Of all the issues that prevent Bangladesh from reaching greater heights as a nation, none are arguably more damaging than the culture of impunity and corruption that we seem to not be able to eliminate. While we have made some progress regarding corruption, there is also no questioning that it remains a big issue for us.
It should not take any external organization or individual to remind us that holding public service officials accountable is necessary, and that sweeping the issue under a rug through measures such as transfer, dismissal, and compulsory retirement when they are found guilty of corruption and enjoying impunity are inadequate deterrents. This shielding of the corrupt within the system is also a slap in the face of the individuals who do work to serve the nation.
There is a dangerous message here - dangerous for the future health of our nation which, despite the undeniable progress, could have been in a far better position as an economy. Corruption’s adverse impacts are many and ultimately leads to eroding public trust in government institutions. The last thing anybody desires is a disconnect between a government and the people.
If we truly want to remain on the right path, then it is vital that we weed out the corrupt from within the system, instead of offering them safeguards to get away with crippling our economy. Nobody at any point should be above the law, especially at the expense of the nation.
We are on the brink of achieving major economic milestones but simultaneously also coming face to face with some of our biggest economic challenges. The time is now to bring about systemic change. This culture of impunity and corruption has persisted for far too long.
