[🇧🇩] Corruption Watch

[Saif]

ACC Chairman: Padma Bridge graft case was shelved despite ample evidence

Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Chairman Mohammad Moinuddin Abdullah on Tuesday said that despite having substantial evidence of irregularities, the much-discussed Padma Multipurpose Bridge graft case was prematurely closed, and the accused were exempted from trial. He made the remarks while talk

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

ACC Chairman: Padma Bridge graft case was shelved despite ample evidence

UNB
Published :
Jul 01, 2025 21:46
Updated :
Jul 01, 2025 21:46

Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Chairman Mohammad Moinuddin Abdullah on Tuesday said that despite having substantial evidence of irregularities, the much-discussed Padma Multipurpose Bridge graft case was prematurely closed, and the accused were exempted from trial.

He made the remarks while talking to reporters at the ACC headquarters in Dhaka’s Segunbagicha this afternoon.

“The case’s initial investigation report was flawed and incomplete. We have decided to revive it with a comprehensive and evidence-based submission,” said the ACC chief.

Referring to irregularities in the procurement process of consultants for the Padma Bridge project, Moinuddin Abdullah noted that although there were clear grounds for legal action, the previous commission submitted an FRT (Final Report True), effectively ending the case.

“When the current commission took over in December, we reassessed the matter and felt that the case was shelved forcefully. It needs to be revived, and we’ve already begun a fresh investigation,” he added.

Citing specific violations of public procurement rules, he said the evaluation committee for the project was changed several times with ill intent. “Such changes indicate malafide intentions. Items that were supposed to be reusable were shown to be procured multiple times, which is financially unjustifiable,” he noted.

The ACC chief pointed out several breaches of the Public Procurement Act (PPA) and Public Procurement Rules (PPR), saying CVs of consultants were not properly evaluated and committee meetings required by law were either skipped or inadequately conducted.

“Based on these factors, we believe the earlier report was fundamentally defective, whether due to pressure or negligence. This time, our investigating officer will submit a complete and independent report, and the case will be reopened,” he affirmed.

In 2012, the World Bank suspended its USD 1.2 billion loan commitment for the Padma Bridge project, citing concerns over corruption. On December 17 of that year, the ACC filed a case with Banani Police Station against seven individuals.

The prime accused was then Bridges Division Secretary Mosharraf Hossain Bhuiyan, who was arrested and suspended from his position. He was later released on bail and reinstated.​

 

[Saif]

ACC launches probe against five NBR commissioners, officers

There are allegations that the concerned tax officials take hefty sums in the name of processing these refunds.

en.prothomalo.com

ACC launches probe against five NBR commissioners, officers

Staff Correspondent Dhaka
Published: 03 Jul 2025, 18: 42

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has initiated an investigation against five more officials of the National Board of Revenue (NBR).

The commission made the disclosure through a press release on Thursday. The officials under investigation are Md Kamruzzaman, commissioner of Benapole Customs House; Kazi Mohammad Ziauddin, commissioner of Dhaka East Customs, Excise and VAT Commissionerate; Sehela Siddika, additional tax commissioner of the Income Tax Division; Md Mamun Mia, deputy tax commissioner; and Lokman Ahmed, tax inspector.

Sehela Siddika is the secretary general of the NBR reform unity council, which led the recent movement in NBR. Multiple NBR officials told Prothom Alo that the investigation is being used as a means of harassment in retaliation for the movement.

According to the ACC press release, unscrupulous NBR members and officials are facilitating tax evasion in exchange for large sum of bribes, and allowing some specific taxpayers to pay less than their actual dues for their mutual benefits.

In the aftermath, the government is losing significant revenue each year. In some cases, officials file false tax evasion cases against business owners if bribes are not paid, further harassing them.

The ACC said some taxpayers pay advance or excess taxes, and the law mandates that any overpaid amount must be refunded. It was learned from data analysis and complaints that to receive such refunds, taxpayers often have to pay additional bribes or offer gifts, sometimes amounting to half the refund.

There are allegations that the concerned tax officials take hefty sums in the name of processing these refunds.

Earlier, the ACC launched investigations into 11 high-ranked NBR officials, including two NBR members. Among them is Hasan Muhammad Tarek Rikabdar, the president of the NBR reform unity council.​

 

[Saif]

Public servants top ACC cases

The involvement of government officials and employees in various forms of corruption, including amassing illegal wealth, bribery, abuse of power, and money laundering, has increased manifold in recent years in Bangladesh.

www.newagebd.net

Public servants top ACC cases
Solamain Salman 06 July, 2025, 00:29

The involvement of government officials and employees in various forms of corruption, including amassing illegal wealth, bribery, abuse of power, and money laundering, has increased manifold in recent years in Bangladesh.

Government officials now top the list of corruption cases filed by the Anti-Corruption Commission, followed by private jobholders, business people, politicians, and public representatives, according to ACC data.

According to experts, corruption by government officials is increasing as corrupt officials are not being punished after committing corruption and they advised the government to ensure a quick disposal of the ACC cases for prompt punishment.

Asked about the trend of the graft cases, former ACC director general Md Moyeedul Islam told New Age, ‘In our country, no one faces consequences for corruption; instead, they gain social status and as such involvementw in corruption, including by government officials, is increasing.’New Age merchandise

The ACC is mostly working over corruption by government officials, but they are not working much over money laundering and amassing wealth beyond known sources of income by other people, which is also a reason for higher numbers of government officials accused of corruption, he further said.

Noting that the social and political environment in the country is also conducive to corruption, he said that there were strong laws against corruption but graft is not being prevented due to lack of effectiveness of the ACC and of goodwill of government and political parties.

