Corruption cannot be so prevalent without the involvement of everyone, says Finance Minister Muhith

Corruption is so prevalent in Bangladesh because everyone is involved in it, either directly or indirectly, says Finance Minister AMA Muhith.

But a change of mentality is coming and it is his hope that corruption will fall in the next 10 years, he said.

The finance minister’s remarks came on Thursday while launching the Anti-Corruption Commission’s (ACC) Hotline-106 in Dhaka.

“We are all overwhelmed by corruption,” he said. “If we weren’t surrounded by it there would be little corruption. Those in power spread corruption. It could not continue if everyone were not involved. We are all indirectly involved.”

People ‘have to’ engage in corruption in the current climate, according to him.

“Bangladesh did not used to have a culture of corruption. It was hidden. There was shame.”

 The minister urged ACC investigators to pursue corruption, but not be fanatic about it. “It is a good thing to investigate. But do not be fanatical. It will spoil the investigation’s quality.”

There was, at one point, a claim that corruption was on the rise because government jobs did not pay enough, but this was no longer the case, said Muhith.

 “It is now possible to lead a good life on a government salary.”

The finance minister said he was optimistic about the future.

“I am hopeful. I believe that in eight to ten years there will be a change in the culture of corruption. There will also be a change in the lives of regular person.”

ACC Chairman Iqbal Mahmood also spoke at the event.

“Corruption is the biggest problem facing the country,” he said. “Even those of us who act as protectors become prey to it. This must change.”

“This is why we have started Hotline-106. This way we can learn of corrupt acts before and after they happen and take swift measures. The hotline will create a direct relationship between the ACC and the people.”

Cases of corruption can be reported to the ACC’s hotline, 106 between the office hours of 9am and 5pm.