Bangladesh Anti-Corruption Commission launches probe against former adviser Asif Mahmud

Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has launched an investigation into alleged corruption and irregularities at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, naming former interim government adviser Asif Mahmud Sajeeb Bhuiyan and three officials.

ACC deputy director Akhtarul Islam said preliminary evidence prompted the probe. Allegations include corruption involving transfers, recruitment, promotions, appointments, tendering, and procurement.

A four-member ACC team will investigate claims that Tk 76 lakh (approximately $62,000) was taken for transferring 38 upazila youth development officers, Tk 1.5 crore (approximately $122,000) for promoting 150 assistant officers, and Tk 2 crore (approximately $163,000) for preferred postings after promotion.

Asif, now spokesperson of the National Citizen Party, denied the allegations as politically motivated and gave ACC 24 hours to apologize, warning he would issue a legal notice. He said he was ready to cooperate with any lawful inquiry and provide relevant documents.