Data show that the ACC conducted inquiries over 292 complaints from January to March this year and filed total 153 cases against 477 people over graft allegations. Of the accused, 144 were government officials, 113 private jobholders, 60 politicians, 44 businesspeople, 11 public representatives, and 105 from other professions.

The number of government officials in the list of accused during the January-March period is more than the number for the 12 months in 2023.

In 2024, the ACC filed cases against 346 government jobholders, 187 private jobholders, 71 businesspeople, 32 politicians, 30 public representatives, and 205 other professions.

In 2023, 120 accused were government jobholders, 33 private jobholders, eight business people, two politicians, 12 public representatives and 50 from other professions.

Contacted, ACC director general (prevention) Md Akhtar Hossain told New Age that the ACC was focusing on offences by government officials as per the ACC law because most of the accused in corruption cases were public servants.’New Age merchandise

He said, ‘The ACC is working with utmost sincerity to prevent corruption by government officials as well as corruption by other people as per the relevant law.’

Data show that the country’s government offices also heavily indulged in corruption during the Awami League regime when people could not get services from most of the offices without bribe.

According to a Transparency International Bangladesh survey titled ‘Corruption in Service Sectors: National Household Survey 2023’ released in December, 2024, the Department of Immigration and Passports was found to be the most corrupt service provider, followed by the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority, and law enforcing agencies.Bangladesh-themed souvenirs

The survey also found that almost 71 per cent of the surveyed households faced corruption while getting service in 2023 while 50.8 per cent of the households had to pay bribes to get service.

Service seekers paid an estimated Tk 1.46 lakh crore in bribes between 2009 and April 2024 to access essential facilities during the tenure of the Awami League regime, said the survey.

After the fall of the Awami league regime on August 5, 2024 amid a student-led mass uprising and the formation of Professor Muhammad Yunus-led interim government, the ACC has intensified its anti-graft drive across the country.

As a result, the ACC filed a total of 399 cases over the past year between July 2024 and June 2025 on charges of corruption and money laundering against many influential people, including ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina, her family members, former ministers, lawmakers, senior bureaucrats, police and army officials, and businesspeople.

Data show that a total of 768 inquiries were initiated from July 2024 year to June this year and 399 cases were filed while charge sheets were submitted in 321 cases.

Although the ACC is officially an independent organisation, it has long faced criticism for operating under government influence and the fallen AL government often used the ACC as a tool to harass opposition people in the past.

ACC chair Mohammad Abdul Momen at a press briefing past month, however, said that they were working based on evidence and following law.

Anyone currently in power will also be investigated if specific allegations were raised against them, he said.

Transparency International in its Corruption Perception Index 2024 indicated that corruption was increasing in Bangladesh as the country slipped by steps in its global Corruption Perception Index to 151, jointly with Congo and Iran.Bangladesh-themed souvenirs

Bangladesh has scored 23 to become the 14th most corrupt country globally and the second most corrupt state in South Asia, only ahead of Afghanistan scoring 17. In 2023, Bangladesh ranked 149th with a score of 24, according to the report.​

 

[Saif]

Prospect of recovering non-performing loans

Much of the country's economic haemorrhage owes to a gargantuan size of non-performing loans (NPLs). Banks that extended or were made to sanction such loans have bled white and would have collapsed long ago but for the injection of cash by the central bank in order to keep them afloat. However the

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Prospect of recovering non-performing loans

Published :
Jul 07, 2025 23:24
Updated :
Jul 07, 2025 23:24

Much of the country's economic haemorrhage owes to a gargantuan size of non-performing loans (NPLs). Banks that extended or were made to sanction such loans have bled white and would have collapsed long ago but for the injection of cash by the central bank in order to keep them afloat. However the overall liquidity crisis suffered by the banking sector including non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs) was due to siphoning off the borrowed money abroad instead of investing in the stated productive sectors. The interim government's effort to bring back the laundered money amounting, according to experts, to Tk 1.0 trillion has failed because governments and various agencies of the destination countries did not cooperate in repatriation of the money stashed away in their banks. So the next course of action was to salvage the situation as much as possible by using both persuasive and coercive methods.

The loan-recovery committee formed by the Bangladesh Bank (BB) has made notable progress in solving the problem of default loans. It has already settled some 60 cases involving Tk 3.0 billion. The details of how each specific case was settled are not known but the broad rules governing the process have been made public. Some defaulters were allowed loan-rescheduling opportunity for the last time with a guarantee of repayment, others were granted an extension of loan-repayment period and still others, who opted for a business-exit plan, interest waiver in favour of repayment of the principal amount of loans. The 'guarantee of repayment' clause sounds good but has this been backed by a foolproof mechanism for repayment of the loans in instalment? The defaulters have a long history of adopting such a ploy to defer repayment. They are unlikely to let go any opportunity to abuse the agreement. So, it would be in the fairness of the fresh arrangement to use their existing assets as the collateral. They may buy time until the national election when the equation may once again shift in their favour.

Clearly, settlement of this order is impossible without concessions. But even if a good portion of the embezzled money and NPLs can be recovered through some concessions, the exercise is better than leaving the matter unattended. The positive vibe generated in case of the 60 cases settled seems to have encouraged some biggies known for their massive default culture to show their willingness for such mediated settlements. Reportedly, the committee has received more than 1,200 applications from companies and corporate houses including some large conglomerates. If they are sincere in striking workable and effective deals, the country's banking sector and the economy stand a chance of turning around.

