The absence of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) for the first 100 days of the government is “self-defeating,” Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman has said.
He made the remarks on Sunday at a press conference at the TIB office.
He said it was concerning that no visible initiative had been taken within 100 days of the government formation to establish important commissions such as the ACC, the Human Rights Commission and the Information Commission.
He also raised concerns over the independence of the judiciary.
TIB evaluated the first 100 days of the BNP government, describing the period as both hopeful and promising on one hand, and concerning on the other due to a lack of a clear roadmap for governance, anti-corruption measures and accountability-based governance.
At the press conference, he highlighted various challenges and potential issues related to the government’s performance.
He repeatedly expressed concern over the absence of the ACC, Human Rights Commission and Information Commission.
Iftekharuzzaman said the government has taken a self-defeating position regarding the ACC. He said the existence of the commission is essential and its absence for three months is “very unfortunate and embarrassing.”
Iftekharuzzaman also said that transferring ACC jurisdiction to a secretary must be resisted.
He further raised concerns over political affiliation-based appointments in various institutions. He expressed regret over the lack of independence in the judiciary.
TIB Executive Director criticised the government for failing to control law and order, despite announcing zero tolerance against mob culture and strict warnings against extortion.
In response to a question, he said the ACC should investigate allegations of corruption against some former advisers of the interim government, adding that no one is above accountability.
