Bangladesh Launches Probe into Alleged $5 Billion Embezzlement
Introduction
Bangladesh has launched a probe into the alleged $5 billion embezzlement connected to a Russian-backed nuclear power plant by ousted leader Sheikh Hasina and her family, the anti-corruption commission announced on Monday.
Key Allegations
The allegations were raised by a writ seeking an investigation filed in the high court by Hasina’s political opponent, Bobby Hajjaj, chairman of the Nationalist Democratic Movement party. "We seek justice through our court", Hajjaj told AFP on Monday.
The Rooppur Nuclear Plant
Key allegations are connected to the funding of the $12.65 billion Rooppur nuclear plant, the South Asian country’s first, which is bankrolled by Moscow with a 90 percent loan. A statement from the commission said it had launched an inquiry into allegations that Hasina and family members had "embezzled $5 billion" from the Rooppur plant via "various offshore bank accounts in Malaysia".
Investigation Findings
The commission’s investigation is examining "questionable procurement practices related to the overpriced construction" of the plant. "The claims of kickbacks, mismanagement, money laundering, and potential abuse of power raise significant concerns about the integrity of the project and the use of public funds", the commission said.
Graft Allegations
Graft allegations also include theft from a government building scheme for the homeless.
Ousted Leader’s Fleeing
Hasina, 77, fled by helicopter on August 5 into exile in India, infuriating many Bangladeshis determined that she face trial for alleged "mass murder".
Reactions
Siddiq, who is a British lawmaker and government minister, has "denied any involvement in the claims" accusing her of involvement in embezzlement, according to a statement from the British prime minister’s office. Joy, who is understood to be based in the United States, was also unavailable for comment.
Conclusion
The investigation into the alleged embezzlement is expected to shed light on the alleged corruption surrounding the Rooppur nuclear plant and the involvement of Sheikh Hasina and her family members. The probe is seen as a significant development in the country’s efforts to combat corruption and ensure transparency in government projects.
FAQs
- Who is the subject of the investigation?
- Ousted leader Sheikh Hasina and her family members, including her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, and niece, Tulip Siddiq.
- What is the alleged amount of embezzlement?
- $5 billion
- What is the source of the funding for the Rooppur nuclear plant?
- Moscow, with a 90 percent loan
- What is the purpose of the investigation?
- To examine "questionable procurement practices related to the overpriced construction" of the plant and to investigate allegations of embezzlement.