ACC has launched an investigation into corruption allegations against former MP Major Rafiqul Islam

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has started an investigation against former Member of Parliament, elected MP of Chandpur-5 Constituency (Hajiganj-Shahrasti) area and former Home Minister Major Rafiqul Islam (Bir Uttam) on allegations of abuse of power, embezzlement of government project funds and money laundering abroad.  

In a letter sent from the Chandpur district office of the ACC, it has been informed that a two-member inquiry committee has been formed to verify the veracity of the complaint. Search operations have already started. In this process, Major Rafiqul Islam has been instructed to appear at Chandpur district ACC office on February 2, 2025, at 11 am.  

According to ACC documents, there are several serious allegations against Major Rafiqul Islam. Notable among these are:  

1. Abuse of power: Misappropriation of funds for road construction and river dredging projects. 

 

2. Money Laundering of Government Projects: Allegations of money laundering of various development projects abroad.  

 3. Acquisition of Non-Income Assets: Allegations of acquisition of non-income assets identified anonymously.  

The ACC has sent a notice to Major Rafiqul Islam and asked him to explain the allegations. If he does not appear on the scheduled date, he will be deemed to have no say in the complaint.  

Deputy Director of Chandpur District ACC. Saiful Islam said, "We have started an investigation based on the complaint. In the preliminary investigation, several facts have been found, which are being verified. If Major Rafiqul Islam does not appear and explain at the appointed time, we will take legal action. He also said that this investigation is being conducted in accordance with Section 22 of the Anti-Corruption Commission Act, 2004 and Rule 8/11 of the Anti-Corruption Commission Rules, 2007.  

No response was received from Major Rafiqul Islam or anyone close to him. But his followers are claiming that this is a politically motivated case. They termed the allegations as baseless and false.  

According to ACC sources, if the evidence of the complaint is found, a case will be filed in the legal process. If necessary, drastic measures like confiscation of assets may be taken.  

Extensive discussion has started at the local level in this incident. Many feel this finding is an important step in taking a strong stand against corruption.