Allegations have emerged that several old syndicates are once again becoming active at the Secretariat, the administrative heart of the capital. According to concerned officials, the presence of controversial journalists, lobbyists, and beneficiary groups has increased alarmingly in recent months. Sources within the administration claim that several networks that had remained inactive for a long period are now re-emerging under the new political reality.
In recent weeks, new faces have reportedly been seen frequently visiting various ministries and government offices within the Secretariat. Among them are several so-called journalists who had previously been accused of lobbying, abusing influence, and using political connections to gain personal advantages. Officials allege that many of these individuals enjoyed close ties with influential circles during the previous government and had regular access to the Secretariat. Although they remained largely inactive following the political transition, they have reportedly become active again in recent months.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, one government official said:
“Before August 5, some self-styled journalists used to roam around the Secretariat wielding considerable influence. They were involved in lobbying regarding transfers, recruitment, and government contracts. After August 5, they remained mostly out of sight for nearly one and a half years. However, within three months of the new government taking office following the February 12 election, their activities began increasing again.”
The official further stated that certain individuals are currently using their journalistic identity to gain unrestricted access to various ministries. In many cases, they attempt to exert influence by claiming close personal relationships with senior officials, creating discomfort and concern within the administration.
A fourth-class employee at the Secretariat alleged that some privately appointed individuals and unofficial aides surrounding ministers are facilitating meetings between these controversial journalists and ministers. According to him:
“Many people are now acting as brokers in the name of arranging meetings with ministers. Certain journalists are being introduced to ministers, after which they begin lobbying over files, recruitment matters, and business-related issues.”
There are also allegations that a long-standing Secretariat-based syndicate has become active once again. Multiple sources claim that this network includes dishonest officials, employees, self-proclaimed journalists, and influential outsiders working together to secure various benefits through undue influence in government offices.
Relevant stakeholders believe that many individuals entering the Secretariat under the identity of journalists are not genuinely involved in news gathering. Instead, they allegedly act on behalf of individuals or organizations to lobby government officials. Some are also accused of using political connections to pressure officials. Observers warn that such practices are damaging the environment for professional journalism while simultaneously undermining administrative transparency.
Several sources further stated that some controversial journalists have recently developed close connections with certain ministers. Their growing presence at official events, meetings, and informal discussions inside the Secretariat has already sparked internal criticism and debate. Many officials fear that such relationships could encourage greater opacity and unethical influence within the administration in the future.
However, no one has agreed to speak publicly on the matter. Many officials cited administrative pressure and personal security concerns as reasons for remaining silent. Some stated that individuals who previously spoke out against powerful syndicates had faced serious consequences, forcing many others to remain cautious.
Experts and organizations working on good governance and administrative transparency believe that authorities must strictly monitor who enters the Secretariat and for what purpose they maintain regular access. They also stressed the need for investigations into allegations of lobbying and influence-peddling carried out under the guise of journalism. Otherwise, there are fears that normal administrative operations could be disrupted.
Analysts argue that since the Secretariat is one of the most important centers of state administration, any form of uncontrolled lobbying, influence trading, or syndicate activity could prove harmful to the entire governance system. Therefore, they believe the relevant authorities should urgently investigate the matter and take necessary corrective measures.
The situation currently being discussed within various circles of the Secretariat has raised fresh concerns regarding administrative transparency and accountability. Observers warn that unless the allegations are properly investigated and effective action is taken promptly, the old culture of syndicate-based influence may once again establish a strong foothold within the administration.