corruption
Photos of ex-NBR official Matiur with Bangladesh Bank governor go viral on social media
Photos of former National Board of Revenue (NBR) official Matiur Rahman, recently at the center of corruption allegations, with Bangladesh Bank Governor Abdur Rouf Talukder have gone viral on social media, sparking widespread discussion.
One viral photo shows the two men in Ihram during the Hajj pilgrimage, while another captures Matiur greeting Rouf with a bouquet of flowers at the governor's office in the central bank.
Read more: Matiur removed from NBR post after goat purchase scandal
Matiur Rahman was appointed as a director of Sonali Bank on February 1, 2022. At that time, Abdur Rouf Talukder was serving as the finance secretary.
Some media outlets have questioned the Bangladesh Bank governor through the central bank’s spokesperson, Mezbaul Haque. The inquiry focused on the governor’s comments regarding Matiur's appointment as a director of Sonali Bank during his tenure as finance secretary and the allegations of anonymous stock market investments through Matiur.
Responding to the media, Bangladesh Bank spokesperson Mezbaul Haque conveyed the governor's statement, asserting that the allegations are not true.
Read more: Ex-NBR member Matiur removed from Sonali Bank board
Fakhrul’s remark on Benazir “sneaking off”: Quader refers to Tarique Rahman’s lavish lifestyle abroad
Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader today (June 02, 2024) said that authorities will proceed with corruption charges against former police chief Benazir Ahmed. Should he be found guilty, he will be compelled to return to Bangladesh, he said.
Speaking at a press conference at the Awami League president’s office in Dhanmondi this afternoon, Quader emphasized the government’s firm stance against corruption, saying, “No leniency will be shown.”
Quader, who is also the General Secretary of Awami League, detailed that the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) is actively investigating Benazir’s case. “The investigation, legal proceedings, and potential arrests are all part of a legal process,” he said. The government will not bypass the ACC to take any premature actions. If there are any failures within the anti-corruption agencies, they too will face scrutiny, said the AL leader.
Fakhrul questions how Benazir “sneaked off to Singapore”
Highlighting the current administration’s commitment to combating corruption, Quader remarked, “Since 1975, no other government has shown the courage to act against corrupt individuals. Sheikh Hasina’s government has demonstrated this bravery. While individuals may commit corruption, it is the government’s stance against such actions that matters.”
Quader also criticized Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) for its inaction against corruption during its tenure. “BNP didn’t take any measures against corruption while in power,” he said.
Addressing allegations from BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir that Benazir fled abroad with government assistance, Quader retorted, “Who from the government escorted him to the plane? Which authority facilitated his departure? Do not throw around baseless accusations.”
Govt bears responsibility for misdeeds of Aziz, Benazir: Fakhrul
Quader also accused BNP of initiating a culture of financial misconduct. “The culture of money laundering and economic misappropriation began during the BNP’s era. When in power, BNP leaders indulged in rampant illegal earnings. This is an established fact both domestically and internationally. After coming to power in 2001, corruption became institutionalized under the BNP, leading to Bangladesh being named the most corrupt country five times consecutively. Convicted and fugitive BNP leader Tarique Rahman is currently leading a lavish lifestyle abroad with the illicit money.”
Quader read from a written statement at the beginning of the press conference, asserting the integrity of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. “No one can claim that our Prime Minister has engaged in or tolerated corruption. Sheikh Hasina is recognized globally as a thoroughly honest politician, whose popularity stems from her hard work and honest living.”
He further criticized the BNP, saying, “BNP’s main leader Tarique Rahman is a convicted fugitive and a known criminal. A party led by such an individual cannot work for people’s welfare or gain their trust.”
In response to a journalist’s question, Quader remarked, “BNP is ruled by the king of thieves.”
Read more: Why Aziz, Benazir yet to be arrested, asks Manna
No complacency on US sanctions against Aziz: Fakhrul warns party colleagues
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Tuesday cautioned opposition leaders and activists against complacency regarding US sanctions on former Army Chief General Aziz Ahmed.
Speaking at a discussion, he urged the BNP followers to focus on unseating the Awami League government through their own efforts rather than relying on others.
“If I can't manage my own house, no one else will do it for me. Many may be happy over the sanctions on Aziz...I think it’s misleading and we’re always getting confused," Fakhrul said.
He recalled that the US also imposed sanctions earlier on RAB and the officers of the elite force and the police but it could not stop the ‘terrible journey’ of the current regime.
