Tarique insists recovering looted assets

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has called on the interim government to take decisive action against corruption and recover embezzled funds. 

He also urged the fallen Awami League to return misappropriated public money promptly.

In a social media post on Sunday (December 8), Tarique Rahman said, "The White Paper Preparation Committee's report reveals an unprecedented level of corruption during the Hasina government’s tenure, exposing the dismal state of the country's economy. The systemic theft established by the Hasina administration is clearly outlined in the report."

Key revelations of corruption

Highlighting key findings from the White Paper Preparation Committee's report, Tarique claimed:

$240 Billion Laundered: Approximately $240 billion was siphoned out of the country over the past 15 years.

Development Projects as Cover: $8 billion was allegedly embezzled through 29 large-scale development projects.

Quick Rental Projects: These were purportedly a facade for enriching individuals by exploiting the public under the guise of addressing infrastructure issues.

Emphasis on reforms

Tarique also iterated BNP’s commitment to structural reforms as part of its 31-point agenda for state rebuilding. He emphasised:

Effective Anti-Corruption Commission (13th Point): An independent commission to ensure transparency and prevent misuse of public funds.

Economic Reform Commission (15th Point): This proposed body aims to bring accountability to economic management and curb systemic corruption.

Call to act

Urging immediate steps based on the report’s revelations, Tarique pressed the interim government to:

Recover Embezzled Money: Swiftly repatriate misappropriated funds.

Ensure Accountability: Prosecute those responsible for financial misconduct.