Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Chairman Dr Mohammad Abdul Momen. File photo

DHAKA, Dec 9, 2025 (BSS) - Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Chairman Dr Mohammad Abdul Momen today said that corruption cannot be reduced if individuals involved in corruption, extortion and terrorism are elected in the election.

He made the remarks while chairing at a discussion session organized by ACC at the National Theatre Hall Auditorium of the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy here on the occasion of International Anti-Corruption Day 2025.

Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed was present as the chief guest, while Dr A K Enamul Haque, Director General of the Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies, attended as a special guest.

Dr Momen said the political elites, after taking crores of taka, have arranged safe passage across the border for those involved in corruption over the past 15 years. "What will happen if they come to power? We must remain cautious before they assume power," he cautioned.

Referring to former ousted Premier Sheikh Hasina, the ACC Chairman said that her 2008 asset declaration showed 5.1 acres of land, which matched the tax file. However, investigations revealed 29 acres. 

"If this had been detected at the time, her nomination could have been canceled. If her nomination had been canceled, she would not have become an MP or Prime Minister, and it was uncertain whether her party would have come to power. That is why we must be alert in advance," he said.

Highlighting the corruption during the 15 years of the Awami League government, he said discrepancies often appear in asset declarations. 

"On August 5, before the Prime Minister fled, the Finance Minister fled, the Governor fled, everyone in the financial system fled. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court also fled. Even the Khatib of Baitul Mukarram Mosque fled. This is the biggest example of corruption," he added.

Discussing various aspects of corruption, Dr Momen said that once money is transferred abroad, the chances of recovery are very slim, and the countries involved often do not maintain strong relations with Bangladesh. 

"Where the corrupt money goes, there is no one to work, it is difficult to manage, yet we have to send someone at the fast secretary level," he said.

Referring to the multifaceted nature of corruption, he said that money is now being laundered in the form of cryptocurrency, and there is currently no training to tackle it. 

"In such cases, we need to strengthen our office and find ways to prevent it. But it is not possible for us alone," he added.