'Criminal' businessmen to face action, but firms will remain operational: Asif

Labour and Employment Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain has said that while action will be taken against businessmen involved in crimes such as money laundering, their business institutions will remain operational, reports bdnews24.com.

He said, "We are not beholden to corporate entities; we are independent. We can take action against anyone, and we are doing so."

"The individuals will face trial for their crimes, but we want to assure the institutions: continue your work," he said while addressing the Consumer Rights Conference at Dhaka University's Teacher-Student Centre, on Saturday.

"You have had years where you couldn't focus on public welfare; now is the time to pay attention to it," he added.

Asif pointed out a significant issue regarding the rising prices of essential commodities, attributing part of it to transaction effects.

He said, "Many owners of large businesses in Bangladesh face allegations of money laundering or loan defaults. The government is taking action against them, but there is a distinction between individual crimes and those of the business institutions."

"The individuals who have committed crimes using their business entities and have laundered money through their good relations with the government will be brought to trial. However, the government is assisting to keep the business entities active."

To illustrate this, the labour adviser said: "BEXIMCO employs 70,000 staff members. This means the lives of 70,000 families are at stake. Thus, the government is supporting that institution by arranging loans for them."

TASKFORCE TO TACKLE RISING PRICES

Asif said, "We have seen a continuous increase in commodity prices, and we have begun activities to tackle this challenge."

"A task force has been established across districts by the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection, which includes student representatives. We have observed some positive outcomes from this."

He said, "As a consumer last year, I noticed that when prices started to rise, they escalated dramatically. The price of green chili had soared to Tk 1,200 per kg."

"However, timely price control this time has prevented further increases. Winter vegetables are on their way, and I expect prices to drop further."

The labour adviser said, "In this government, I strive to include youth. I have recommended including young people in the taskforce at the commerce ministry."

"Traffic police who performed their duties are currently being engaged in part-time work within the police force, and the involvement of young people in any work can ensure the success of this government. The enthusiasm and altruism of the youth can drive us toward a new Bangladesh."

CONSUMER RIGHTS LAW AMENDMENT

Asif said he had discussed amending the consumer rights law with Commerce Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed.

"We have deliberated on various issues, including reducing commodity prices. This process is ongoing, and we are working diligently to alleviate price hikes quickly."

He added, "Through the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, we are assisting farmers in sending their products directly to the market, ensuring no interference from syndicates or intermediaries."

"The government is providing support to those working to send products directly from farmers to the market."

The government appointed AHM Safiquzzaman, who previously served as the director general of the Directorate of Consumer Rights Protection, as the secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Employment on September 5.

Asif said, "I picked AHM Safiquzzaman as my secretary due to his visible work on social media. Therefore, I want to emphasise that instead of bribing for promotions, one should strive to perform their duties well for advancement."