Corruption Within the Anti-Corruption Commission: A Critical Issue
The recent revelation that corruption within the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has reached a critical point is profoundly alarming. As reported, six top officials were dismissed this year alone, and two former chiefs of the commission are currently under investigation. The report further noted that over the past 17 years, 245 ACC officials have faced disciplinary actions for bribery, unethical gains, and direct involvement in corruption. Their penalties, ranging from salary cuts to dismissals, have been limited to internal action, with no criminal prosecution in sight.
Failed Internal Disciplinary Mechanisms
These developments demonstrate that the institution’s internal disciplinary mechanisms have failed and can no longer be allowed to operate in their current form. The ACC’s continued reliance on internal monitoring and disciplinary processes is destined to be ineffective as internal investigations lack the independence of external oversight bodies, leaving them vulnerable to bias and inadequate scrutiny. The current chairman, Mohammad Abdul Momen, insists that the ACC takes immediate action whenever allegations arise, an assertion that belies deep-rooted inertia or unwillingness to adopt meaningful reforms.
Need for Reforms
The commission must therefore adopt the reforms recommended by the ACC Reform Commission. It is worth recalling that the reform commission proposed establishing an oversight mechanism through a high-powered task force composed of representatives from intelligence and investigative agencies. This task force would be responsible for identifying corrupt officials and pursuing both disciplinary and criminal proceedings against them.
Proposed Reforms
The commission also recommended dissolving the ACC’s internal anti-corruption committee and replacing it with an independent disciplinary division consisting of ACC personnel and individuals appointed on deputation from defence, intelligence, and law enforcement agencies. This division would enforce the code of conduct, run covert investigations and counter-intelligence operations, review asset declarations, and impose punitive measures. Although asset declarations are mandatory under the ACC (Employees) Service Rules, 2008, the integrity of the verification process remains highly questionable to this day.
Support for Reforms
The ACC reform proposals have received overwhelming support from political parties across the spectrum, signalling a strong desire for institutional transformation in the post-autocratic transition to democracy. The July National Charter, too, commits to reforming the ACC by ensuring its independence and effectiveness. Nothing, therefore, should be allowed to stand in the way. Anti-corruption advocates, including the Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB), have argued that departmental actions such as dismissal are far from sufficient.
Conclusion
Every corrupt official must face prosecution, and the proceeds of their crimes—their illicit wealth—must be confiscated. The ACC must take immediate and meaningful action to address the corruption within its ranks and adopt the recommended reforms to restore its credibility and effectiveness. The fight against corruption requires a strong and independent anti-corruption commission, and it is the responsibility of the government and the ACC to ensure that this institution is able to fulfill its mandate and serve the people of the country. The time for reform is now, and it is imperative that the ACC takes bold and decisive action to address the corruption within its ranks and restore the trust of the people.
