Rangpur, Sep 08 (V7N) - According to Panel Mayor Mahbubur Rahman Manju, Lalmonirhat city’s municipal services are running smoothly despite the absence of 5 to 6 councillors due to political reasons. The absence is linked to ongoing legal issues involving 6 to 7 councillors affiliated with the Awami League, who are currently being substituted by female councillors and the panel mayor in their wards.
 
During a press conference held at the Rangpur City Corporation on Saturday afternoon, Panel Mayor Manju stated that there has been no disruption in city services, despite recent media reports suggesting otherwise.
 
“We have seen various reports in both print and social media claiming that the former Mayor Mostafizur Rahman is missing, councillors are absent, and citizen services are failing. However, many can attest that the mayor was not absent. We have been operating normally, even on days off. The reports suggesting otherwise are inaccurate. The mayor's departure was due to regulatory requirements, not any form of corruption or misconduct. All mayors across city corporations had to step down according to the rules. The significant role of the Rangpur mayor in recent protests cannot be denied,” said Manju.
 
He also addressed concerns about the absence of several councillors, stating, “We reject and condemn these claims. Out of the 34 to 35 councillors, a few are missing due to political reasons. The identities of these councillors are well known. Nonetheless, female councillors and the panel mayor have been fulfilling their duties, and all councillors present are ensuring that services are continuously provided without interruption.”
 
Manju further explained that administrative responsibilities are being handled by the newly appointed administrator, Division Commissioner Md. Zakir Hossain, despite a legal case against him. The city’s services have continued without interruption.
 
He clarified that there has been misinformation suggesting a lack of services and inactivity at the administrator’s office following the mayor’s departure. The mayor ensured a smooth transition by immediately informing the Division Commissioner to assume his duties, and all councillors and office staff were present during this period.
 
The panel mayor announced that a hotline has been established for citizens to report issues or seek assistance from 9 AM to midnight daily at 01332-566301. Complaints and suggestions are addressed promptly to resolve any issues.
 
Additionally, it was reported at the press conference that the plaintiff in the case against Division Commissioner Md. Zakir Hossain, Ms. Dilruba Akhter, has filed an affidavit requesting the removal of the commissioner’s name from the case.
 
The press conference also featured responses from Chief Property Officer Mousumi Afrida, Councillors Liton Parvez, Hasna Banu, Abu Hasan Chanchal, Mizanur Rahman Mizu, administrative officer Syed Mohammad Jahangir Kabir Shanto, and other officials addressing various queries from journalists.
 
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