During the era of autocracy, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and the judiciary were subservient to Sheikh Hasina, commented Professor Dr Asif Nazrul, the Law and Parliamentary Affairs Adviser to the interim government.
Speaking at an event organized on Monday (December 9) to mark International Anti-Corruption Day, he stated that the absence of justice has entrenched corruption in society. He noted, "The ACC existed, the higher courts existed, but there was no justice. Justice was served only against Khaleda Zia."
Dr Iftekharuzzaman, head of the commission established for ACC reforms, said that corrupt individuals have long occupied Bangladesh's state institutions, ensuring impunity for all wrongdoings. This has given rise to corrupt authoritarian governments.
He added, "In the course of reform efforts, horrifying instances of corruption within state institutions, including ACC officials, have surfaced. A comprehensive crackdown is now the only way forward."
Mohammad Akhtar Hossain, Director General (Prevention) of the ACC, emphasized, "If we can cultivate a virtuous generation, building an anti-corruption society will become easier. It is not enough to undertake remedial actions against corruption, there must be installed anti-corruption awareness in everyone."
Khorsheda Yasmin, Secretary of the Anti-Corruption Commission, stated, "Corruption is a significant obstacle to the country's development, and we must fight it unitedly to bring it under control."
She concluded by reaffirming their commitment to fight against corruption, inspired by the ideals of July's spirit.
