Is Bangladesh's Leading Economist a Victim of Political Vendetta?
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Synopsis
The arrest of economist Abul Barkat has sparked outrage among Bangladeshis, who see it as a political maneuver by the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus. This incident adds to growing concerns over the political landscape in Bangladesh and raises questions about the future of democracy in the country.
Key Takeaways
- Abul Barkat arrested amid political turmoil.
- Concerns over the integrity of the Anti-Corruption Commission.
- Similar arrests of prominent economists raise alarm.
- Public outrage reflects fears for democracy.
- Implications may affect future political stability.
Dhaka, July 11 (NationPress) Numerous individuals in Bangladesh are voicing serious concerns regarding the arrest of prominent economist Abul Barkat, labeling this incident as a continuation of the political vendetta orchestrated by the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government.
The Bangladesh Police apprehended Abul Barkat in Dhaka late Thursday, in relation to a case initiated by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).
Joint Commissioner of the Detective Branch (DB) of Dhaka Metropolitan Police, Nasirul Islam, confirmed that Barkat was taken into custody from the Dhanmondi area of the capital.
Barkat previously held the position of Chairman of the Economics Department at Dhaka University and served as the President of the Bangladesh Economic Association. He also chaired the state-owned Janata Bank PLC in Dhaka during the Awami League's governance.
In February, the ACC charged Barkat along with 22 others for embezzling approximately 2.97 billion Bangladeshi taka under the guise of the AnonTex Group.
Reports from local media indicate that the anti-corruption agency accused former Governor of Bangladesh Bank, Atiur Rahman, of colluding with Barkat to issue loans to 22 companies within the AnonTex Group via fraudulent documentation. The allegations include unethical practices carried out by Rahman and his associates, as reported by Bangladesh's prominent daily, Prothom Alo.
In a similar incident last month, Dhaka Police detained award-winning economist Shamsul Alam, a recipient of the prestigious Ekushey Padak in 2020 for his contributions to economics, who also served as State Minister for Planning during the administration of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Alam was taken into custody without any stated justification.
Islam stated, "He is currently being held at the Detective Branch (DB) office on Minto Road. A case has been filed against him, and he will be presented before the court."
Since August 2024, the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government has initiated various cases against former Prime Minister Hasina, her supporters, and government officials on dubious grounds.
The abrupt removal of Hasina last August, following violent student protests, was perceived globally as a significant blow to the democratic framework of the nation.
Point of View
I stand with the people of Bangladesh in their pursuit of justice and transparency. The political landscape is shifting, and it is crucial to ensure that such arrests do not undermine the democratic values that our nation stands for. We must demand accountability from those in power and protect the integrity of our institutions.
NationPress
14/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Abul Barkat arrested?
Abul Barkat was arrested in connection with a case filed by the Anti-Corruption Commission over allegations of embezzlement linked to the AnonTex Group.
What is the Anti-Corruption Commission?
The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) is a governmental body in Bangladesh responsible for combating corruption and promoting integrity in public life.
What are the implications of Barkat's arrest?
Barkat's arrest raises serious concerns regarding political motivations and the state of democracy in Bangladesh, as many view it as part of a broader pattern of political vendetta.
Who else has been arrested recently?
Recently, award-winning economist Shamsul Alam was also arrested under similar circumstances, raising questions about political repression in the country.
How has the public reacted to these arrests?
There has been widespread public outcry and concern among Bangladeshis, who see these arrests as politically motivated attacks on prominent figures.
