Dr Mohammad Abdul Momen, Chairman of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), stated on Tuesday that corruption cannot be reduced if individuals involved in corruption, extortion, and terrorism are elected in the election.
He made the remarks while chairing an ACC-organised discussion session at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy's National Theatre Hall Auditorium on International Anti-Corruption Day 2025.
Dr Salehuddin Ahmed, Finance Adviser, was the chief guest, with Dr A K Enamul Haque, Director General of the Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies, serving as the special guest.
Dr Momen claimed that over the last 15 years, political elites have arranged safe passage across the border for those involved in corruption after receiving crores of taka. "What will happen if they gain power?" "We must exercise caution before they assume power," he warned.
Referring to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the ACC Chairman stated that her 2008 asset declaration included 5.1 acres of land, which matched the tax file. However, investigations uncovered 29 acres.
"If this had been discovered at the time, her nomination might have been cancelled. If her nomination had been withdrawn, she would not have become an MP or Prime Minister, and it was unclear whether her party would have gained power. That is why we must be prepared in advance," he stated.
He highlighted the corruption that occurred during the 15-year Awami League government, claiming that discrepancies in asset declarations were common.
"On August 5, before the prime minister fled, the finance minister, the governor, and everyone else in the financial system fled. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court has also fled. Even the Khatib from Baitul Mukarram Mosque fled. "This is the most serious example of corruption," he added.
Dr Momen discussed various aspects of corruption, stating that once money is transferred abroad, the chances of recovery are slim, and the countries involved frequently have poor relations with Bangladesh.
"Where the corrupt money goes, there is no one to work; it is difficult to manage, but we must send someone at the fast secretary level," he said.
Referring to the multifaceted nature of corruption, he stated that money is now being laundered using cryptocurrency, and there is currently no training to combat it.
"In such cases, we must strengthen our office and devise strategies to prevent it. However, we cannot do it on our own," he added.
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