TIB: PM's announcement against corruption timely

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has considered Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s statement against corruption as a stern indicator and timely.

TIB made the comment in a statement sent to the media on Monday.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Sunday announced that zero tolerance will be maintained against corruption.

In the statement, it is said: "Recently, many incidents have come to light where individuals have become owners of huge wealth through corruption, by exploiting their positions or power structure."

In this context, during a press conference on Sunday, the prime minister disclosed information that a former employee of her residence had become the owner of Tk400 crore through corruption.

She has informed the countrymen that she has taken action in this incident.

In the context of the prime minister's stance against corruption, TIB's Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman mentioned: "Through this, instances have come to light where individuals have illegally amassed wealth and assets by misusing their positions or connections with the government and other high offices. This has led to expressions of anger and concern by the prime minister. Measures have been taken against that employee."

The prime minister's announcement is very important and realistic for the government and related institutions to bring to justice those who collect huge wealth through corruption, said TIB’s executive director.

A former employee of the prime minister's residence owns Tk400 crore and could not move without a helicopter according to the information provided by the prime minister. It would be a disgrace to the Head of Government if it fails to ensure exemplary punishment when his financial assets are found to be inconsistent with the legitimate sources subject to ACC inquiry, he added.

Because the prime minister has drawn attention to the legal obligation and political conviction to ensure justice for those accused of corruption.

Similarly, in the context of the discussed events, the central characters, especially the former army chief, former police and RAB chief, and former National Board of Revenue official, including all high-ranking persons, should be ensured exemplary accountability subject to a fair and conflict-of-interest investigation of corruption allegations.

"The prime minister has completely substantiated the baseless notion that 'allegations of corruption will damage the government's reputation' with entirely unfounded evidence,” he mentioned.

"In this context, we urge the government to adopt a clear roadmap aimed at effectively implementing the prime minister's stated remarks and the election manifesto of the ruling political party and ensuring accountability in the face of escalating corruption and impunity which will pave the way to alleviate the anxiety and apprehension arising in the public mind," he further added.