The Anti-Corruption Commission’s 2013 annual report says the ACC could be more effective in its work, if its powers were independently set out under the constitution.
Unlike similar bodies in other countries, and unlike the Election Commission, there is no provision in the Bangladesh constitution delineating the power of the ACC.
In view of the obstacles which the ACC faces in fulfilling its role, there is merit in its observation that a clearer constitutional framework would help it in securing co-operation and information from government agencies and organisations.
Transparency International Bangladesh has supported this view, making the case that a constitutional framework would help keep the ACC free from influence and make it truly independent.
An independent budgetary allocation for the ACC in the national budget could help minimise political pressure.
Unfortunately, political pressures on the commission were increased by the change made last year, making it mandatory for the ACC to obtain government approval for filing cases against judges, magistrates and public servants.
This requirement greatly hinders the independence of the ACC. It needs to be removed to give the country the effective anti-graft body which it needs, and which the government has said it supports in its pledges to show zero tolerance for corruption.
This would not require any constitutional change, but would increase public confidence by sending a strong signal that corruption will not be tolerated.
Acting quickly to empower the ACC in this way would help its work, while allowing time to consider its proposal for constitutional independence.