This is certainly an opportunity for the erring big business houses to mend their ways. They can revive business fortune and restore confidence if they go by the respective letter of the rescheduling agreements. In this case, the most outstanding factor the loan-settling committee has emphasised is the verification of repayment capability of the defaulted companies. So, the committee has made recommendation for auditing those business houses' annual revenue earnings by reputed international auditors. Well, if the companies pass the test, they will qualify for the committee-determined ways of repayment of their loans. If everything goes well, at least some semblance of streamlining banking operation and economic order can be restored.​

 

[Saif]

7.2m taxpayers do not file returns: NBR

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) Chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan has revealed that 7.2 million individual taxpayers do not file their income tax returns despite having a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN). He said among those who do file tax returns, around 3 million are not paying income tax.

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

7.2m taxpayers do not file returns: NBR

Published :
Jul 14, 2025 20:38
Updated :
Jul 14, 2025 20:38

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) Chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan has revealed that 7.2 million individual taxpayers do not file their income tax returns despite having a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN).

He said among those who do file tax returns, around 3 million are not paying income tax.

The NBR, citing the chairman, disclosed the information at a media briefing on Monday, reports bdnews24.com.

The briefing, citing information from the income tax department’s revenue collection review meeting in July, mentioned that the NBR chairman has instructed officials to encourage non-filers with a TIN to submit their tax returns.

He directed the maximum utilisation of manpower to ensure return filing, saying: “To collect the necessary funds for state administration, there is no alternative to increasing the income tax share of total revenue collection.

“We have repeatedly failed to meet this target. In the outgoing fiscal year, the income tax sector’s share of the NBR’s total revenue collection has not increased, but rather decreased slightly.”

Quoting the chairman, the NBR press release said: “To increase income tax collection, it must be collected from 7.2 million taxpayers who do not file income tax returns despite having TINs, and about 3 million taxpayers who do not pay income tax despite filing returns, according to their ability.”

Abdur urged income tax officials to prioritise these 10 million taxpayers in the new fiscal year 2025-26.

He also directed to find new taxpayers by strengthening survey and spot assessment activities.

The NBR chief directed the commissioners in the meeting to increase the collection of outstanding taxes during the discussion.

He also asked the taxpayers to complete the transfer of all documents within this month to “ensure harassment-free service”.​

 

[Saif]

NBR unearths Tk 18.74b in tax evasion as 183 individuals, firms under probe

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has uncovered Tk 18.74 billion in tax evasion involving 183 individuals and organisations, following investigations conducted over the past seven months. In a statement issued on Monday, the NBR said its Income Tax Intelligence and Investigation Unit, which beca

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

NBR unearths Tk 18.74b in tax evasion as 183 individuals, firms under probe

bdnews24.com
Published :
Jul 14, 2025 18:54
Updated :
Jul 14, 2025 18:54

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has uncovered Tk 18.74 billion in tax evasion involving 183 individuals and organisations, following investigations conducted over the past seven months.

In a statement issued on Monday, the NBR said its Income Tax Intelligence and Investigation Unit, which became fully operational only seven months ago, carried out the inquiries that led to these findings.

Out of the total, Tk 1.17 billion has already been recovered from 63 individuals and firms identified during the probe, according to the NBR.

Based on specific evidence of tax evasion, authorities have frozen the bank accounts of more than 100 people and entities. The intelligence and investigation unit has also launched initiatives to encourage voluntary compliance among taxpayers.

“The Income Tax Intelligence and Investigation Unit is fully committed to taking appropriate legal action against any form of tax evasion or the accumulation of anonymous assets,” the statement said.

The NBR has intensified its enforcement efforts as part of a broader strategy to expand the country’s tax base and enhance revenue collection amid increasing fiscal pressures.​

 

[Saif]

Bangladesh Bank issues warning against fraudsters posing as ACC officials

Bangladesh Bank on Monday issued an urgent directive warning all non-bank financial institutions operating in the country about a rising trend of fraudsters impersonating officials of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) to extort money. The central bank’s directive instructs non-bank financ

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Bangladesh Bank issues warning against fraudsters posing as ACC officials

Published :
Jul 14, 2025 18:28
Updated :
Jul 14, 2025 20:06

Bangladesh Bank on Monday issued an urgent directive warning all non-bank financial institutions operating in the country about a rising trend of fraudsters impersonating officials of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) to extort money.

The central bank’s directive instructs non-bank financial institutions to immediately seek assistance from local administration and law enforcement agencies if anyone attempts to intimidate or solicit money by using the names of the ACC Chairman, Commissioners, or any other ACC official.

The central bank says these fraudulent activities have come to the government’s attention, reports UNB.

This central bank circular follows two separate directives issued earlier by the Cabinet Division and the Ministry of Finance on the same matter.

The modus operandi of these fraudsters involves contacting individuals via phone or in person, claiming to be ACC personnel.

They then attempt to extort money by threatening arrest, investigation, or filing cases. Many unsuspecting citizens often fall victim to these schemes.

Bangladesh Bank emphasized that financial institutions must remain vigilant to stop these deceptive rackets and take swift action against any such behavior.

Concerned parties note that impersonating ACC officials for fraudulent purposes is not a new phenomenon, but these incidents have seen a recent surge.

Bangladesh Bank’s initiative is, therefore, considered timely, and the public is also urged to remain vigilant. Citizens who encounter such fraudulent attempts are advised to immediately report them to the police or relevant authorities.

It has been learned that recently, four individuals were arrested following allegations of “demanding bribes” against ACC officials made by National Citizen Party (NCP) leader Hasnat Abdullah on Facebook.