“We have to stand on our own feet, stand with our own strength and defeat them with our own strength,” he said.
A faction of Jatiya Gonotantrik Party (Jagpa) arranged the programme at Dhaka Reporters’ Unity (DRU) marking the seventh death anniversary of the party founder Shafiul Alam Prodhan.
The US Department of State on Monday imposed sanctions on Aziz Ahmed and his immediate family members due to “his involvement in significant corruption".
Fakhrul said BNP and the entire world have long been saying that the government has been deeply mired in corruption. "They deny it and claim they don’t indulge in corruption. Now, you see today's news that the US has imposed sanctions on former Army Chief General Aziz Ahmed along with his family."
He said the reasons behind the sanctions on Aziz involve indulging in corruption, influencing democratic institutions, and eroding people's trust. "This is what we've been trying to say for a long time."
The BNP leader accused the government of committing various misdeeds one after another by using the state machinery.
He also alleged that the government has created a reign of terror and spread fear with its efforts to use the military, the judiciary and the administration.
Even, the BNP leader said journalists now cannot write reports freely as they have to think carefully about every word they choose, fearing jail or lawsuits. “This is the current situation of the country."
He said many times it is wrongly interpreted that the BNP wants to engage in ousting the government. "We want to get back the right to vote, and through that votes, we will defeat you (govt). All of us must be willing to make more sacrifices to have that right restored."
Fakhrul called upon the opposition leaders and workers to be united further to take to the streets against the government. “There is no alternative to taking to the streets. We don’t know any other path. We must come forward openly and fight (against the govt)."
Stating that BNP is not a radical or revolutionary party, he said their party, as a liberal democratic one, must create such an atmosphere where the government will not be able to block a free, fair and credible election. "No one else will do that for us...we have to achieve that ourselves." We must be more united in demanding fair and impartial elections, and we must intensify the movement.”
The BNP leader said their party has been working with its alliance partners to work out the strategy of their movement and strengthen their strength to get rid of the current monstrous regime.
US decision against former army chief Gen Aziz not under visa policy: Foreign Minister
Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud has said that the government of Bangladesh has taken a zero tolerance policy on combating corruption and will continue to work with the United States on this issue.
“For combating corruption, we are working with the US. We want to work together and will continue to do that," he told reporters.
Hasan was speaking at a “meet the reporters” programme today (May 21, 2024) organised by Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU).
DRU President Syed Shukur Ali Shuvo and General Secretary Mohiuddin also spoke at the event.
Responding to a question, the Foreign Minister said the US decision against former army chief General Aziz Ahmed was not under the visa policy.
Ex Army chief Aziz, his immediate family members ineligible for entry into US
It was made under Section 7031(c) of the annual Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act.
The Foreign Minister said Bangladesh remains engaged with the US and the two countries are working together on combating terrorism, human trafficking and other issues.
He said the decision regarding the ex army chief was first conveyed to the Bangladesh Embassy in Washington.
The US Department of State on Monday announced the public designation of General Aziz Ahmed, previously Chief of the Bangladesh Army Staff, due to what it says was his involvement in "significant corruption".
This action renders Aziz and his immediate family members generally ineligible for entering the United States.
His actions have contributed to the undermining of Bangladesh’s democratic institutions and the public’s faith in public institutions and processes, the US State Department said.
"Aziz Ahmed engaged in significant corruption by interfering in public processes while helping his brother evade accountability for criminal activity in Bangladesh," said the US Department of State.
Aziz also worked closely with his brother to ensure the improper awarding of military contracts and accepted bribes in exchange for government appointments for his personal benefit, it claimed.
"This designation reaffirms the US commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and rule of law in Bangladesh," said the US government.
Read more: Someone “paid by BNP” is deployed at US State Dept briefings: Hasan Mahmud
Ex Army chief Aziz, his immediate family members ineligible for entry into US
The U.S. Department of State has announced the public designation of former General Aziz Ahmed, previously Chief of the Bangladesh Army Staff, due to what it says his involvement in "significant corruption".
This action renders Aziz and his immediate family members generally ineligible for entry into the United States.
His actions have contributed to the undermining of Bangladesh’s democratic institutions and the public’s faith in public institutions and processes, it said
"Aziz Ahmed engaged in significant corruption by interfering in public processes while helping his brother evade accountability for criminal activity in Bangladesh," said the US Department of State.
