Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has called for the cancellation of the appointment of the newly appointed governor of Bangladesh Bank, citing concerns over potential conflicts of interest and the need to ensure the central bank’s independence and neutrality.
TIB Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman made the demand at a press conference held at the organisation’s office in Dhanmondi on Thursday.
The briefing was titled “Strategic priority for implementing the BNP-led government’s commitments on good governance and anti-corruption: TIB recommendations.”
On February 25, economist Ahsan H Mansur was removed from the post and Mostakur Rahman was appointed as the new governor of Bangladesh Bank.
The appointment has raised questions among observers about whether Rahman’s business background could create a conflict of interest while serving as the head of the country’s financial sector regulator.
Dr Iftekharuzzaman said the appointment of the central bank governor should be free from controversy and based on proven expertise and experience in the relevant field.
He added that the person holding the position must be able to perform the responsibilities of the office without any conflict of interest.
TIB also urged the government to adopt a well-planned strategy to ensure that forces within the ruling party that could undermine governance or the government’s success do not become dominant.
According to him, the government should formulate a coordinated roadmap based on the BNP’s 31-point state reform outline, election manifesto and the “July Charter.”
He said the government should identify potential challenges and risks in implementing its anti-corruption commitments and develop strategies to address them.
TIB also called for transparency regarding which ordinances adopted during the interim government period will be placed before the 13th National Parliament and which will not.
The organisation further urged the government to ensure zero tolerance for corruption and prevent the emergence of an “it’s our turn now” culture among ruling party leaders, bureaucrats and business groups.
Dr Iftekharuzzaman warned against attempts to normalise abuse of power, corruption, extortion and political patronage.
At the press conference, TIB also proposed scrapping the Police Commission Ordinance 2025, initiating reforms in intelligence agencies including DGFI, SB, DB and NSI, and dissolving the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB).
TIB Director Mohammad Touhidul Islam and other officials were also present at the event.