On June 30, the ACC confirmed the arrests, stating that the individuals were members of a fraud ring who had been impersonating ACC officials to extort money by promising to settle cases.​

 

[Saif]

Code of ethics for NBR

It is heartening to know that the National Board of Revenue (NBR) has already framed a draft of the code of ethics and professional conduct for its staff in order to make its service transparent and accountable. Why the NBR needs such ethical guidelines is not far to seek. It has ever remained one

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Code of ethics for NBR

Published :
Jul 14, 2025 23:14
Updated :
Jul 14, 2025 23:14

It is heartening to know that the National Board of Revenue (NBR) has already framed a draft of the code of ethics and professional conduct for its staff in order to make its service transparent and accountable. Why the NBR needs such ethical guidelines is not far to seek. It has ever remained one of the most corrupt government organs. In this context, the finding by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics' study on the state of bribery in the government offices that 31.67 per cent of the respondents had to pay bribes to get services may be illuminating for several reasons. The BBS-conducted study presents this unsavoury picture of the past one year when the interim government was at the helm of affairs. Titled "Citizen Perception Survey 2025", this study reaffirms that old habit dies hard for people in government service. The NBR with its infamous Motiur Rahman legacy surprisingly did not figure among the top corrupt government agencies.

Now what can be the possible explanation for this? The BBS study may have selected people of modest income, not those who have taxable incomes or actually submit tax returns. The survey has found the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA), law enforcement agencies and land registry offices as the dens of corrupt practices with 63.29 per cent, 61.29 per cent and 54.92 per cent people respectively coerced to pay bribes for receiving service. Had respondents from the upper echelon of society been selected, the NBR would have every chance of breaking into the circle of the top three groups. It is not for nothing that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has tagged reform of this order to the NBR with its loan sanctioned for Bangladesh. The multilateral funding agency has taken interest in this matter and a team is scheduled to visit Bangladesh to extend technical support and also assess the code of ethics framed.

That the tax-GDP ratio is one of the lowest in Bangladesh and even lower than its South Asian neighbours is not simply because wilful tax dodgers can evade paying their dues on their own account, it is also because of an unholy alliance between a section of the revenue officials who prompts the process. So there is the need for the envisioned code of conduct which if framed well and made effective will leave not much leeway for such corrupt practices. Here the attempt is to set a benchmark of standard practices in providing service. When dearth of people with integrity is acute, there is no other alternative to tightening the set of practices and behaviours governing administration in its public dealings. All corrupt government agencies are sure candidates for similar ethical guidance.

Let the process take off with the introduction of the code of ethics in the NBR. Other government agencies may raise a dissenting voice like a section of the NBR officials did, saying that there are public service rules which guide their conducts. But this is a lame excuse. The bureaucracy and the administrative setups down the order have long been pampered by governments in order to establish a privileged but pliable coterie for mutually advancing material gains through corruption. If the NBR gets the priority right, there is no reason why other government agencies would not be made to follow suit.​

 

[Saif]

Extortion and corruption eat into vitals of society

The killing of a scrap metal trader in old Dhaka has jolted the national conscience. Killings of innocent members of public by muggers, dacoits, anti-social elements including teenage gangs have become so common that the entire country is turning into a death valley. But it is the extortionists who

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Extortion and corruption eat into vitals of society

Neil Ray
Published :
Jul 13, 2025 23:19
Updated :
Jul 13, 2025 23:19

The killing of a scrap metal trader in old Dhaka has jolted the national conscience. Killings of innocent members of public by muggers, dacoits, anti-social elements including teenage gangs have become so common that the entire country is turning into a death valley. But it is the extortionists who have targeted businesses---from small traders to big merchants ---in order to extract large sums of money. Such killings were there during the previous regimes and there is no let-up, if not shown a rising trend, of extortion-related crimes including killings.

In case of the murder of the scrap metal trader in old Dhaka, the manner of taking the victim's life is what has challenged the collective sense of right and wrong. The brutal treatment of a human being and the disrespect for a deceased body expose the diabolical mind behind such acts. This bizarre spiteful way of deriving pleasure from taking life of one who merely refused to comply with their demand for a monthly rate of Tk200,000 cannot but send shockwaves across all levels of society here. Fittingly, there has been a widespread outcry against the extortion and the appalling crime.

In this context, the statements made by the law adviser and the home adviser are quite intriguing---one says the case will be referred to the Speedy Tribunal Court for early trial and the other claims legal action has been initiated against those involved in the killing. Are these not too little too late? Indeed, the interim government has miserably failed to address the declining law and order situation in the country. Let alone the earlier vandalism and destruction of a number of infrastructure, when organised attacks were unleashed on some sites of historical importance including the museum on Road 27, Dhanmondi, the War of Liberation Museum located in Agargaon and some religious shrines, the government turned a blind eye to such mob violence.

The latest rise in mob culture finds its encouragement from the government's inaction. But there is more to the elements of criminal proliferation. Immediately after the fall of Sheikh Hasina's autocracy, there was a need for restraint on extortion in order to breathe a fresh air into the country's business sector. Indications are clear that both bribery and extortion are still rife in society. What is particularly galling is that a party well poised to take over if an election is held on a level-playing field, has failed to establish its command on leaderships at the grassroots level.

Allegedly, in the case of the latest murder in old Dhaka, accusing fingers have been pointed to this political organisation. Internecine feuds in the party make regular news. Yes, the high command of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has time and again warned its followers down the rank not to get involved in criminal activities. But all such exhortations seem to have fallen on deaf ears. Why? Are the BNP leaders playing to the gallery? It is reported that the party has by this time boosted its organisational activities in order to face the election. No question about such organisational activities. But does such party organisation not encompass the very basics of how party workers would conduct themselves? Did the party get across a stern message that their field-level leaders and followers can no longer follow the discarded political ways and practices of the deposed party that turned into a monster because of the 15-year long reign? It appears there is many a slip between the cup and the lip.

