We run on people’s taxes, so accountability must be ensured: Mirza Fakhrul

Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said ensuring accountability to citizens is a moral obligation, as the government operates with public tax money.

"We run on the people's taxes, so it is our ethical responsibility to ensure accountability to them," he said today (19 February) while addressing a views-exchange meeting at the conference room of the Local Government Division at the Secretariat.

"Strengthening state institutions does not simply mean fixing administrative structures, but restoring public trust. Effective institutions are the foundation of a strong and development-oriented state," he added.

The minister also said coordinated efforts from all stakeholders are essential to make the government's reform initiatives sustainable and fruitful.

Highlighting rural realities, Fakhrul said the suffering of village people is not merely an emotional issue but a social reality. "Alleviating their hardship is a shared responsibility of the state, society and conscious citizens. The government is working to gradually reduce rural distress through employment generation."

He further said, "Prime minister's clear message is to prioritise the improvement of law and order and strictly control corruption to restore peace and security in people's lives."

Calls for collective efforts to ensure accountability

Fakhrul also underscored the need for collective efforts to build an accountable and development-oriented state.

"Individuals, society and the state are inseparably connected. If we work as a united team, setting aside all differences, it will be possible to establish good governance and build a prosperous society," he said.

The minister noted that the government is implementing the prime minister's vision in a country currently facing economic challenges and a weakened state structure. He highlighted that over the past 15 years, many state institutions had become weak and ineffective, losing public confidence.

"To strengthen institutions is not merely about administrative restructuring; it is about restoring public trust. Effective institutions are the foundation of a strong and development-driven state," Fakhrul said.

On rural issues, he said the suffering of village communities is a social reality, not merely an emotional narrative. "Alleviating their hardship is a shared responsibility of the state, society and conscious citizens. The government is creating employment opportunities to gradually reduce rural distress."