Independent MP AK Azad on Monday (February 12, 2024) demanded a list of those who have laundered money abroad taking loans from banks be placed in Parliament.
Azad, who was elected MP for the first time, came up with the demand while participating in the discussion on the thanksgiving motion on the President’s speech.
He said that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is totally against corruption and Awami League's manifesto also cited that.
“First of all, good governance will have to be established in the banking sector,” Azad said.
Read more: Bangladesh Bank sets an 11-point roadmap to realise default loans
Welcoming Bangladesh Bank's roadmap for reforming the banking sector, Azad, also President of Newspapers Owners Association of Bangladesh (NOAB), said the amount of defaulted loans in Bangladesh is around Tk 1,45,633 crore.
“But in reality, the amount is much more. But through write off, the amount of debt is shown less. Those who have taken loans and invested in factories and failed to repay, may be exempted subject to investigation,” he said.
He demanded to bring to justice those who did not invest loan money in any business, and instead laundered the money.
“They made home at Begum Para, and second homes. Their list should be published in the parliament,” he demanded.
Read more: Bank MDs working under increased stress due to default loans, board interference: Experts
He also commented that Bangabandhu's dream will not be realised unless they are brought under the law.
The independent MP said that those who looted banks are responsible for the rise in commodity prices and inflation.
Azad said that he wants to be accountable to the countrymen and voters through this parliament.
Azad also said he wants to make the parliament effective and lively through constructive criticism of the government.
He expected cooperation of the Speaker in this regard.