The decision is most appropriate and prudent for Bangladesh's national interest, said a press release yesterday.

TI has been following with keen interest and expectation the importance attached at the highest level of the caretaker government to combating corruption with a comprehensive approach as reflected in the statement to the nation by Chief Adviser Dr Fakhruddin Ahmed on January 22.

"The main thrust being on making the forthcoming national elections free from the influence of corruption and illicit money, we are inspired by some of the initiatives taken by Dr Ahmed's government, which includes measures for an independent judiciary and reconstitution of the Election and Anti-Corruption Commissions, aiming at making these vital institutions truly independent and effective," said Huguette Labelle, chair of TI.

"As much as we have been concerned over the years by Bangladesh's poor score in TI's Corruption Perceptions Index, we are deeply encouraged now by the significant recent steps sending strong signals nationally and internationally about the highest level of the commitment for real change."

"The initiatives reflect the demands and aspirations of every citizen of Bangladesh. If properly implemented with supportive legal and institutional reforms, the basis will be created for effective and sustainable control of corruption and establishment of transparent and accountable governance in the country," said Dr Iftekhar Zaman, executive director of TI-Bangladesh (TIB).

TI's secretariat and TIB are ready, within their capacity, to provide any assistance that may be needed to expedite the process of Bangladesh's accession to the UN Convention, as well as implementation of other reform initiatives taken by the government, said the press release of TIB.