Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has launched a significant investigation against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her family over serious allegations of embezzling $5 billion from the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant project, the country’s first nuclear facility. The probe not only targets Hasina but also extends to her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, and her niece, Tulip Siddiq, who serves as the UK’s Treasury Minister, reports indicate.
The ACC initiated its inquiry following claims made by Bobby Hajjaj, the chairman of the National Democratic Movement (NDM). He accused the Hasina family of illicitly transferring substantial funds to a Malaysian bank account. This investigation picks up momentum after the High Court recently questioned the ACC’s prior lack of action, pushing the commission to finally take steps amid growing public pressure.
The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant is under construction approximately 160 kilometers west of Dhaka, with the Russian state-owned corporation Rosatom leading the project alongside Indian companies. This nuclear facility is regarded as pivotal for Bangladesh's energy future, but these allegations have cast shadows over its development.
Currently, Hasina remains outside Bangladesh after fleeing to India on August 5, following massive protests led by students against her regime, which lasted for 16 years. Her sister, Rehana, also fled with her, and the family is reportedly under scrutiny by law enforcement linked to multiple serious allegations, including charges of crimes against humanity related to the political unrest.
The High Court’s inquiry came shortly after public statements from various political figures raised serious questions about the integrity of the ACC. It challenged the commission, asking why there had been no substantive investigation or legal action taken with respect to these significant allegations of corruption.
The Ramifications of this investigation are vast. Should the allegations prove to be true, they could seriously undermine the remaining political standing of Hasina’s family, particularly with her niece Tulip Siddiq being involved at the ministerial level within the UK government.
Further complicate matters, Rosatom has strongly refuted the allegations. According to officials, Rosatom pointed out its commitment to transparency, stating, “Rosatom State Corporation refutes provocative statements about the implementation of the Rooppur NPP project. We believe false statements are attempts to discredit the Rooppur NPP project, which aims to resolve Bangladesh’s energy supply issues and improve the lives of its citizens.”
Alongside the corruption allegations, Hasina and several former officials are dealing with much graver accusations from the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), which has issued arrest warrants for them, framed under accusations of crimes against humanity and genocide. This well-timed probe and the legal actions could change the political fabric of Bangladesh as the country navigates through these turbulent waters.
The ACC is expected to conduct thorough investigations, examining the financial records of the Rooppur project and any potential links to offshore accounts or illicit transfers associated with Hasina and her family. The overall impact of this corruption case hinges on how the ACC handles the investigation moving forward, as public trust and national integrity are at stake.
Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has already reacted to the situation, sending India formal requests for the extradition of Sheikh Hasina, indicating the commitment of the current administration to hold former officials accountable. Foreign adviser Touhid Hossain confirmed, “We sent a note verbal to the Indian government saying the Bangladesh government wants her back here for judicial process.” This development underlines the serious legal challenges facing Hasina and indicates the government’s approach to dealing with high-profile allegations critically.
The political climate remains tense with rising protests, accusations, and investigations swirling around prominent figures. For many citizens, this is not just about alleged embezzlement; it reflects broader concerns over governance, transparency, and the rule of law. The eyes of the nation and international observers alike will be closely tracking the outcomes of this investigation and its effects on Bangladesh’s political future.