But here was a golden opportunity not only for the BNP but all other parties to mend their political ways in favour of a corruption- and extortion-free country---one that would gradually help reduce discrimination and disparities in society. The poor and marginalised people would have an opportunity to rediscover their rightful place in order to take part in the economic and development activities and share dividends of prosperity accordingly. The anti-trade and anti-entrepreneurship ambience extortion and bribery create should have by now been disposed of.​

 

[Saif]

TIB slams questionable procurement process of July memorial museum

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has expressed deep concern over the decision to spend nearly Tk 1.11 billion through direct procurement for the construction and renovation work at Ganabhaban, the former Prime Minister’s official residence, for the purpose of establishing the “July...

en.prothomalo.com

TIB slams questionable procurement process of July memorial museum
Staff Correspondent Dhaka
Published: 16 Jul 2025, 22: 44

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has expressed deep concern over the decision to spend nearly Tk 1.11 billion through direct procurement for the construction and renovation work at Ganabhaban, the former Prime Minister’s official residence, for the purpose of establishing the “July Uprising Memorial Museum.”

The organisation stated that the manner in which existing laws and regulations have been bypassed under the justification of direct procurement for spending public funds is not consistent with the interim government's commitment to transparency and accountability in state affairs, says a press release issued today, Wednesday.

According to media reports, the construction and renovation work required to complete the transformation of the museum by 5 August will be carried out through the direct purchase method, meaning no tender will be invited.

The Advisory Council Committee on Economic Affairs gave its approval in principle for this on Tuesday at a meeting held at the Secretariat.

Describing the procurement process without tender as questionable, TIB Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman said, “The commendable initiative to transform the former Prime Minister’s residence—Ganabhaban—into the ‘July Uprising Memorial Museum,’ meant to commemorate the uprising, honour the martyrs, and portray the oppression by the then Awami League government, is now at risk of being undermined."

"Generally, government procurement through direct purchase is permitted only under emergency situations, unforeseen disasters, for specialised goods or services, or in specific circumstances where rapid delivery is necessary," TIB executive director added.

According to the government's explanation, the decision to award the work through the direct purchase method was made to expedite the completion of the museum's transformation.

Ifthekharuzzaman pointed out the question is: this project was approved back in December 2024, and under procurement policy, there was ample time to issue tenders and follow due procedures for open competition.

"Yet, after nearly seven months, the government has opted for direct purchase just three weeks before the deadline—thereby bypassing sections 76(1) and 76(2) of the Public Procurement Rules," he added.

ITB executive director said, "These sections clearly state that direct procurement cannot be used to avoid open competition or show favoritism toward any particular entity. Moreover, as this method lacks transparency and accountability, its application must be strictly controlled.”

Iftekharuzzman further asserted that the construction process of the July Uprising Memorial Museum does not qualify as a specialised procurement.

In this project, nearly Tk 1.11 crore worth of electrical & mechanical (EM) and public works have been awarded directly to two separate entities, he added.

“The question is: why was the direct purchase method applied for such a routine procurement? On what basis were these two firms awarded the work orders? What was the rationale for their selection? How were the contract values determined? How will ‘value for money’ be ensured in this expenditure?

Without proper answers to these fundamental questions, awarding the contracts in this manner raises valid concerns about collusion and favoritism. Awarding such a large amount of work without an open tender process also calls into question the interim government’s commitment to ensuring the proper and prudent use of public resources.”

The TIB’s Executive Director further stated that while the government speaks of its commitment to combating corruption and achieving state reform, violating such fundamental principles in public procurement is self-defeating and contradictory.

“We demand an impartial investigation and a clear explanation as to why there was a delay despite sufficient time after the decision was made, and why it became necessary to award the contracts without a tender process,” he added.​

 

[Saif]

Awami League tenure: ACC probing 15yrs of financial irregularities

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has launched an investigation into alleged corruption by individuals, financial institutions, industrial groups, and loan defaulters during the Awami League’s 15-year tenure, which it claims led to the destruction of the country’s financial system.

www.thedailystar.net

Awami League tenure: ACC probing 15yrs of financial irregularities

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has launched an investigation into alleged corruption by individuals, financial institutions, industrial groups, and loan defaulters during the Awami League's 15-year tenure, which it claims led to the destruction of the country's financial system.

As part of this move, the commission is examining the role of former top officials of Bangladesh Bank, including three former governors and four former deputy governors, in major irregularities in the financial sector.

In a recent letter signed by ACC Deputy Director Mominul Islam, the commission sought information on various allegations of irregularities in the banking sector over the last 15 years.

"Several teams are working on financial irregularities. Once the investigation is complete, the assigned committee will submit its report. The findings will be disclosed in due time," ACC Director General (Prevention) and spokesperson Md Akhter Hossain told The Daily Star.

According to ACC sources, information has been sought regarding former BB governors Atiur Rahman, Fazle Kabir, and Abdur Rouf Talukder; former deputy governors SK Sur Chowdhury, SM Moniruzzaman, Abu Hena Mohammad Razee Hassan, and Abu Farah Mohammad Nasser; and former heads of the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit Masud Biswas and Kazi Saidur Rahman.

These nine individuals held responsibilities at the central bank at different times during the past 15 years.

The ACC has also requested documents related to the approval of new banks during their tenure, all loan policies issued during that period, information on loan disbursements, money laundering, notices regarding US dollar disbursement from reserves to businesses, and copies of any internal investigation reports by BB concerning these matters.

