Recent days have witnessed a tempest of controversy swirling around several ministries of the government in Bangladesh, as retiring government high officials stunningly set sail on foreign trips thus generating serious criticism while media outlets have demanded investigation into these matters as through such trip, those high officials not only wasted large sum of cash from the national exchequer, it also is seen as abuse of power and corruption.
From official tours to purported capacity-building seminars, the timing and justification of these undertakings have faced intense examination, with detractors emphasizing worries regarding extravagant spending and the possible misappropriation of public resources.
The controversy ignited with the case of Kazi Washi Uddin, the outgoing secretary to the Housing and Public Works Ministry in Bangladesh. His impending retirement, scheduled for March 9, was overshadowed by his decision to embark on an official trip to France just four days prior to the conclusion of his tenure. His purpose of visit was to attend ‘Building Climate Global Forum Summit’, raising concerns due to the proximity of his trip to the retirement date. The timing of his departure, on March 6, struck many as questionable, especially since March 8 and 9 fell on a weekend. Ministry insiders disclosed this coincidence, adding fuel to the scrutiny surrounding Kazi Washi Uddin’s actions and the potential implications for ethical conduct and the use of public resources.
Further stoking the controversy, Kazi Washi Uddin’s application for VIP lounge access and other privileges at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport drew sharp criticism, with certain officials viewing it as establishing a precedent that could undermine the integrity of the administration. The subsequent appointment of Nabirul Islam as Kazi Washi Uddin’s successor only intensified speculation, prompting inquiries into governmental oversight and accountability. As Kazi Washi Uddin’s actions continued to be scrutinized, concerns grew regarding the potential erosion of public trust and the need for greater transparency in the handling of official affairs within Bangladesh’s public sector.
Similarly, Helal Uddin Ahmed, a senior secretary of the Local Government Division (LGD), came under scrutiny for undertaking an all-expenses-paid journey to the Netherlands and Spain shortly before his retirement. The funded study tour, purportedly aimed at government project initiatives, sparked doubts regarding its relevance and necessity, with experts condemning it as an extravagant misuse of public funds. Despite Ahmed’s attempt to justify the trip by citing the potential utilization of his expertise post-retirement, skepticism persisted regarding its overall utility and transparency, further amplifying calls for greater accountability within Bangladesh’s public sector.
More controversy ensued when it was disclosed that Md Sarwar Hossain, chief of the Department of Public Health Engineering, participated in capacity-building training in the US shortly before his retirement. His involvement, less than a month before leaving the government job, sparked inquiries into the relevance and urgency of such training, given his imminent departure. Critics questioned the practicality of the timing, highlighting concerns over the necessity of investing in training for an official on the brink of exiting their role.
Critics pointed to the government’s circulars regarding foreign trips of officials, emphasizing the need for prudence and accountability in utilizing public resources. Despite guidelines aimed at limiting foreign trips and ensuring their relevance to governmental activities, instances of seemingly frivolous excursions cast doubt on the effectiveness of existing regulations.
Former officials and experts have voiced their opinions on the issue, expressing apprehensions regarding the absence of accountability and transparency concerning these overseas journeys.
Ali Imam Majumder, a former Cabinet Secretary, criticized what he perceived as inadequate governmental supervision, stressing the imperative for stricter adherence to ethical norms.
Likewise, Dr. Iftekharuzzaman, Executive Director of Transparency International Bangladesh, criticized the diversion of project funds for extraneous activities, advocating for heightened transparency in governmental spending.
The controversy highlights systemic governance and accountability challenges in the public sector, prompting concerns about decision-making integrity and responsible resource allocation. With heightened public scrutiny, there’s a rising call for reforms and enhanced transparency, reflecting a widespread desire for increased governmental accountability. Despite government officials defending their actions by highlighting potential benefits and reaffirming their dedication to public service, doubts linger amid a growing disillusionment with the prevailing culture of impunity and deficient accountability mechanisms.
What actions should the government take against them?
To tackle the prevailing economic crisis, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government has persistently pushed for reductions in both public and private spending through diverse approaches. Nonetheless, the apathy exhibited by senior government officials is deemed intolerable. The accountability for the capricious conduct of public servants invariably rests with the government. This situation prompts inquiries into whether such occurrences undergo comprehensive investigations and legal actions, particularly given that the implicated individuals might themselves hold positions as government officials in specific departments.
Bangladesh has emerged as a role model country globally, attributed to the leadership skills of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Recognizing that it is impractical for the Prime Minister to single-handedly make decisions and oversee all national matters, there are distinct ministries and departments in place. Each department is headed by a responsible minister, with officials and employees spanning various levels, including state ministers and secretaries. Therefore, if each department effectively fulfills its duties, the country’s development will be further accelerated.
The government officials highlighted in this article ought to be compelled to retire from their positions, with their retirement benefits suspended, without granting any chance for misappropriating state funds. In case of necessity, government can also compel them in paying heavy penalty.
Such measures are essential to instill a sense of accountability among high-ranking government officials, who, in turn, will enforce responsibility among their subordinates. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina should not tolerate such irregularities and mischiefs of these high officials.
