HC seeks explanation from ACC boss

Anti-Corruption Commission chairman Ghulam Rahman. Star file photo

The High Court sought explanation from Anti-Corruption Commission chairman Ghulam Rahman and three other government high officials Tuesday to explain under which authority the ACC chief is continuing in his office despite "expiry of his tenure" on May 1.

The respondents, who include cabinet secretary, public administration secretary and ACC secretary, will also have to submit their replies in two days.

The HC rule also asked the four to explain why Ghulam Rahman's holding the office should not be declared illegal.

The rule came following filing of a writ petition by Supreme Court lawyer Mirza Al Mahmood Sunday in this regard.

The HC bench of Justice Mirza Hussain Haider and Justice Muhammad Khurshid Alam Sarker fixed Thursday for hearing the rule.

The petitioner said the government appointed Rahman on May 2, 2009 as chairman of the anti-graft body for four years and his tenure ended on May 1 this year.

Talking to The Daily Star on Wednesday, Rahman said he had joined the office of ACC chairman on June 24, 2009.

Prior to filing the writ, Mahmood sent a legal notice to Rahman on Wednesday asking him to leave the office in two days.