Additionally, the ACC asked for policies issued since 2009 regarding the regularisation of default loans, and details of companies that benefited from these policies, including: Beximco Group, MR Group, Ratanpur Group, Keya Group, Jamuna Group, Thermax Group, Sikder Group, BBS Group, Abdul Monem Ltd, AnonTex Group, and others.

The commission has sought names of these companies and their owners, permanent and current addresses, loan amounts, and current loan statuses.

The ACC also demanded approval-related notices, documents, and circulars for nine banks approved after the AL came to power in 2009, namely: Meghna Bank, Midland Bank, Madhumati Bank, NRB Bank, NRB Commercial Bank, NRB Global Bank, South Bangla Agriculture and Commerce Bank, Union Bank, and The Farmers Bank, currently named Padma Bank.

In response to a letter from Salman F Rahman, the commission has also asked for the notice and documents related to the 2015 policy on loan restructuring; attested copies of policies issued after 2009 regarding bank inspections; and documents related to the formulation and issuance of those policies.

Furthermore, the ACC has sought attested copies of notices and circulars regarding the acquisition and ownership control of Islami Bank and Social Islami Bank.

If the central bank has conducted any internal investigations on these matters, the commission wants those reports as well.

Contacted, BB spokesperson Arif Hossain Khan said, "Recently, the ACC has issued several letters requesting various information. We are trying to provide all the required data to the best of our ability."​

 

[Saif]

Will corruption ever leave RAJUK?

Govt must ensure transparency and accountability in this institution

www.thedailystar.net

Will corruption ever leave RAJUK?
Govt must ensure transparency and accountability in this institution

VISUAL: STAR

We are quite disappointed to see RAJUK continuously failing to deliver its services in a transparent and accountable manner. Over the years, this organisation has earned a bad reputation for subjecting service-seekers to various forms of irregularities and unethical practices. While city dwellers had hoped that things would improve during the interim government's tenure, old practices have reportedly remained unchanged. From allotment letters and plot transfers to building design approvals and land-use clearances, irregularities persist across the board. While RAJUK is entrusted with the responsibility of restoring Dhaka's liveability, there have been no visible steps taken towards fulfilling that mandate. This state of affairs is unacceptable.

According to a report by Banik Barta, service-seekers face the greatest challenge while seeking land-use clearance and design approvals. Apparently, getting building designs approved is nearly impossible without paying hefty bribes. Landowners and developers claim it may take anywhere from Tk 5 lakh to upwards of a crore to get a design approved. To address such irregularities, RAJUK had launched the Electronic Construction Permitting System (ECPS) in 2022 but it remains non-functional, mostly because all processes continue through manual, desk-based dealings. Often, building designs submitted online through RAJUK-approved engineers are rejected without explanation. So applicants must visit RAJUK office in person, where they end up being compelled to pay bribes. RAJUK's inefficiency and irregularities are also reflected in its new Detailed Area Plan (DAP), which has drawn criticisms from experts.

We urge the government to eliminate corruption and bribery from RAJUK to ensure the smooth delivery of services to citizens. Currently, securing even a single service requires submitting numerous documents, many of which are unnecessary. This burdensome practice also must end. RAJUK should streamline all its services to alleviate public suffering.

In 2020, the Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) recommended some critical reforms to curb corruption and promote accountability within the institution. These include amending outdated laws and regulations, transferring RAJUK's housing and real estate functions to a separate authority, dedicating RAJUK solely to planning and development, decentralising its services, and strengthening oversight, among others. We call on the government to seriously consider these recommendations and take decisive steps to transform RAJUK into a transparent, efficient, and citizen-friendly institution.​

 

[Saif]

ACC seeks details of ‘Mujib Year’ expenses

The Anti-Corruption Commission on Monday sent letters to all 64 districts across the country, seeking detailed financial records related to the nationwide observance of ‘Mujib Borsho’ or ‘Mujib Year’ on the occasion of birth centenary of the country’s founding president, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman...

www.newagebd.net

ACC seeks details of ‘Mujib Year’ expenses
Staff Correspondent 22 July, 2025, 00:07

The Anti-Corruption Commission on Monday sent letters to all 64 districts across the country, seeking detailed financial records related to the nationwide observance of ‘Mujib Borsho’ or ‘Mujib Year’ on the occasion of birth centenary of the country’s founding president, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and the construction of over 10,000 murals and sculptures during the period.

The Awami League government, which was ousted on August 5, 2024, in a mass uprising, allegedly misappropriated and wasted about Tk 4,000 crore on various events and installations, including the construction of murals and statues across the country, during the event.

The ‘Mujib Borsho’ celebrations took place from March 2020 to March 2022. Sheikh Hasina, daughter of the late Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, was in power then.

ACC director general (prevention) Akhtar Hossain said that the inquiry was initiated following allegations of misappropriation and waste — estimated at about Tk 4,000 crore – from the state treasury during the ‘Mujib Borsha’ celebrations.

The anti-graft agency in the letters sent to the DCs sought how much money had been used to celebrate the ‘Mujib Year’, the name of the ministry which spent the money, and the names of the officials involved in the expenses.

The funds were allegedly spent under projects associated with ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina, her sister Sheikh Rehana, and others.

Earlier in January, a seven-member ACC team headed by a deputy director launched an inquiry into the allegations.​

 

[Saif]

Trade-based money laundering drains $16b a year for laxity

Bangladesh loses US$16 billion annually through trade-based money laundering alone for policy leniency and lax regulation of trading operations, reveals an official outfit's study and prescribes preventives. Despite having strong policy frameworks to help combat

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Trade-based money laundering drains $16b a year for laxity

FE REPORT
Published :
Jul 22, 2025 23:53
Updated :
Jul 22, 2025 23:53

Bangladesh loses US$16 billion annually through trade-based money laundering alone for policy leniency and lax regulation of trading operations, reveals an official outfit's study and prescribes preventives.

