Allegations of rampant bribery and abuse of power during Bangladesh's 18-month interim government warrant an independent investigation to restore the rule of law and public trust, according to a new report. The findings, citing Transparency International Bangladesh survey data, indicate that over Tk 12,633 crore was paid in bribes across service sectors between November 2024 and October 2025.

Scale of Alleged Corruption

More than 81 per cent of households surveyed reported finding it extremely difficult to access government services without paying bribes. Services related to passports, the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA), law enforcement, land administration, and judicial services topped the list for reported corruption.

The report, published by Dhaka-based Daily Sun, noted that hundreds of formal complaints subsequently flooded the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC). Those named ranged from former chief adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus — over matters concerning Grameen institutional funds and tax issues — to various sector advisers.

Accusations Against Energy and Administrative Officials

The report also highlighted accusations against former energy advisers over their dealings with private power companies. Additional allegations cover judicial postings, administrative transfers, procurement management, and the broader abuse of official power — pointing to systemic concerns rather than isolated incidents.

Capital Flight and Swiss Bank Deposits

Deposits by Bangladeshi nationals in Swiss banks rose approximately 41.5 per cent in 2025 to nearly 834.16 million Swiss francs, compared with about 589.54 million Swiss francs in 2024, according to the report. This sharp increase is cited as evidence of capital flight.

'While the interim administration had promised to address capital flight, these metrics suggest that large sums continued to leave the country during its own time in office,' the report argued. The contradiction between the government's stated commitments and the data, critics argue, underscores the urgency of an independent probe.

ACC Independence Under Scrutiny

Under Section 3(2) of the Anti-Corruption Commission Act of 2004, the ACC is mandated to function as an independent body. However, the report noted that the commission has often awaited political direction before acting — a pattern that raises doubts about its capacity to investigate figures from within the very administration it operated alongside.

The Daily Sun warned that 'sweeping these allegations under the rug dishonours the sacrifices made during the mass uprising,' and called for an impartial and rigorous investigation. With Bangladesh's political transition still fragile, the credibility of any probe will likely hinge on whether the ACC can demonstrate genuine independence from political influence.