Recover stolen wealth, prosecute the corrupt

BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman yesterday called on the interim government to recover stolen wealth and take swift action against the “unprecedented scale of corruption” under the Sheikh Hasina administration.

In a Facebook post, Tarique referred to findings from a recent report by the White Paper Preparation Committee on Bangladesh’s economic condition.

“The findings paint a grim picture, exposing her administration as a kleptocracy defined by systematic looting of public resources.”

Tarique pointed to the report’s estimate that $240 billion was siphoned out of the country over the last 15 years, including $8 billion misappropriated from 29 major development projects.

Tarique criticised “quick rental” energy initiatives as profiteering schemes, warning that deeper scrutiny into the banking sector could uncover even more widespread corruption.

The BNP leader emphasised the urgency of economic reform and highlighted his party’s 31-point reform agenda, including measures to combat systemic failures and rebuild the economy.

“Central to this agenda is the establishment of an effective Anti-Corruption Commission, as outlined in the 13th point. This institution, if implemented, will play a critical role in ending the rampant misappropriation of public funds and ensuring accountability across all sectors,” Tarique said.

He also underscored the importance of creating an Economic Reform Commission, a key aspect of the BNP’s 15th point, aimed at fostering transparency, strengthening public institutions, and establishing a corruption-free administration.

“The time for change is now. Our nation cannot afford further mismanagement,” he added, reiterating BNP’s commitment to building a transparent, accountable, and equitable governance system.