Allegations of corruption against Chief Arboriculturist of the Public Works Department (PWD) Sk Md Kudrot-E-Khuda, have shed a grim light on the depth of wrongdoing within Bangladesh’s public institutions. Over a tenure spanning more than a decade, Kudrot-E-Khuda allegedly amassed vast wealth by misusing his power in the Arboriculture Division, manipulating recruitment procedures, fabricating financial records and negotiating department resources. These claims reflect particular fault and concerning culture within parts of PWD that allows corruption to fester unbridled. Addressing this issue requires a through, transparent investigation and a zero-tolerance approach to corruption to ensure a public sector truly answerable to the people it serves.
At the core of public service lies the faith that people place in management figures to operate ethically and responsibly. This trust is the bedrock of any fairness, as it ensures that those tasked with managing public funds do so transparently and for the common good. Unfortunately, the allegation against Kudrot-E-Khuda paint a grim picture of corruption. Sources point out that he fabricated outsourcing lists, inflated management bills and embezzled funds meant for public projects like park beautification, floral displays and government property maintenance.
Possibly more worrying is the allegation of a syndicate in PWD, involving top officials, who may have allowed or even protected Kudrot-E-Khuda’s misdeed. Reports suggest that senior engineers and other officials may have benefitted from these corrupt activities, exchanging favour and financial enticement to shield wrongdoing from scrutiny. Such involvement signals a deeper systemic issue within the department. When corruption becomes rooted, it permeates the whole organisational culture, setting an example where corruption is stood, if not encouraged and capable, honest employees are either silenced or freeze-out.
The country will have transparent,
efficient and ethical administration
through ensuring accountability
The allegation surrounding Kudrot-E-Khuda also include harassment of whistleblowers and suppression of evidence, raising serious questions regarding the protection of those who expose corruption. Whistleblowers reported facing punitive actions like dismissal and forced trasfers, while others were silenced through intimidation. This treatment is a grave violation of their rights and the principles of transparency in management acts. A robust mechanism that supports whistleblowers and shields them from retaliation is necessary to combat corruption; without it, honest officials will remain silent, fearing for their livelihood and occupation.
The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) previously launched investigations into Kudrot-E-Khuda’s conduct, but questions remain about the depth, speed and effectiveness of these investigations. If the ACC or other investigative frames meet interference, then public trust in these institutions weakens and people are left with suspicion regarding the commitment of authorities concerned to rooting out corruption. It is incumbent upon the ACC and PWD to prioritise a comprehensive and impartial investigation, unhampered by internal pressure. Any attempt to delay or obscure these allegations would undermine the rule of law and embolden corrupt officials.
Finally, Bangladesh’s future depends on a public service grounded in integrity, ethics and answerability. The authorities concerned owes it to its citizens to create institutions that reflect the country’s values, ensuring that public resources are used to benefit society as a whole. Addressing the allegations against Kudrot-E-Khuda and his connections with no fear or favour will set a precedent, one that says abuses of power will not go unpunished and those who misuse public trust will face justice.
By applying answerability now, the country may pave the way toward a transparent, efficient and ethical administration, one that stands as a model for good governance. Let this be a turning point, a moment when the authorities concerned decisively turns away from a culture of corruption and toward an era of integrity and public service for the people.
