The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has decided to file a petition with the High Court, challenging a lower court’s order that permitted Orion Group Chairman Obaidul Karim to travel abroad.
The Commission’s Deputy Director, Akhtarul Islam, disclosed the decision during a regular press briefing on Monday.
According to Akhtarul Islam, the ACC will swiftly file a revision petition in the High Court to challenge the legal validity of the lower court’s directive and seek a stay order on it.
On Sunday, a court granted Karim permission to travel abroad for three months following a hearing on his application. The ACC resolved to appeal the decision shortly after the order was passed.
ACC officials stated that Karim is currently facing multiple investigations within the commission, alongside active lawsuits.
The watchdog is currently scrutinising allegations against him concerning the acquisition of illegal wealth, financial irregularities, and inconsistencies in financial transactions. Consequently, the commission is viewing the travel clearance with gravity.
Officials expressed concern that allowing an accused or suspect to travel abroad during ongoing legal proceedings could disrupt the investigation and subsequent judicial processes.
It is this risk that prompted the commission’s decision to contest the lower court’s ruling in the High Court.
The final decision regarding Obaidul Karim’s foreign travel will be determined once the High Court hears the ACC’s revision petition.
