Writ challenges validity of Dhaka WASA MD’s term extension

A writ petition has been filed challenging the validity of the process to extend the term of Taqsem A Khan for the sixth time after serving as the managing director (MD) of Dhaka Water Supply and Sewerage Authority (WASA) for 11 consecutive years.

Former additional chief engineer of Water Development Board Manjur Morshed filed the writ at the concerned branch of the High Court on Thursday.

Authorities concerned including the local government secretary have been made respondents to the writ.

Advocate Tanvir Ahmed, counsel for the petitioner, said, "The writ petition could be heard in the High Court bench headed by Justice JBM Hasan next week."

On September 19, WASA board recommended to send a proposal to the ministry to extend the tenure of Taqsem A Khan as MD of Dhaka WASA for another three years.

Taqsem A Khan was first appointed as the MD of Dhaka WASA in 2009. His term was then extended in four phases. His fifth term is coming to an end on October 14.

Last Thursday, a special board meeting of WASA was held to discuss sending a proposal to the ministry to appoint Taqsem A Khan for another three years.