Political support belongs at ballot box, not govt offices: PM

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said government officials may personally support any political party, but such support must be reflected at the ballot box, not in government offices.

He made the remarks while addressing the closing ceremony of the 81st Foundation Training Course at the Bangladesh Public Administration Training Centre (BPATC) in Savar on Sunday (November 8).

“Personally, I do not consider it wrong for administrative officials to support any political party. However, support for any political party must be reflected at the ballot box, not in government offices,” he said.

The prime minister said his government was implementing a political agenda through the administration, but the agenda had received public endorsement through the electoral process.

Urging newly trained officials to serve with honesty, dedication and sincerity, he warned against compromising professional integrity for preferred postings or promotions. He said officials should remain prepared to serve in any position anywhere in the country.

Tarique also called on public servants to ensure that citizens seeking services at government offices were not harassed. He stressed the importance of following the law while treating service recipients with humanity and respect.