The budget announcement ceremony for the fiscal year 2026-2027 of Trishal Municipality in Mymensingh was labeled as a 'public hearing,' but the actual presence of the general public was minimal. The event saw the attendance of municipal officers, political leaders, activists, and a few local journalists, but the participation of ordinary citizens was negligible.
Local Concerns and Criticisms
Local residents have expressed dissatisfaction, stating that the primary purpose of a public hearing is to gather public opinion, address their demands and issues, and consider these in budget formulation. The lack of public participation in this event has raised questions about its effectiveness and purpose.
Some attendees noted that no effective environment or opportunity was created to gather public opinion, making the event more of a formality rather than a genuine public hearing.
Public and Media Reactions
Shamim Azad Anwar, editor of Trishal Barta, expressed his frustration on Facebook, commenting on the empty chairs during the budget announcement and criticizing the event. Local journalist Saiful Alam Tuhin and media worker Monalisa Aktar also raised questions about the event's legitimacy and effectiveness in their Facebook posts.
Residents demand that future budget announcements should ensure public presence through extensive publicity and gather their opinions to truly achieve the purpose of a public hearing and formulate a participatory budget that reflects public expectations.
Municipal and Press Club Responses
Imran Hasan Bulbul, president of Trishal Press Club, stated that they were not aware of the budget announcement and public hearing event, nor were they invited or informed. He questioned whether the municipal administration understands the concept of a public hearing.
Trishal Municipality's executive officer, Naushin Ahmed, mentioned that she could not attend the budget event due to illness. Attempts to contact the municipality's administrator and Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Arafat Siddiqi for comments were unsuccessful as he did not answer multiple phone calls.
