The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) of Bangladesh has initiated a formal investigation into alleged corruption involving three individuals who served as close aides to two key government advisers. The decision marks a significant move in the ACC’s ongoing efforts to curb corruption within administrative and advisory circles of the government.
Individuals Under Investigation
The three individuals under scrutiny are:
Md. Moazzem Hossain, who served as the Assistant Private Secretary (APS) to Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan, Adviser to the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Ministry of Local Government.
Tuhin Farabi, a university student who also served as a Personal Officer (PO) to Nurjahan Begum, Adviser to the Ministry of Health.
Dr. Mahmudul Hasan, another aide affiliated with Health Adviser Nurjahan Begum.
According to the ACC, the individuals are being investigated on the basis of preliminary complaints involving alleged financial irregularities, abuse of power, and misappropriation of public funds.
ACC’s Position
At a press briefing on Sunday (May 4) at the ACC headquarters in Dhaka, Md. Akhtar Hossain, Director General of the ACC, confirmed the launch of the probe. He stated that the ACC’s scrutiny cell had reviewed detailed complaints against the individuals and found enough merit to proceed with a formal investigation.
“The ACC remains committed to upholding integrity within all layers of public service. No individual, regardless of their political connections or position, is above the law,” said Akhtar Hossain.
Administrative Actions Taken
Earlier, on April 22, the Ministry of Public Administration issued an official notification relieving Moazzem Hossain of his duties following internal reports of misconduct. Tuhin Farabi had already been dismissed weeks prior amid separate corruption allegations that surfaced through media reports and whistleblower testimony.
While Dr. Mahmudul Hasan remains in his position at the time of this report, sources within the Health Ministry suggest that his role is also under internal review, pending the outcome of the ACC’s inquiry.
Background and Implications
This development follows growing public concern over the influence and unchecked power of non-elected aides and advisers within government institutions. Political analysts have long criticized the appointment of personal officers without proper vetting or accountability mechanisms.
The ACC has reportedly sought cooperation from various government bodies, including the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and relevant intelligence agencies, to gather documentation and evidence for the case.
Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses. If formal charges are brought against the individuals, it may lead to wider inquiries into the operations of advisory teams within the current administration.
