Anti-corruption commission chairman Muhammad Abdul Momen on Tuesday urged political parties to refrain from awarding election nominations in exchange for money ahead of the national elections scheduled for February 2026.
Speaking at the inauguration of a workshop titled ‘Role of Media in Preventing Corruption,’ organised by the ACC for members of Reporters Against Corruption at the ACC headquarters in Dhaka, Momen emphasised the importance of transparency in the nomination process.
He urged political parties to avoid nominating individuals with records of corruption, stating that such practices undermine the country’s efforts to combat corruption.
When political parties nominate corrupt individuals, the fight against corruption becomes even more challenging and if parties remain vigilant, it can make a significant impact in curbing corruption, he said.
Regarding the issue of money laundering, Momen acknowledged the difficulty in recovering laundered funds but reassured the public that the ACC, alongside other relevant government agencies, is working tirelessly to trace and return the funds from abroad.
In response to a reporter’s question, Momen also stated that ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina, like any other alleged offender, would face justice regarding graft allegations.
He further added that during the tenure of the Awami League, many influential businessmen had nearly driven the country to bankruptcy through corruption.
Despite these challenges, the commission continues its investigations without fear, Momen stated.
The ACC chief also revealed that various legal measures, including issuing red notices via Interpol, have been initiated to bring back fugitive individuals, including Sheikh Hasina and her family members, who are implicated in corruption.
Momen also highlighted the critical role journalists play in promoting good governance.
He said that the work of journalists is essential to ensuring the state’s accountability, and killing a journalist is like killing democracy.
ACC director general (special investigation) Mir Md Zainul Abedin Shibli and DG (training and information technology) Abdullah Al Zahid discussed the Anti-Corruption Commission Act-2004, Anti-Corruption Commission Rules-2007, Prevention of Corruption Act-1947, Money Laundering Act-2012 and other related laws and regulations at the workshop.
ACC DG (administration) Abu Hena Mustafa Zaman, RAC president Alauddin Arif and general secretary Tabarul Haque were also present at the inauguration session of the daylong workshop.
