BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has claimed that the absence of accountability within the government has resulted in a dramatic increase in corruption across the country.
Speaking at the launch of the book “Arthoneeti, Shashon O Khomota” (Economy, Governance and Power) by Dr Hossain Zillur Rahman on Saturday (26 July) at the SIRDAP auditorium in Segunbagicha, Dhaka, Fakhrul addressed the broader structural and moral failures he sees in governance.
“The government is attempting reforms, but reform is not an overnight process. It is meant for the people, and a shift in public mentality is required. Political parties are not outside society—they operate within it,” he said.
Citing an example shared by a businessman, Fakhrul stated:
“Previously, a bribe of one lakh taka could get things done; now the same task costs five lakh. Even the police are shirking responsibility. Nothing can be forced—it’s a process. If we wish to safeguard democracy, we must follow the correct procedures.”
He further emphasised that:
“To protect democracy, political reform and accountability are essential.”
Fakhrul’s remarks underline the BNP’s longstanding critique of the ruling administration, particularly with regard to alleged institutional inefficiencies and corruption.
| Issue | Statement from Mirza Fakhrul |
| Lack of accountability | Driving significant rise in corruption |
| Governance reforms | Not effective without change in public mindset |
| Example of corruption | Bribes reportedly increased from Tk 1 lakh to Tk 5 lakh |
| Role of law enforcement | Police avoiding responsibilities |
| Democratic protection | Requires accountability and political reform |
The event reflected ongoing public discourse on the intersection of economics, governance, and democratic principles in Bangladesh.
