Berlin-based anti-corruption watchdog Transparency International has found serious problems with anti-corruption efforts in Bangladesh.
Only 10% of the corruption in Bangladesh lead to a conviction because of a “political ticket to impunity,” they said.
The watchdog group also found problems with other South Asian countries such as India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka in its latest report.
CORRUPTION PERCEPTIONS INDEX 2013
“Governments in corruption-stricken South Asia must allow anti-corruption agencies to investigate and prosecute corruption independently,” a press release said.
The report “Fighting Corruption in South Asia: Building Accountability” analysed the anti-graft situation in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
The lack of political will on the part of the governments to make laws work means that government action to fight corruption is largely ineffective, the report said.
Governments are able to influence what cases come under scrutiny by placing allies in key positions, the report warned.
“This effectively makes political power a ticket to impunity for corruption. In Bangladesh, for example, only 10% of corruption cases lead to conviction.”
South Asian countries lack the whistleblower protection, disclosure of public information and independent watchdog agencies that are central to fostering a culture of accountability where ordinary citizens can monitor and hold government officials to task, the report said.
Transparency International called for protecting watchdog institutions such as the judiciary and anti-corruption commissions from political influence.
The full report of the Transparency International has been attached for your viewing pleasure.