A deeply rooted problem like corruption has been affecting many spheres and impeding Bangladesh's development. The systemic character of corruption still presents major challenges even if the government tries to fight this threat. The narrative of Abed Ali, a former driver of a high-ranking government official who accumulated huge wealth, is among the most arresting depictions of this ubiquitous issue.
Not limited to one industry, corruption in Bangladesh is now a general plague influencing infrastructure, healthcare, education, and other spheres. Dishonest behaviour among those in power has constantly undermined government attempts to bring order back into the different sectors. These illicit activities seriously hinder reaching objectives and thus influence the course of the country.
The activities of the Bangladesh Public Service Commission (BPSC), where reports of unethical behaviour and anomalies abound, highlight this even more. These dishonest actions damage the legitimacy of organizations expected to preserve integrity and justice, and uphold public confidence.
In recent times, Bangladesh's Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has reacted aggressively in response to mounting worries about corruption. Aiming to discourage such behaviours through rigorous law enforcement, the ACC's activities include looking at and punishing dishonest authorities. In keeping with its political promise, the government's backing of these steps emphasizes its will to fight corruption.
Still, some people wonder if the ACC's efforts are really effective. Although considerable improvement has been made, the profoundly ingrained nature of corruption calls for a more all-encompassing and continuous strategy. The effectiveness of the ACC depends on its capability to run free from political intervention, function autonomously, and fight corruption at all levels -- including top officials.
The story of Abed Ali, a former driver of BPSC chairman, has captured national interest. According to media news, Abed Ali amassed a sizable wealth despite his low status. This begs the important issue of how a driver might have accumulated such wealth.
The solution is in the uncovering of an intricate network of corruption spanning institutional problems inside government agencies to individual acts and ensuring punishment. Abed Ali's case emphasizes the presence of strong networks of dishonest authorities that support and cover people engaged in illicit behaviour. These "big bosses" enable corruption so that those at lesser levels -- like Abed Ali -- may operate without restriction.
Coverage of Abed Ali's tale by the media spurred a lot of indignation and demands for responsibility. But without authentic investigation, it is yet unknown how extensive his contacts are or how he came to have his riches. This example reminds us very strongly of the importance of strong policies to destroy networks of corruption and assign responsibility to all parties.
Over the past 15 years, the Bangladeshi government -- led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina -- has made notable advancements. Still, these achievements are often eclipsed by ongoing corruption and poor governance. Understanding the negative effects of corruption, the winning Awami League has strengthened its will to solve these problems in its electoral pledges.
The Awami League has underlined its will to eradicate corruption and strengthen the government. This involves acting forcefully against powerful government officials connected to unethical behaviour. Although these actions are admirable, they have to be part of a more comprehensive plan aiming at the systematic sources of corruption.
Dealing with corruption in Bangladesh calls for a multifarious strategy that goes beyond punishing specific individuals. It entails improving institutions, increasing openness, and thereby fostering an accountable culture. Important steps are needed to guarantee the ACC's independence and give it the tools it needs to investigate cases and launch prosecutions.
Strengthening the court to provide fair and quick trials for corruption charges, therefore discouraging possible offenders putting strong systems in place to safeguard those who reveal dishonest behaviour and motivating more people to come forward. People's awareness about the negative consequences of corruption needs to be increased by employing ongoing awareness programmes. There is a need to work with foreign agencies to track and reclaim assets illegally acquired and concealed overseas by dishonest officials.
The Abed Ali case emphasizes how urgently Bangladesh's corruption has to be fought with a thorough and continuous campaign. Although the government's dedication is a first step of importance, it is imperative to translate this will into concrete measures. This entails aiming not only at the "foot soldiers" of corruption like Abed Ali but also the "big bosses" who support and prolong these behaviours.
The success of the government in combating corruption will be judged on its capacity to provide an open and responsible framework free from the possibility of impunity. All those involved -- including civil society, the media, and the international community -- have to work together deliberately. Working together, Bangladesh can eradicate corruption and create a better, more fair future for its people.
One of the most important problems Bangladesh has been confronting is corruption. The entrenched character of corruption calls for a more all-encompassing and consistent strategy even with government initiatives and the proactive participation of the ACC. The narrative of Abed Ali reminds us shockingly of the scope of the issue and the necessity of strong actions to destroy networks of corruption.
The government's will to fight corruption has to be matched by forceful efforts aimed at both lower-level agents and top officials as it advances. Bangladesh can open the path for a fairer and richer future by strengthening institutions, encouraging openness, and thereby building a culture of responsibility. Though the road to eradicating corruption is long and difficult, it is a fight one may win with relentless persistence and group effort.
Dr Pranab Kumar Panday is a Professor in the Department of Public Administration at the University of Rajshahi.