Despite having strong policy frameworks to help combat trade-based money laundering (TBML), the country remains significantly exposed to illicit financial outflows due to their inadequate enforcement and systemic challenges, says the study report published Tuesday by the Bangladesh Institute of Bank Management (BIBM).

The report, titled 'Enforcement Status of the Standards to Prevent Trade-Based Money Laundering', which was presented at a roundtable at the BIBM office, says approximately 75 per cent of domestic money- laundering cases involve trade channels.

Deputy Governor of Bangladesh Bank and Chairman of the BIBM Executive Committee Nurun Nahar was present at the programme as chief guest with BIBM Director-General S. M. Abdul Hakim in the chair.

Professor (Selection Grade) of BIBM Dr. Shah Md. Ahsan Habib presented the keynote while a good number of top bankers and experts also attended the event.

Over the period of past 15 years from 2009 to 2023, Bangladesh had lost an estimated amount of $16 billion annually through TBML, mostly in the sectors like textiles, consumer goods and petroleum imports.

Such outflow of money is equivalent to 3.4 per cent of the country's GDP, surpassing even the annual public health budget.

While Bangladesh has aligned its policies with global anti-money laundering standards--including risk-based customer due diligence, price-verification protocols, and real-time monitoring tools -- the implementation of the measures across the financial and customs systems remains inconsistent and, in many cases, ineffective.

Based on a combination of secondary research and a primary survey of 37 commercial banks, the BIBM study found all banks having claimed to have some form of sanctions-screening-and trade-monitoring systems.

However, only half of surveyed banks subscribe the global price- verification tools such as Bloomberg or Global Trade Tracker, mainly due to cost constraints.

Similarly, 90 per cent of banks report having vessel-tracking mechanisms but many do not utilise internationally reputed services like Lloyd's or the International Maritime Bureau.

Besides, while customer-risk scoring is applied universally, only 45 per cent of the banks have implemented enhanced due-diligence policies tailored specifically to trade-based clients.

Many banks rely on manual assessments without uniform benchmarks, leading to discrepancies in risk grading and inconsistent application of controls, it says.

The absence of dedicated price-verification units in most public banks and the use of subjective judgment by trade officers further complicate their enforcement.

The report mentions that TBML is not explicitly listed as a predicate offence in the Money Laundering Prevention Act 2012, although the law does provide for the prosecution and confiscation of assets linked to illicit financial flows through trade.

Recent updates to the BFIU's guidelines and the universally recognised national goAML platform have improved the reporting of TBML-linked suspicious transactions, but the overall detection rate still remains low.

A key concern highlighted in the study is a lack of integration and coordination among regulatory bodies, including the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU), the National Board of Revenue (NBR), customs authorities, and commercial banks.

"The disjointed systems prevent real-time sharing of trade, shipment, and payment data--an essential component in tracking phantom shipments, circular trades, and mispriced invoices," says the study report.

The BIBM analysis also points out a weak compliance culture within the banking sector.

Many institutions treat TBML controls as a box-ticking exercise rather than a core component of operational risk management, it says, stressing a shift in institutional mindset, where board-level leadership takes ownership of AML responsibilities and invests in staff training, trade analytics, and audit processes.

Global best practices--from countries such as Singapore, Chile, Finland and Sri Lanka--illustrate how integrated trade-and-payment data systems, beneficial ownership transparency, and structured public-private cooperation can strengthen TBML enforcement.

Such examples also demonstrate that visible and proportionate penalties, combined with incentives for clean trade, enhance compliance across financial institutions.

The report adds closing Bangladesh's TBML-enforcement gap is not merely a regulatory obligation but a development necessity.

Without urgent action, the country risks continued revenue loss, distorted trade data, and potentially damaging consequences such as FATF grey-listing, higher correspondent banking costs, and reputational harm in global markets.

Among the key recommendations are establishment of a national Trade Transparency Unit (TTU), the publication of a public beneficial ownership register, expanded use of dynamic price-benchmarking tools, and formalised information-sharing arrangements with regional trading partners.

The study findings indicate that Bangladesh's vulnerability to TBML remains both a governance and competitiveness challenge.

As the country pursues export-led growth and seeks to preserve its foreign-exchange buffers, improved enforcement of anti-TBML standards will be critical to sustaining economic integrity.​

 

[Saif]

Trade-based money laundering

It is hardly surprising that the issue of money laundering continues to resurface, as it remains a stark and persistent reality the country is forced to confront without any foreseeable remedy. For long, there have been concerns raised from various quarters, and over time it seems as though this 'c

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Trade-based money laundering

FE
Published :
Jul 25, 2025 00:10
Updated :
Jul 25, 2025 00:10

It is hardly surprising that the issue of money laundering continues to resurface, as it remains a stark and persistent reality the country is forced to confront without any foreseeable remedy. For long, there have been concerns raised from various quarters, and over time it seems as though this 'concern' is a cyclic expression of frustration and anger. The issue, because of its enormity and scale, has been receiving media focus for quite a while -- set off by rough estimates about the money flown off the country to so called tax heavens and overseas financial institutions. Lately, a government estimate has revealed that the country loses US$16 billion annually through trade-based money laundering alone primarily due to lax oversight of trading operations. The scale of this outflow is staggering. It accounts for around 3.4 per cent of the country's GDP, surpassing even the national budget for public health. The Bangladesh Institute of Bank Management (BIBM), in a study based on surveys across 37 commercial banks, reports that about 75 per cent of all domestic money laundering cases are linked to trade channels. The sectors most affected include textiles, consumer goods, and petroleum imports.