Read more: Australia FM to discuss climate change, regional maritime security, bilateral issues with PM Hasina, FM Tuesday
Aziz also worked closely with his brother to ensure the improper awarding of military contracts and accepted bribes in exchange for government appointments for his personal benefit, the Srate Department claimed.
"This designation reaffirms the U.S. commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and rule of law in Bangladesh," said the US government.
The United States supports anticorruption efforts in Bangladesh through assistance to make government services more transparent and affordable, improve the business and regulatory environment, and build capacity in investigating and prosecuting money laundering and other financial crimes.
These public designations are made under Section 7031(c) of the annual Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act.
Read more: Bangladeshi students in Kyrgyzstan capital are safe: Foreign Minister
Will protest corruption and speak up for the oppressed in the Parliament: Barrister Sumon
Barrister Syed Sayedul Haque Sumon, who has been elected as an independent candidate from Habiganj-4 constituency, said that he will protest corruption and speak up for the oppressed in the Parliament, the same way he has been doing so far.
He said this after taking oath as an MP at Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban at 11:30 am today (January 10, 2024).
Also read: Barrister Sumon crushes incumbent state minister for civil aviation and tourism
“My role will remain the same as before. Protesting against corruption, speaking up for oppressed people and realising Bangabandhu’s Sonar Bangla,” Barrister Sumon said.
When asked what challenges he might face, he said, “Not one or two. No one wants to work in Bangladesh. Still, if Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina considers me, I will be able to do a lot of work,” he said.
Also read: Newly elected MPs are sworn in by Speaker
“You’re only an MP for five years. If I perform poorly, people will throw me out,” he said.
Barrister Sumon thinks that he has been given a responsibility by the people for five years.
Nasir Hossain barred from domestic cricket amid ICC’s corruption allegations
All-rounder Nasir Hossain has been temporarily prohibited from participating in domestic cricket following allegations of corruption by the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Sources within the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) have confirmed that Nasir must await ICC clearance before resuming his domestic cricket career.
The players' draft for the upcoming season of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) is slated for September 24th. However, Nasir's name does not appear on the list of players released by the BCB.
HC accepts appeal challenging suspension order of DSA case against Nasir’s wife Tamima
The right-handed all-rounder participated in a T20 league in the UAE in 2021, where he, along with other players, allegedly engaged in unethical practices, according to the ICC.
Case against cricketer Nasir: Order on charge framing on Feb 9
Nasir Hossain’s last international match dates back to 2018, after which he has been absent from the national squad. He represented the Tigers in a total of 19 Tests, 65 ODIs, and 31 T20Is.
Cricketer Nasir, wife Tamima get bail
Sanctions, freezing assets, giving partner nations intel can be tools to fight corruption: US State Dept
The United States has encouraged Bangladesh to “root out corrupt actors,” operating within its borders “fairly and impartially.”
“Generally speaking, sanctions can be a tool to fight corruption,” US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters in a regular briefing in Washington on August 8.
He said they have other tools as well, such as freezing assets and giving partner nations information so they can prosecute cases.
Read: US prioritizing global anti-corruption efforts, to focus on business aspects in future: US official tells foreign secretary
Responding to a question on demand for free and fair election, Miller said they have made it clear several times that the US supports free and fair elections in Bangladesh.
“We’ve made that clear publicly. We’ve made that clear in conversations with the Bangladeshi Government, and that will continue to be our policy,” he said.
The US Department of State’s Coordinator on Global Anti-Corruption, Richard Nephew, echoed the same regarding sanctions to address corruption during his Bangladesh visit on August 6-8.
Read: Bangladesh can draw more investment if corruption remains less prevalent: Peter Haas
During his visit, Nephew met government officials, businesspersons, and civil society leaders to discuss how to fight the scourge of corruption.
Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen, after his meeting with Nephew, said that Bangladesh laid emphasis on more transparency and accountability over issues involving money laundering, noting that in most cases Bangladesh does not get required feedback when it comes to mutual legal assistance.
Read: Public Service Commission was plagued by corruption, depriving meritorious candidates during BNP-Jamaat govt: Sajeeb Wazed
The US has invited Bangladesh to attend the 20th anniversary of the UN Convention Against Corruption in Atlanta in December this year. The foreign secretary said Bangladesh will take part in the meeting where the host US will seek renewed commitment from the participating countries or institutions to jointly tackle global corruption.
WB had brought false allegations against Bangladesh govt, PM tells JS
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday (June 7, 2023) said that the World Bank has realised that they had brought false allegations against the government of Bangladesh regarding corruption in the Padma Bridge project.
