Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) Thursday urged the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) to clear the air about the termination of Sharif Uddin – its deputy assistant director in Patuakhali.

The anti-corruption watchdog will suffer a deep crisis of credibility if it fails to dispel doubts and confusions centring on the removal of Sharif, TIB said.

"Also, such confusions and doubts will dishearten other ACC officials, working to fight corruption. This will ultimately weaken the institution," it added.

Media reports on the termination of Sharif caused negative reactions within and outside the ACC.

Also, officials and employees of the commission formed human chains, protesting his removal, TIB said.

While working in Chattogram, Sharif was instrumental in ACC's drives against corruption and filed many cases.

He unearthed massive corruption in land acquisition in Cox's Bazar, forgeries in issuance national identity cards and passports, and irregularities in Karnaphuli Gas Distribution Company.

The official became unpopular with vested interest groups involved in these crimes, TIB said.

Wednesday, the ACC terminated Sharif under section 54 (2) of Anti-Corruption Commission (Servants) Service Rules 2008.

The ACC has the right to remove any of its officials following service rules, but the anti-corruption watchdog should make it clear why it removed such a competent and courageous official as Sharif instead of protecting him, TIB said.