Over a hundred corruption allegations raised against former advisers

Hundreds of written complaints have been lodged with the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) against the outgoing advisors of the interim government led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus. These allegations surfaced within a week of their departure from office, highlighting widespread public concern over potential misuse of authority.

An ACC official, speaking on condition of anonymity, noted that the sheer volume of complaints suggests a record number may be filed. Most complaints were submitted anonymously, though a few included the identities of the complainants.

According to ACC sources, all complaints will undergo rigorous verification in the same manner as previous cases. Dr. Iftekharuzzaman, Executive Director of Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB), emphasised that no individual is above the law. “If investigations confirm the allegations, the responsible parties must be held accountable,” he stated.

Key Allegations by Former Advisors

Allegations span across nearly all former advisors, including the former Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus. Complaints against Dr. Yunus focus on financial improprieties involving Grameen Telecom and Grameen Welfare, alleging that he established a trust in his own name to divert funds and evade taxes. The trust is reported to exist solely to manage Dr. Yunus’s family expenses, enabling significant tax evasion. Additionally, several complaints allege substantial offshore money transfers during his tenure.

Former Legal Advisor Dr. Asif Nazrul faces over a dozen complaints, including corruption in court case management, bail trades, judicial appointments, and other financial irregularities. One complaint claims that Dr. Nazrul granted bail to VIP defendants in exchange for millions of takas, including a case involving a major industrial group. Allegations also indicate that he profited extensively from judicial transfers and appointments in lucrative regions such as Uttara, Badda, Gulshan, and Savar.

Environment Advisor Syeda Rizwana Hasan is reportedly accused in at least eight complaints, mainly concerning embezzlement from departmental projects and illegal acquisition of property. Energy Advisor Muhammad Fawzul Kabir Khan faces allegations related to unlawful dealings with private power companies, including payments received from Summit Group. Health Advisor Nurjahan Begum is implicated in tender manipulation and procurement irregularities in hospitals.

The highest number of complaints appears to be against former Student Advisor Asif Mahmud, with ACC sources claiming allegations involving nearly 100 billion takas. These include bribery, foreign fund transfers, and illegal Bitcoin transactions. Former Information Advisor Mahfuz Alam is accused of accepting bribes in the issuance of television channel licences.

ACC sources emphasised that all complaints are currently under review, and those found credible will be formally investigated. Dr. Iftekharuzzaman of TIB reiterated that accountability must be enforced without bias, and that previous inaction while officials were in power should not recur. “If complaints are actionable, the ACC must proceed; if not, a clear rationale must be provided, ensuring no individual is unfairly targeted,” he noted.

This surge in allegations marks one of the most extensive series of complaints against former advisors in Bangladesh’s recent political history, raising urgent questions about governance and oversight during their tenure.