There is no denying that one of the biggest obstacles standing in the way of Bangladesh moving up in the world is the omnipresence of corruption.
Corruption is an open secret, and many simply accept it as a regular part of life.
This should not be so.
That is why it is rather encouraging to see that the Anti-Corruption Commission is taking its role seriously, with the chairman of the organization admitting to its shortcomings and addressing the problem with renewed vigour in a recent interview.
One of the most encouraging points was his assertion that the ACC is committed to be impartial in its ongoing fight against corruption, regardless of political association, wealth, or clout of the ones involved in illegal activities.
Corruption has become all too ingrained into the Bangladeshi political and governmental process, sadly, but if we are to hold on to any dreams of sustainable progress, widespread changes must be made in our bureaucratic and political processes.
Such change will take time, no doubt. But it is heartening to see the ACC understand the importance of functioning as an independent entity, free from political bias, and that corruption cannot be eliminated by one organization alone.
The public must be made to understand that corruption and illegal practices are unacceptable, and those who engage in them will be held to account: Both taking a bribe and giving a bribe constitute corruption, and neither should be tolerated.
Ultimately, all citizens, children included, should be instilled with the value that corruption is immoral and illegal, and all activities should be conducted through proper channels. If the mindset changes, so will the culture.