Despite policy alignment with global anti-money laundering (AML) standards --such as risk-based customer due diligence, price verification protocols, and real-time monitoring -- the actual implementation remains inconsistent. Although the banks surveyed claim to have sanctions-screening and trade-monitoring systems, only 50 per cent use global price verification tools like Bloomberg or Global Trade Tracker, often citing cost as a barrier. Similarly, 90 per cent of banks have vessel-tracking systems, but few rely on established platforms such as Lloyd's or the International Maritime Bureau. While most institutions apply customer risk scoring, only 45 per cent have enhanced due diligence frameworks tailored to trade-specific risks. Moreover, many public banks lack dedicated price verification units, leaving trade officers to rely on subjective judgment -- an approach that severely undermines oversight. The legal framework also poses challenges. Notably, the Money Laundering Prevention Act 2012 does not explicitly list TBML as a predicate offence, although it provides for prosecution and asset seizure linked to illicit trade-related flows. A critical gap lies in the lack of coordination between key regulatory bodies such as the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU), National Board of Revenue (NBR), customs authorities, and commercial banks. The absence of real-time data sharing on trade, shipments, and payments creates loopholes that are exploited through phantom shipments, circular trading, and invoice manipulation.

Global best practices provide a way forward. Countries like Singapore, Finland, and Sri Lanka have successfully implemented integrated trade and payment data systems, strengthened beneficial ownership transparency, and structured public-private collaboration. These measures, coupled with proportionate penalties and incentives for clean trade, have significantly improved compliance.

Addressing TBML is not merely a regulatory obligation but a development imperative. Without urgent action, Bangladesh risks continued revenue losses, distorted trade statistics, and damaging consequences such as Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey-listing, higher correspondent banking costs, and reputational harm in global markets.​

 

[Saif]

Government halts flats-for-July martyrs project over inflated cost, corruption claims

The government has turned down a housing project for the families of those killed during the student-led anti-discrimination protests in July last year, amid concerns over inflated costs and allegations of corruption. On Sunday, at the first Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (EC

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Government halts flats-for-July martyrs project over inflated cost, corruption claims

bdnews24.com
Published :
Jul 28, 2025 00:24
Updated :
Jul 28, 2025 00:24

The government has turned down a housing project for the families of those killed during the student-led anti-discrimination protests in July last year, amid concerns over inflated costs and allegations of corruption.

On Sunday, at the first Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) meeting of fiscal year 2025–26, the project failed to gain approval.

“It should be properly cost-evaluated before any decision,” said Planning Advisor Wahiduddin Mahmud at a post-meeting press conference.

The project was submitted by the Ministry of Housing and Public Works. It proposed building 804 flats of 1,355 sq ft each on government land in Mirpur, with a budget of Tk 7.61 billion, to be completed between July 2025 and June 2029.

“This was a well-intentioned proposal, but we didn’t approve it because we believe the cost must be assessed more carefully before the tendering process,” Wahiduddin said.

The project had earlier come under scrutiny during a Jun 16 evaluation by the Planning Commission’s Project Evaluation Committee (PEC), which flagged implementation challenges.

Subsequent media reports revealed inflated expenditure estimates and possible irregularities.

Wahiduddin further noted the lack of clarity surrounding multiple aid efforts for the same families.

“When different ministries start offering varied forms of support, overlaps and gaps become difficult to track,” he said. He stressed the need for a comprehensive and coordinated approach, bringing together all housing, stipend, and disability aid schemes for the victims’ families under one umbrella.

“There are also larger questions,” he added. “Why Mirpur? Why only Dhaka? What about families living in rural areas or other cities? The matter of inheritance will also arise when allocating permanent flats. These require deeper planning.”

Ultimately, the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs will be tasked with coordinating these efforts, he confirmed.

DHAKA UNIVERSITY PROJECT

Despite the rejected flats proposal, ECNEC approved 12 projects worth Tk 81.49 billion, including a major initiative for Dhaka University’s infrastructure overhaul.

The Tk 28.4 billion five-year plan for the university includes:

Six academic buildings
Five male and four female dormitories accommodating 7,700 students
Two residential buildings for teachers and officers
A stadium, DUCSU building, and other administrative facilities
Reflecting on his own student and teaching days, Wahiduddin said: “Though income levels have improved, housing conditions in the university have worsened.”

Given the university’s space constraints, some old structures will be demolished to make room for high-rise buildings while preserving heritage sites like Salimullah Muslim Hall and Curzon Hall.

OTHER PROJECTS

Tk 2.78 billion: Revised road construction along Karnafuli river (Kalurghat Bridge to Chaktai Canal), up by Tk 4.69 billion
Tk 6.5 billion: Establishment and reconstruction of 20 fire stations nationwide
Tk 7.57 billion: Upgraded logistics and maintenance facilities for the Coast Guard
Tk 13.43 billion: Rural sanitation and canal excavation in Chattogram, cost reduced by Tk 1.94 billion
Tk 17.91 billion: Railway maintenance and rehabilitation in the eastern zone
Tk 2.34 billion: Mirpur cantonment officers' mess and bachelor quarters, cost up by Tk 754.5 million
Tk 3.95 billion: Women’s income-generating training (second phase)
Tk 1.6 billion: Expansion of museum and infrastructure at Folk and Crafts Foundation
Tk 1 billion: Tuber crop research strengthening
Tk 7.7 billion: Smart pre-paid metering project under BPDB, cost increased by Tk 1.5 billion​