Key Points:
- Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) investigates former PM Sheikh Hasina, her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy, and niece Tulip Siddiq for alleged embezzlement of $5 billion in the Ruppur nuclear power plant project.
- The High Court questions ACC’s inaction regarding the alleged transfer of funds to a Malaysian bank.
- The Ruppur project, designed by Russia and constructed by Rosatom with Indian companies’ involvement, is Bangladesh’s first nuclear power plant.
- The investigation follows Hasina’s ousting after massive student-led protests and ongoing international scrutiny.
Dhaka: Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her family members are under the spotlight after the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) launched an investigation into allegations of embezzling $5 billion from the Ruppur nuclear power plant project. This is the country’s first nuclear power initiative, built 160 km west of Dhaka, with Russian state-owned company Rosatom spearheading the construction and Indian firms collaborating.
The Allegations and High Court Intervention
The investigation, which has garnered global attention, stems from accusations that Hasina, her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy, and niece Tulip Siddiq a UK Member of Parliament and British Finance Minister—transferred funds from the project to a Malaysian bank. These allegations were brought to light by Bobby Hajjaj, president of the National Democratic Movement (NDM).
The Bangladesh High Court has issued a ruling questioning the ACC’s inaction regarding the alleged transfer. The court demanded to know why the ACC has not taken steps to address claims of misappropriated funds in this high-stakes project.
Political Fallout and Ongoing Investigations
This investigation coincides with Sheikh Hasina’s prolonged stay in India since August 5, following her government’s fall after massive student-led protests. The protests, spurred by demands for accountability and justice, marked the end of Hasina’s 16-year rule. Her son Joy resides in the United States, while her sister Rehana accompanies her in exile.
Adding to Hasina’s woes, the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) of Bangladesh has issued arrest warrants against her and several former cabinet members for alleged “crimes against humanity and genocide.” These charges, coupled with several murder cases linked to recent protests, have intensified scrutiny on the former prime minister.
The Ruppur Nuclear Power Plant: A Symbol of Controversy
The Ruppur nuclear power plant represents Bangladesh’s ambition to modernize its energy infrastructure. Designed by Russia and built with Indian companies’ involvement, the project has been a cornerstone of bilateral cooperation. However, allegations of financial mismanagement threaten to overshadow its significance.
Impact on Hasina’s Legacy
Once celebrated for her leadership, Sheikh Hasina now faces a legacy marred by allegations of corruption and authoritarianism. With the ACC’s investigation and mounting legal challenges, the future remains uncertain for Bangladesh’s longest-serving prime minister and her family.
As the probe unfolds, international observers and Bangladesh’s citizens await clarity on the scandal that could redefine the country’s political landscape.
