ACC to closely review affidavits of all election candidates: Chairman

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has begun closely examining the election affidavits of all candidates participating in the 13th national parliamentary election, the ant-graft watchdog Chairman Dr Mohammad Abdul Momen said on Monday, reports UNB.

"The asset declarations submitted by the candidates would be thoroughly scrutinised to identify any inconsistencies or suspicious information," he said while addressing a views-exchange meeting with the newlyelected committee of Reporters Against Corruption (RAC) at the ACC headquarters in the capital as the chief guest.

Dr Momen said the commission would independently scrutinise candidates' affidavits, request the Election Commission to flag any suspicious assets, and, if necessary, prioritise this task over other activities.

He also urged journalists to play an active role by analysing and verifying affidavit information and bringing credible findings to public attention.

Responding to a question about the newly-enacted law, Dr Momen reiterated the ACC's zero-tolerance stance against corruption.

"Our position is very clear. There will be no compromise with corruption. If any provision in the new law suggests compromise, we will maintain our previous stance and, if necessary, discuss the matter with the government," he said.

Speaking at the meeting, ACC Commissioner (Investigation) Mia Muhammad Ali Akbar Azizi said the commission would assist judges by presenting strong and credible evidence to prove corruption cases.

Under the law, he said, the ACC has the authority to take into cognisance verified information published in newspapers and urged journalists to ensure their reports are fact-based and properly verified rather than based on hearsay.