Suraiya Akter new Dhaka North administrator as Azaz's contract not renewed

The interim government has appointed a new administrator to the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC), as the contract of the previous administrator Mohammad Azaz was not renewed. 

Local Government Division Additional Secretary Suraiya Akter Jahan has been appointed as the new administrator, according to a gazette notification, signed by Mahbuba Irene, joint secretary of the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives, issued today (9 February).

In February last year, Azaz was made the Dhaka North administrator on a full-time basis for a one-year term.

According to DNCC, his contract has not been renewed, leading to Suraiya's appointment.

Azaz, the chairman of River and Delta Research Centre, has faced controversy in recent times over various allegations. He is also facing a corruption investigation.

On 1 February this year, a Dhaka court imposed a travel ban on Azaz following allegations of widespread corruption, bribery, and abuse of power.

Court bars Dhaka North Administrator Azaz from leaving country

According to the Anti-Corruption Commission, a probe is currently underway regarding a series of irregularities attributed to the administrator.

These include the controversial lease of the Gabtoli cattle market, the implementation of the e-rickshaw project, and the alleged occupation of Borak Tower, also known as Hotel Sheraton.

Furthermore, Azaz faces accusations regarding the allocation of shops at the Banani kitchen market, the construction and distribution of shops in the parking area of the Khilgaon Taltola Super Market, mismanagement of the city corporation's van service, and the irregular allocation of stalls on footpaths.

The court was informed that the anti-graft body had previously summoned the administrator to its Segunbagicha office on 29 January to record his statement, but he failed to appear.