“The World Bank has realised that they brought false allegations against us,” she said while responding to a tabled question from Jatiya Party MP elected from Dhaka Syed Abu Hossain.
With reference to her recent visit in the World Bank’s headquarters in Washington DC, Hasina said that during a discussion there, she once again expressed her resentment regarding the World Bank’s purposely bringing false allegations of corruption in the Padma Bridge construction project.
“ (In my speech) I firmly mentioned that I will never patronise any evil purpose, which will diminish the dignity of the people of Bangladesh,” she said.
Read more: External forces won’t put BNP in power, they would rather use it against govt: PM Hasina
In reply to a query of Awami League MP Kazim Uddin, the Prime Minister informed the House that the amount of foodgrains stocked in the country at present (as of May) in the country is 16.27 lakh tonnes.
“Of the total foodgrains, the amount of rice is 12.25 lakh tonnes, wheat is 3.96 lakh tonnes and paddy is 9,000 tonnes,” she said.
Hasina, also the Leader of the House, said in the current boro season, a total of 15.10 lakh tonnes of foodgrains including 4 lakh tonnes of rice and 12.50 lakh tonnes of rice have been set as a target to increase the food stock.
The domestic wheat procurement target has been set at 1 lakh tonnes for the financial year 2022-23.
Read more: PM Hasina remembers Bangabandhu on historic six-point day
The Prime Minister said that 6.34 lakh tonnes of rice and 6.80 lakh tonnes of wheat have been imported in the current financial year so far (as of 23 May, 2023) to ensure maximum food security in the country.
In response to a query from Awami League MP Ali Azam, Hasina said that ‘Geological Survey and Seismic Survey’ activities have been strengthened in new areas of the country.
While replying to a query of JP MP Mashiur Rahman Ranga, the Prime Minister said that Bangladesh will not get duty-free and quota-free benefits for exporting goods to India after 2026 as a result of its removal from the list of least developed countries.
“This may have a negative impact on the export of goods to India,” she added.
Read more: Electricity problem to end in 10-15 days: PM Hasina
Taking this into consideration, initiatives have been taken to execute the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with India, the premier said.
“It is still in the negotiation stage. If CEPA is signed, Bangladesh's exports to India are likely to increase by 190 percent. It is expected to increase the GDP by 1.72 percent,” she hoped.
In response to a query of AL MP Momtaz Begum, the premier said that currently there are 1.20 crore expatriates working in 174 countries of the world.
Read more: PM mourns death of valiant freedom fighter Nurul Islam Khan
Indonesian IT minister arrested for alleged corruption in procurement
Indonesian authorities on Wednesday arrested the information technology minister as part of an investigation into a million-dollar corruption scandal linked to the construction of mobile phone transmission towers in remote regions.
Communication and Information Technology Minister Johnny G. Plate was arrested after showing up for questioning at the Attorney General’s Office, said Kuntadi, the director of investigation at the prosecutor's office.
If he is formally charged, it may further tarnish President Joko Widodo’s credibility when it comes to fighting corruption. Four other members of Widodo’s Cabinet have been sentenced to prison terms in corruption cases, casting a shadow over his efforts to clean up government while he looks for a successor when his term ends in 2024.
Footage showed Plate leaving the prosecutor's office in handcuffs and wearing a detainee red vest. He did not respond to journalists' questions.
This was the third time Plate was summoned since mid-February by investigators digging deep into his supervisory role in allocation of state funds for the construction of base transceiver stations, said Kuntadi, who goes by a single name like many Indonesians.
The project was initiated at the end of 2020 to handle more than 7,900 blank spots in mobile coverage in Indonesia’s outermost, underdeveloped and remote areas of Papua, Sulawesi, Borneo, Sumatra and East Nusatenggara. It's due to be completed this year, and so far, 4,200 locations have received the equipment, the ministry’s data showed.
The corruption case is believed to have cost the state 8 trillion rupiah ($539 million), said Muhammad Yusuf Ateh, head of the development finance control at the prosecutor's office. He said the losses included fictitious payments for the base stations that have not been built.
Plate was apprehended along with five other suspects, including three from the private sector, after some 60 people were questioned about the procurement process.
His arrest also sparked speculation over the fate of his Nasdem party, which is part of the government coalition with seven others. Nasdem had earlier endorsed a popular opposition politician, Anies Baswedan, as a presidential candidate in 2024. Widodo has referred to the party as an “outsider” in the coalition.