reform, much of the bureaucracy reportedly remains dominated by contractual officials, leaving career officials disheartened over limited decision-making power and stalled promotions.
"From the Cabinet Secretary and Principal Secretary to the Secretary of the Ministry of Public Administration, at least 20 key ministries and departments are currently headed by secretaries on contract," said a frustrated official wishing anonymity. Even within the seven-member Superior Selection Board (SSB) which recommends promotions, four of them are contractual appointees, he said.
Many of these officials, he said, have returned to the administration after spending nearly a decade away, creating...