Under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh's current anti-corruption effort represents a major first towards improved openness and responsibility in the nation. This program is a statement of the government's goodwill and resolve to eradicate corruption, which has been a ubiquitous problem hampering Bangladesh's development. Sheikh Hasina's government's intention to fight against corruption shows a fresh will to build a society of honesty and confidence in public institutions as she takes office for the fourth straight term.
The media has focused mostly on the government's recent position against two retired high-profile officials of law enforcement agencies, generating general public interest. Once regarded as enforcing the law, these officials have been charged with corrupt behaviour. Regardless of the offenders' status or prior behavior, the quick and forceful reaction by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) to probe and act against these people emphasizes the government's zero-tolerance approach toward corruption.
One cannot stress the part the media plays in exposing these problems. Media outlets have been very important in preserving openness and making sure public officials are answerable for their conduct by exposing these incidents. This public examination supports the idea that nobody is above the law and discouragement of possible wrongdoers.
The government has shown its will to tackle corruption before now. A few years ago, the government started a major campaign against illicit casinos, closing many facilities and arresting several officials from the Jubo League and Chhatra League, young branches of the ruling party. Many people praised these acts as a required step to reduce unlawful activity and rebuild public faith in the government.
The government was committed to its anti-corruption program shown by the war on illicit casinos. Targeting powerful personalities among its ranks, the government demonstrated that it was ready to make tough and perhaps politically dangerous choices to preserve the rule of law.
This action also underlined how the administration understands the destructive influence of corruption on the economy and society.
Notwithstanding these encouraging developments, the anti-corruption drive of the government has not been without difficulties and accusations. Inside the administration, there was a section that opposed the launch of the campaign that finally came to an end. Therefore, the higher-ups in the government need to follow the procedure.
Unquestionably, the Sheikh Hasina government has performed brilliantly in all spheres. The enormous level of progress the nation has seen is unique evidence of government achievement over the past 15 years. Bangladesh is therefore now a shining example of progress and the Asian tiger. Originally referred to be a basket case, Bangladesh's growth model is today followed by other emerging nations. The mature leadership of Sheikh Hasina is ultimately responsible for this growth.
By spreading the coverage of social safety net services around the nation, the government has also achieved great achievement in reducing poverty. This is still another historic accomplishment of the current government. The world leaders have praised even the government's success in social sectors. The nation is moving in the correct direction to reach the Sustainable Development Goals. Unfortunately, the ongoing corruption and lack of success in initiatives aimed at improving governance occasionally eclipse all these successes.
Therefore, the people of Bangladesh were looking at Sheikh Hasina hoping she would do all necessary to reduce corruption and thereby enhance the state of governance in Bangladesh. These latest events amply demonstrate the aim of the Sheikh Hasina government to exhibit zero tolerance against corruption. This should be carried on once the procedure has begun. People would support her government if it could keep on its fight against the big fish engaged in unethical behavior.
Critics contend that these acts are sometimes selective and politically driven, focusing on rivals while neglecting the misdeeds of supporters. The government must guarantee that its anti-corruption initiatives are objective and thorough, aiming against corruption wherever it is discovered, independent of party ties, thus addressing these issues.
Furthermore, even if well-publicized examples make news, it is equally crucial to deal with corruption in all spheres of government and society. Just as destructive, corruption in lower levels of government erodes public confidence and impedes efficient government. Sustained success in the fight against corruption depends on a complete strategy comprising public awareness campaigns, strong monitoring systems, and preventative actions.
Bangladesh has to improve its institutional structures for combating corruption if necessary if it is to capitalize on the momentum of the present campaign. The Anti-Corruption Commission has lately shown more autonomy and resources in acting on its initiative.
The government should also think about using foreign best practices and working with international anti-corruption agencies to improve the success of Bangladesh's initiatives. The battle against corruption depends much on the media and civil society groups. These organizations can assist in building an integrity and vigilant culture by supporting openness, responsibility, and good government. Public awareness initiatives help people to understand the negative consequences of corruption and inspire them to expose dishonest behavior.
Moreover, the media has to keep looking into and covering corruption without regard for reprisals. A dynamic democracy and successful anti-corruption campaigns depend on press freedom and the safeguarding of reporters from harassment and intimidation.
The anti-corruption drive of the government is not only a political one; it is a moral one that will decide the direction of the nation. Corruption degrades public confidence in institutions, slows down economic growth, and aggravates inequality. Bangladesh may open the path for a more fair, equal, and rich society by always giving the battle against corruption a top priority.
Although the government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has demonstrated a laudable dedication to fighting corruption, a lot remains to be done. Maintaining the durability of anti-corruption campaigns calls for a multifarious strategy covering both public and daily corruption. Bangladesh may make great progress in eradicating corruption by encouraging public awareness, strengthening institutional structures, and building a transparent culture.
The writer is a Professor in the Department of Public Administration at the
University of Rajshahi.
