Is There a Corruption Inquiry Against Sheikh Hasina's Principal Secretary?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
A corruption probe against Sheikh Hasina's former principal secretary has sparked controversy in Bangladesh. The Anti-Corruption Commission is investigating allegations of illicit wealth accumulation. As tensions rise, the implications for Hasina and her family could be significant. What does this mean for the future of Bangladeshi politics?
Key Takeaways
- Anti-Corruption Commission initiates investigation against Tofazzel Hossain Miah.
- Allegations include illicit wealth accumulation and abuse of power.
- Sheikh Hasina and her family are implicated in broader accusations.
- Properties owned by Hasina's family are subject to seizure.
- The political atmosphere in Bangladesh remains tense.
Dhaka, May 5 (NationPress) In an ongoing effort to undermine former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her associates, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has initiated an investigation into her former principal secretary, Tofazzel Hossain Miah, on charges of accumulating significant illicit wealth via corruption and abuse of power, as reported by local media on Monday.
The spokesperson for the ACC, Akhtarul Islam, confirmed the inquiry but refrained from providing further details.
According to a senior ACC official, who spoke under condition of anonymity to bdnews24, this inquiry was prompted by preliminary evidence of the allegations against Miah from the ACC's intelligence unit report.
Miah was appointed as principal secretary in 2022, and his contract was extended for an additional year in June of the previous year.
However, following the assumption of power by the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government in August last year, a notification was issued to revoke Miah's appointment.
Since last year, the interim government has issued multiple arrest warrants targeting the former Prime Minister, her family, and supporters of the Awami League.
Earlier this month, the ACC commenced a formal inquiry into claims of misappropriating funds totaling Bangladeshi taka 40 billion from the state treasury, implicating Hasina, her sister Sheikh Rehana, and former principal secretary Kamal Abdul Naser Chowdhury.
Last week, a court in Dhaka ordered the confiscation of properties owned by five members of Hasina's family, including her sister, son, and daughters.
Dhaka Metropolitan Sessions Judge Zakir Hossain Galib issued the order following a petition by the ACC, as confirmed by spokesperson Akhtarul Islam.
Previously, on April 29, the same court ordered the seizure of a flat in Gulshan valued at Tk57 lakh owned by Putul.
On March 11, the court ordered the confiscation of Sudha Sadan, the residence in Dhanmondi registered under the names of Joy and Putul.
The court also ordered the seizure of houses and eight flats registered under the names of Sheikh Rehana, Radwan Mujib Siddiq Bobby, and Tulip Rizwana Siddiq.
The total market value of these properties is estimated at Taka 8.52 crore.
Previously, Hasina's residence in the Gulshan area was also vandalized and looted, with no police report filed regarding the incident.
Hasina has accused the Yunus-led interim government of supporting mobs to assault followers of the Awami League.
Both Awami League members and various analysts suggest that the interim government is executing plans to tarnish Hasina, her family, and supporters.
It is noteworthy that in June 2024, Yunus and 13 others were charged with allegedly misappropriating over $2 million from his telecom company, Grameen Telecom.
The Anti-Corruption Agency of Bangladesh charged Yunus with misusing funds from the workers' welfare fund at Grameen Telecom, among other companies he founded.
Hasina has labeled Yunus as a usurper, asserting that he lacks constitutional legitimacy and the public mandate to govern Bangladesh, claiming he has assumed power through a meticulously orchestrated plan funded from abroad, misleading the general populace and students.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach this sensitive issue with a balanced perspective. The Anti-Corruption Commission's probe into Tofazzel Hossain Miah is a significant development, raising questions about transparency and accountability in governance. While the allegations are serious, it is essential to await further evidence and legal proceedings before drawing conclusions. The political climate remains charged, and the implications for Sheikh Hasina and her administration are profound.
NationPress
30/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the allegations against Tofazzel Hossain Miah?
Tofazzel Hossain Miah is being investigated for allegedly amassing illicit wealth through corruption and abuse of power.
Who initiated the inquiry into Miah?
The inquiry was initiated by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) of Bangladesh.
What is the role of Sheikh Hasina in this investigation?
Sheikh Hasina is implicated in a broader investigation concerning misappropriation of funds, alongside her former principal secretary.
What impact could this investigation have on Bangladeshi politics?
The investigation could have significant repercussions for Sheikh Hasina and her party, the Awami League, especially in the context of the current political climate.
What other actions have been taken against Hasina's family?
There have been multiple arrest warrants issued against Hasina's family, and the court has ordered the seizure of properties owned by them.
