Corruption is normalized in Bangladesh by her newly appointed minister
The Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has described Road Transport and Bridges Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam’s recent remarks on extortion in the transport sector as “deeply disappointing” and an attempt to legitimise a serious offence. In a statement today (20 February), TIB expressed concern and condemnation over the minister’s comment that money collected from transport operators on the roads under a “mutual understanding” cannot be termed extortion. Responding to the remark, TIB Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman said, “The definition of extortion presented by the minister contradicts the strong anti-corruption stance declared by members of the cabinet upon assuming office.” “Not even 48 hours after the head of government’s address to the nation reaffirmed commitments to effectively control and prevent corruption, the minister’s protective comment on the extortion in the transport sector is extremely disappointing,” he added. Iftekharuzzaman alleged that by positively...
