Corruption fight needs timetable, says TIB

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has urged the government to adopt and enforce a time-bound roadmap consistent with its declared "zero tolerance" stance on corruption.
With the call, TIB issued a press release on Monday. Mohammad Tauhidul Islam, director of outreach and communication of TIB, signed the statement.
TIB says it interprets the prime minister's disclosure about action taken against a former employee who amassed huge wealth as a reaffirmation of her "far or near, no matter" and "zero tolerance" pledges against corruption.
Recently, numerous instances of high-level corruption have come to light, where individuals have allegedly amassed huge income and wealth through abuse of power or influence.
At a press conference on July 14, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina told reporters the government had taken action against a former household employee who had amassed Tk 4 billion.
Citing the prime minister's disclosure as evidence of political will, TIB Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman said, "The prime minister has expressed her dismay at the culture of normalising illegal wealth accumulation through abuse of power, whether by those associated with her or others in high government positions."
Dr Iftekharuzzaman described the PM's announcement as "timely and promising", especially because it included action against an individual -- a commitment to removing corrupt officials regardless of their proximity.
Besides, the step, TIB says, is a rejection of the idea that tackling corruption damages the government's image and a reaffirmation of the "zero tolerance" policy.
The TIB executive director said the PM's declaration to hold the corrupt accountable was significant for the government and its institutions.
"Failing to bring to justice the individual who amassed Tk 4 billion -- someone the prime minister says only travels by helicopter -- would be demeaning for the statement made by the head of the government if subject to due investigation by ACC these are found to be inconsistent with legitimate income," he said.
The prime minister clearly emphasised the legal and political obligation to ensure exemplary accountability for anyone accused of corruption, Dr Iftekharuzzaman said.
Given recent events, it is imperative to effectively hold key figures accountable for alleged high-level corruption, including the former army chief, former police and RAB chief and senior National Board of Revenue officials, through efficient and impartial investigations, he added.

[email protected]