Political Identity Verification in Govt Jobs Persists Despite Reform Recommendations

Political identity checks for government job recruitment and promotions remain an unspoken reality, with the practice persisting for decades. Despite the Public Administration Reform Commission’s recommendation to scrap it, implementation efforts are stalled, leaving merit-based candidates vulnerable to “adverse reports” from police or intelligence agencies.

Experts say the system undermines administrative neutrality and fosters fear, where even competent aspirants face discrimination. The commission, chaired by former Caretaker Government Adviser Abdul Mu’id Chowdhury, submitted its report to Chief Adviser Prof Dr Muhammad Yunus on February 5, 2024, after 90 days plus three extensions. The 17-chapter, 14-section document includes over 200 recommendations, including abolishing “political verification” in Chapter 9.

The report states, “The practice of police or intelligence agencies checking political identity for appointments and promotions should be abolished. Politicization in public administration starts at this level.”

It proposes that verification be limited to criminal records before final appointment, with no checks before written/oral exams. Passport, dual citizenship, or NGO board approvals should also drop political screening. The commission suggests short-term (six months), medium-term (one year), and long-term (over one year) implementation timelines.

Despite the recommendations, progress is nil. Sources in the Public Administration, Home, and Chief Adviser’s offices cite lack of coordination. Political parties and some administrative cadres oppose it, fearing it could allow “anti-state or extremist” individuals entry. No consensus has emerged.

Public Administration Ministry’s Appointment, Promotion, and Deputation wing Joint Secretary Rahima Akter said, “I’m unaware of any process starting.” Legislation wing Joint Secretary Md. Mostafa Zaman added, “No such rules have been drafted. It’s a new proposal.” Administration wing Joint Secretary Md. Towfique Imam echoed, “I don’t know about it.”

Governance experts argue the practice not only creates bias but fosters a culture of fear, stifling free expression. One official said, “This is sensitive. Without political consensus, implementation is tough. But for merit-based transparency, it’s essential.”