ACC Being Used to Suppress Political Rivals: Asif Mahmud

PNN News Desk | Dhaka

National Citizen Party (NCP) spokesperson Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan has alleged that the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) is being used to suppress political opponents instead of taking effective action against corruption and money laundering committed during the long rule of the Awami League government.

He made the allegation at a press conference held in Banglamotor, Dhaka, on Sunday (September 13) afternoon.

At the press conference, Asif Mahmud described as completely baseless the allegations against him involving Tk 11,000 crore in money laundering and receiving commissions. At the same time, he questioned the lack of visible action by the current administration over widely discussed cases of corruption and financial irregularities during the Awami League era.

Asif Mahmud said that instead of taking effective action against those involved in major corruption and money laundering during the Awami League government's long tenure, allegations are being brought one after another against leaders and activists of new political forces. He claimed that many of these allegations are politically motivated and unfounded.

The NCP leader also expressed dissatisfaction with the activities of the ACC. He said necessary reforms have not been carried out within the Anti-Corruption Commission. Rather, after the relevant ordinance was repealed, concerns that the institution could once again be used for political purposes appear to be becoming a reality.

Describing the allegations against him as part of a harassment campaign, Asif Mahmud said they were prepared to respond to such allegations and propaganda through legal means.

He also questioned why there is so much activity surrounding allegations against leaders of new political forces when there has been no visible progress in several widely discussed cases of corruption and money laundering from the Awami League era. He said those concerned would also have to answer that question.

However, no immediate response from the ACC was available regarding the allegations made by Asif Mahmud at the press conference.