Speaking on the occasion of International Anti-Corruption Day 2024, Nazrul criticized the widespread corruption over the past 15 years, citing instances such as exorbitant pricing of goods and unchecked criminal enterprises.
“A Tk100 pillow was sold for Tk4,000-5,000. A known criminal amassed billions through casino businesses, while a prime minister casually mentioned a peon possessing Tk400 crore during a press conference," he remarked.
He questioned the lack of accountability, saying, “Despite the existence of the ACC and judiciary, no action was taken against these crimes. Only Khaleda Zia was punished, while the whole family of Sheikh Hasina was corrupt. The ACC and judiciary became her tools.”
The event was presided over by ACC Secretary Khorsheda Yasmin, with Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) Executive Director Dr. Iftekharuzzaman serving as the special guest.
Call for Reforms and Action
Nazrul urged the ACC to seize the current opportunity to investigate corruption impartially. “No one is pressuring you anymore. Prove your ability to act fairly and meet the nation’s expectations,” he stated.
Regarding the formation of a new ACC commission, Nazrul said, “I am not directly involved in this matter, but those overseeing it understand its importance. The ACC must remain active to address the extensive corruption that occurred.”
The ACC has been without leadership since October 29, following the resignation of then-chairman Mohammad Moinuddin Abdullah and commissioners Md Jahurul Haque and Asia Khatun. Their resignations came after the interim government formed the ACC Reform Commission, tasked with drafting proposals for making the ACC more independent, effective, and impartial.
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