Faiz Ahmed Taiyeb leaves country
Faiz Ahmed Taiyeb, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser on Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, has left the country. He departed Bangladesh on Saturday (14 February) morning, according to multiple airport sources and individuals close to him.
When contacted regarding speculation about his departure, Taiyeb did not directly clarify the matter but told Jago News via WhatsApp that he had formally been given a farewell by the ministry. “I took leave from the office on the 9th and 10th. I was formally bid farewell by the ministry,” he said.
A person involved in policy formulation who worked with Taiyeb told Jago News that he left the country in the morning. Although a Dutch citizen, it remains unclear which country he travelled to. “We are not sure whether he went to the Netherlands or Germany,” the source said.
Meanwhile, Susmit Asif, a close associate of Taiyeb, wrote in a WhatsApp group that Taiyeb had already taken official leave from the office on February 9 and 10. “He was formally given a farewell by two divisions of the ministry. I attended both events along with ministry officials. He will now return to normal life and has left today to be with his family. Please keep him in your prayers,” the message read.
Airport sources said Taiyeb left Bangladesh at 9:55am as a passenger on Emirates Airlines flight EK-583. He reportedly used a Netherlands passport while departing the country.
Responding to allegations of irregularities and corruption, Taiyeb told Jago News via WhatsApp that he had done his utmost during his short tenure. “I introduced new management, new technology, and transparency in a highly corrupt ministry. I worked tirelessly to change outdated laws and policies — tasks that normally require five years,” he said.
“I swear before Allah that I have not committed even one taka of corruption. I am, by nature, an honest person. I cannot accept accusations of financial misconduct. Mobile business groups and telecom mafias have campaigned against me because I did not bow to them,” he added.
Taiyeb said he plans to look for a job soon and return to normal life. “I came to the country leaving behind a safe life and being separated from my wife and children. Some people tried to insult and humiliate me in every possible way. At times, I feel that a large section of this country does not deserve honest and knowledge-driven leadership. This has hurt me deeply. I live simply and remain honest and transparent to myself. Please pray for me,” he said.