A Correspondent:
Joypurhat: Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Chairman Dr Mohammad Abdul Momen yesterday said although corruption cannot be entirely eradicated from the country, it can effectively be reduced through concerted efforts.
He made the remarks while addressing a public hearing organized by the ACC in cooperation with the Joypurhat district administration at the District Shilpakala Academy auditorium this morning.
Momen said that corruption was the principal factor behind the departure of several high-profile individuals from the country, including ousted former Prime Minister, former Chief Justice, the Governor of Bangladesh Bank, and the Khatib of Baitul Mukarram National Mosque.
“We must also inquire about officials and employees within the ACC itself, including myself. If we are sincere and transparent in our mutual dealings, corruption can be significantly reduced,” he said.
With Joypurhat Deputy Commissioner Afroza Akhtar Chowdhury in the chair, ACC Rajshahi Divisional Office Director Fazlul Haque delivered the welcome address.
Other speakers included ACC Director General (Prevention) Akhtar Hossain, Joypurhat Superintendent of Police Muhammad Abdul Wahab, and Additional Deputy Commissioner (Revenue) Md. Sabur Ali.
During the session, allegations of corruption were presented against several local institutions, including Joypurhat 250-bed General Hospital, BRTA, Joypurhat Sugar Mill, Municipality, LGED, police stations, prison, land offices, union parishads, and social service departments.
The ACC Chairman took all complaints into cognizance and instructed the concerned authorities to take appropriate action.
Over the past eight days, a total of 67 complaints had been submitted at various booths across Joypurhat town against government, semi-government, and private entities. Of these, 33 complaints were shortlisted for the hearing based on their relevance and importance to various ministries and agencies.
The ACC Chairman assured that all complaints would be addressed in due course and urged the administration to ensure timely and effective solution.
