TIB presses for anti-graft, governance issues

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) yesterday called upon the government to propose inclusion of issues of governance and anti-corruption as Saarc's distinct goals at the regional platform's forthcoming summit in Kathmandu from November 22.

In a statement, TIB noted that the region's governments recognise corruption as a key impediment to economic development, poverty alleviation, rule of law and justice.

They urged the Bangladesh government to take the lead in undertaking regional cooperation on effectively controlling corruption.

The proactive role will “create opportunities for mutual learning, sharing and collaboration to control corruption, particularly in cross-border dimensions,” said TIB Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman.  

TIB, in a letter sent to the Bangladesh prime minister on November 5, urged her to commit to ensuring people's access to information and strengthen institutions of accountability.

It also drew attention to the government's election manifesto of 2008 and 2014 and the perspective and five-year plans, which consider good governance as the centrepiece of state policy and commit to work against corruption.

Corruption must be addressed by multi-dimensional strategic interventions with particular emphasis on challenging impunity without fear and favour, it adds.