Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Chairman Mohammad Abdul Momen has sought cooperation from the people to bulid a corruption-free society.
Speaking at a public hearing held at the Lalmonirhat Zilla Parishad Auditorium on Monday, he said that while everyone claims to oppose corruption, the presence of corruption remains a challenge.
"Hundred percent of people say they do not want corruption, so how can there still be corruption?", Momen questioned, urging the public to actively cooperate with the ACC in identifying corrupt people for action.
He acknowledged that the ACC itself has bad reputation but reiterated that the commission would take decisive steps if provided with public support.
The public hearing, which focused on the theme "Rukhbo Durniti, Gorbo Desh Hobe Sopner Bangladesh" (We will eliminate corruption, and make the country the Bangladesh of our dreams), was organised by the Integrated District Anti-Corruption Commission in Lalmonirhat, in collaboration with the district administration.
Momen also pointed out that while many government officials are honest, some fail to act effectively, which is detrimental to progress.
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"This is also unacceptable," he remarked, emphasisng that the current government, led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus, is a corruption-free government.
He mentioned that in the past, bribes even had to be given to the Prime Minister's Office.
He further stressed the importance of sincerity among officials in preventing institutional corruption and urged that the needs of service recipients should always be prioritised. "Every project should be Bangladesh-friendly, not contractor-friendly," he added.
Reflecting on his experience attending public hearings, Momen said that many of the issues raised are not long-term challenges. "If we are committed, we can solve these problems immediately," he said.
ACC Commissioner Mia Muhammad Ali Akbar Aziji, Lalmonirhat Superintendent of Police Tariqul Islam, and other officials were also present.
Lalmonirhat Deputy Commissioner HM Rakib Haider chaired the event.
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During the hearing, a total of 106 complaints were filed against 33 government institutions in the district.
Service providers present at the event were instructed to address several of the complaints promptly.