The interim government of Bangladesh has escalated its investigation of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, placing the probe of her alleged corruption at the forefront of its priorities. This investigation has sparked considerable attention as it hinges on serious allegations of embezzlement and misappropriation involving billions of dollars.
At a press conference following the latest advisory council meeting at the Foreign Service Academy, Chief Advisor’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam confirmed, "We have started working on Sheikh Hasina’s corruption cases. More details will be available soon. This is our top priority." This marked the beginning of what many are viewing as potentially one of the largest corruption investigations the country has ever seen.
The Bangladesh Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) is investigating claims totaling Tk 800 billion (approximately $9.4 billion) linked to several priority projects under Hasina's leadership. Not only are allegations directed at Hasina herself, but they also implicate close family members including her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy, her sister Sheikh Rehana, and Rehana’s daughter Tulip Siddiq, who is also the UK’s anti-corruption minister.
Alam emphasized the urgency of the investigation, asserting, "The people of Bangladesh want to know who was involved in this grand theft. It is our moral obligation to inform them." He labeled the previous administration as one characterized by kleptocracy, stating, "The scale of her theft will soon be evident. According to the white paper, $16 billion have been siphoned out of Bangladesh every year. This is the money of the Bangladeshi people." The press secretary's remarks suggest not only the gravity of the accusations but also the political motivations underlying the probes.
Specific allegations are focused on significant corruption linked to the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant project, noted to exceed $5 billion. This project, backed by Russia’s state-owned Rosatom, has been under scrutiny since its inception. The contract, valued at $12.65 billion and signed in 2015, included the construction of two power plants with total capacities of 2,400 MW. Questions were raised after it was alleged there was a transfer of $5 billion to a Malaysian bank associated with several key figures.
While the investigation is making headlines, Sajeeb Wazed Joy has openly denounced the graft probe, branding it as "completely bogus" and part of what he claims is a political smear campaign against their family. Speaking to Reuters, he asserted, "These are completely bogus allegations and a smear campaign. My family nor I have ever been involved or taken any money from any government projects…It is not possible to siphon off billions from a $10 billion project. We also don't have any offshore accounts." His defense portrays the family as victims of political maneuvering rather than perpetrators of financial crime.
The interim government’s launch of this investigation could have broad ramifications for Bangladesh's political scene. With tensions already high, the decision to focus on Sheikh Hasina's agency during her tenure could drive continued conflict between her political party, the Awami League, and the current governing body. Amid these developments, Tulip Siddiq has reportedly denied any involvement, affirming her position as the UK's treasury minister remains secure.
On December 17, the ACC formed a five-member team led by Deputy Director Md Salahuddin to investigate the numerous allegations. This team will inquire not only about potential corruption surrounding the nuclear project but also claims extending up to Tk 210 billion linked to eight special priority schemes from the Awami League’s time in office, and Tk 590 billion concerning the Rooppur project. Recently, the ACC also initiated investigations surrounding accusations of money laundering alleging $300 million tied directly to Hasina and Joy.
The coming weeks are expected to bring clarity to these allegations, especially as the ACC has requested supporting documents from the Chief Advisor’s Office. There is widespread anticipation across the nation as allegations mount, and the interim government asserts it is committed to unearthing the purported systemic corruption within the previous administration.
This investigation is not only about financial misconduct; it symbolizes the fierce political battle shaping contemporary Bangladesh. So far, Hasina has not made public appearances since she fled to New Delhi earlier this year. Many speculate about her next moves as the investigation intensifies.
With accusations flowing from both sides, this saga highlights the struggle for power and the extent of corruption alleged to plague governance. The outcome of this graft probe could feasibly influence the future political climate of Bangladesh, and as such, it has become more than just legal proceedings—it is being seen as part of Bangladesh's larger narrative concerning transparency, governance, and public trust.
