Questions have been raised over the role of Umme Rehana, a Joint Secretary and an officer of the 20th BCS batch, amid allegations that efforts are being made to create instability in the country’s power sector. According to allegations circulating within the sector, Rehana has maintained close connections with influential figures of the previous Awami League government and benefited from various postings and administrative opportunities during that period. Critics have also questioned her professional record and alleged that she has relied more on political and administrative connections than on professional competence.

Rehana reportedly served for an extended period in the Finance Division and later became influential in the Administration and Policy Development (APD) wing of the Ministry of Public Administration. She also served in the Ministry of Health before being transferred to the Parliament Secretariat following allegations of irregularities. She subsequently worked on lien before joining the Power Division.

The allegations further claim that her transfer to the Power Division was facilitated by former Power Secretary Habibur Rahman and former State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Nasrul Hamid, allegedly through official recommendations.

Rehana also reportedly served as the Private Secretary to former State Minister for Labour and Employment Munnujan Sufian. Questions have been raised over how she secured such politically sensitive appointments. Critics have cited her family's alleged links with the Awami League and its affiliated student organization as part of the broader controversy surrounding her career.

Allegations of Interference in the Power Sector
The most serious allegations concern her alleged involvement in attempts to create instability in the power sector. It has been alleged that she has been quietly influencing officials and companies within the sector and encouraging actions that could aggravate the existing power situation.

These allegations, however, require independent investigation and documentary verification.

Questions have also been raised over her foreign travel with her daughter, including trips to Nepal and Australia, at a time when the power sector was facing significant challenges. Allegations of unnecessary foreign travel and possible financial irregularities have also surfaced. No independent evidence has been presented in support of these claims.

Questions Over Wealth and Administrative Influence
Sources familiar with the sector have also raised questions about Rehana's alleged accumulation of wealth and her influence over postings and appointments in power-sector companies.

According to the allegations, she has developed significant influence over distribution and generation companies and has played a role in the appointment of managing directors (MDs) and executive directors (EDs). Some officials have allegedly claimed that obtaining senior positions in these companies requires her approval or support.

These claims should be examined through official appointment records, financial disclosures and any relevant government investigation.

Controversy Surrounding DPDC
Her alleged role in the affairs of the Dhaka Power Distribution Company Limited (DPDC) has also attracted attention.

Critics claim that her influence has contributed to delays in appointing a managing director at DPDC. She reportedly served as a board member of the company for an extended period, during which allegations of irregular benefits and financial misconduct were raised against her.

There are also allegations that she maintained close relationships with individuals involved in controversial projects during the previous government and provided them with institutional protection. Claims regarding properties, including plots and flats allegedly acquired through illicit means, have also surfaced.

These allegations remain subject to verification.

Allegations Regarding Recruitment and Promotion
Questions have further been raised over her alleged involvement in promotions and appointments within power-sector companies.

One allegation concerns the appointment of the managing director of the West Zone Power Distribution Company Limited (WZPDCL). It has been claimed that as much as Tk 5 million (Tk 50 lakh) may have been involved in the appointment process and that Rehana was connected to the alleged transaction.

The allegation has not been independently established. A formal investigation into the appointment process, financial transactions and relevant communications could determine whether there was any wrongdoing.

It has also been alleged that Rehana had close ties with former Power Secretary Farzana Mamtaz and was involved in decisions concerning promotions and appointments during that period.

Questions Over Access to Sensitive Information
Another allegation concerns Rehana's purported access to sensitive information relating to major power-sector projects, including the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant.

Critics claim that confidential information may have been disclosed through her contacts. Given the sensitivity of nuclear-energy-related information, any such allegation would warrant appropriate investigation by the competent authorities.

Calls for an Investigation
The allegations have prompted questions about how an officer facing such a wide range of accusations continues to hold an influential position in the Power Division.

Critics also allege that Rehana has been able to operate independently of senior officials and has acquired considerable influence over decision-making within the sector.

However, allegations of political affiliation, corruption, financial misconduct, sabotage or disclosure of confidential information should not be treated as established facts without evidence.

A transparent investigation could examine her service records, appointment and promotion files, foreign-travel records, financial disclosures, property holdings, communications with power-sector companies and her role in major appointments.

Such an investigation would also clarify whether the allegations against her have any factual basis and determine whether any administrative or legal action is warranted.