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THE ongoing spate of protests by officials and employees, along with the resulting disruption in services and administrative activities across various government offices, is a cause for concern. These protests highlight fundamental issues with the government’s approach to implementing reforms and amending existing laws. On May 25, government officials and political activists staged demonstrations and sit-ins at major administrative hubs, including the Bangladesh Secretariat, the National Board of Revenue headquarters, and the Dhaka South City Corporation head office. These actions led to an almost complete suspension of services and administrative functions. Government employees demonstrated for a second consecutive day at the Bangladesh Secretariat, the nation’s administrative centre, demanding the withdrawal of the draft Government Service (Amendment) Ordinance 2025, which the government promulgated that day amid protests. This ordinance, issued by the interim government, was labelled ‘repressive’ by demonstrators, who objected to provisions enabling the dismissal of government employees for minor infractions without due process. In response, the ministry of public administration restructured a 10-member committee to review the employees’ demands, while the home affairs adviser expressed hope that the situation could be resolved through dialogue.

At the NBR headquarters, protests have continued over the May 12 ordinance that proposes dissolving the current revenue board and splitting it into two divisions — the Revenue Administration Division and the Revenue Policy Division — under the finance ministry purportedly to modernise tax administration and increase revenue collection. NBR officials and employees observed a full-day work stoppage for the second day on May 25, both at the Agargaon headquarters and at regional offices, causing a complete disruption to the NBR activities at Dhaka office and across the country. Protesters argue that the reforms were introduced without adequate consultation and fail to reflect their input or concerns. They also fear the move could devalue experienced personnel, weaken accountability, reduce technical efficiency and lead to increased politicisation by placing revenue administration directly under the finance ministry. The work strike was, however, later suspended following government assurances to address key concerns. Meanwhile, services at the DSCC head office were also halted, causing distress to service-seekers. This disruption was triggered by a sit-in led by supporters of BNP leader Ishraque Hossain — recognised as the mayor-elect by court order — and a large contingent of DSCC employees. They demanded that mayoral responsibilities be officially handed over to Hossain.

These incidents underscore a significant flaw in the government’s reform process. While reforms are essential for progress, their success depends on inclusive, transparent and consultative policymaking. The government should, therefore, actively engage all relevant stakeholders, heed their suggestions and address their grievances before implementing any significant changes. Without this, even well-intentioned reforms risk failure and public backlash.