Speculation Mounts Over New CDA Chairman Appointment

A new chairman of the Chattogram Development Authority (CDA) may be appointed soon, raising fresh discussion over who will lead the key urban development body.

Sources indicate that the government is considering replacing the current chairman, Engineer Md. Nurul Karim, before his term ends. Although no official announcement has been made, the issue is already drawing attention in political circles.

Names of several BNP leaders are being discussed informally. However, no shortlist has been confirmed.

People familiar with the matter say earlier governments often appointed leaders linked to Chattogram metropolitan politics. This time, the approach may differ. The current administration is reportedly reviewing leadership positions across institutions, with emphasis on clean image, past contributions to political movements, and former student leadership.

Among those being mentioned is former general secretary of Chattogram Metropolitan BNP Abul Hashem Bakkar. He, however, has said he is not interested in taking up any institutional role.

“I have worked for the party during difficult times and want to continue contributing politically,” he said.

Other names discussed include Nazimur Rahman, Niaz Mohammad Khan, Shawkat Azam Khawaja, Yasin Chowdhury Liton, Ahmed ul Alam Chowdhury Russell, and Colonel Azim Ullah Bahar.

Since 2009, the CDA chairman position—equivalent to joint secretary rank—has largely been filled through contractual political appointments.

During the Awami League government, Abduch Salam served as chairman for nearly a decade. Later, following a legal update in 2018 to the Chattogram Development Authority Ordinance, the tenure was limited to two terms.

Zahirul Alam Dobash was appointed in 2019 and served two terms. In April 2024, Mohammad Yunus took over but was removed within four months after the political change in August. The interim government later appointed Engineer Nurul Karim on September 2, 2024.

Officials say a final decision on new leadership may come soon.