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Published : 25 Aug 2025, 07:02 PM
Anti-Corruption Commission Chairman Md Abdul Momen has warned that voters usually expect money or benefits during elections and underlined the importance of curbing the supply side of ‘black money’ to buy votes in polls.
Speaking at the ACC office in Segunbagicha on Monday, Momen explained that election spending naturally rises and controlling the flow of cash depends on the suppliers.
“There is a demand side and a supply side. We must shut down the supply side.”
He said journalists have a responsibility to report cases of excessive spending.
Candidates are required to submit asset declarations, and any attempt to hide wealth should be reported to the ACC for action, Momen added, recalling his past experience in investigating such complaints.
“If a candidate shows unbelievably low assets, and in reality has much more, report it immediately. We’ll begin our work,” he said.
Momen warned that a rise in black money circulation before the election could push inflation higher.
He said authorities must remain alert in advance to avoid such risks.
Asked if the ACC will monitor election candidates, he said the commission must work within its institutional limitations but will do its best to keep watch.
On inconsistencies in affidavits, Momen said the limited time between submission and voting makes in-depth verification difficult, but suggested that the media could play a key role in identifying discrepancies.
He reiterated that black money is not acceptable and must not be allowed in campaigns.
“There is absolutely no room for anyone to enter the election with black money,” he said. “Even if someone tries through legal loopholes, you must expose them.”
Momen also noted that several government institutions -- including Bangladesh Bank, the finance ministry, the Financial Intelligence Unit, and law-enforcing agencies -- are already working against black money holders.
Asked if the ACC has an election-specific plan, he said a strategy will be prepared. While the commission’s mandate is narrow, it will remain alert to limit the flow of black money during the campaign period.
“This is a direct warning -- reject anyone who is using black money,” he added.
