Bangladesh Paradox: Corruption Rampant all over the Country

This episode underscores the delicate equilibrium between state and society. In a functioning democracy, citizens wield the power to express their opinions through the ballot box. However, in countries where this balance falters, the very notion of a just state becomes illusory—a sobering reminder of the consequences when corruption erodes public trust.

Across different countries, there have been instances where heads of government resigned in the wake of various scandals, including economic corruption. One such notable case was the resignation of Willy Brandt, the former Chancellor of Germany. Unlike the typical corruption scandal, this was a "spy scandal." It unfolded in May 1974, when Willy Brandt, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, unexpectedly stepped down without any prior speculation. What made this resignation particularly shocking was that Brandt wasn't just a politician; he was the undisputed leader of Germany, guiding the nation's recovery from the devastation of World War II. His decision to resign came after accusing a close aide of spying for East Germany—an unprecedented move that reverberated throughout the democratic world.

But it's more than just historical cases. In recent years, we've witnessed high-profile resignations due to corruption allegations. For instance, in early 2024, Peruvian President Alberto Otarola resigned amid such accusations. Likewise, Vietnamese Parliament Chairman Vong Dinh Hiu stepped down under similar circumstances. Even last year, Portuguese Prime Minister António Costa faced corruption allegations that led to his resignation. And just days ago, a Singaporean minister resigned amidst similar charges. These examples highlight how corruption scandals can impact leadership positions globally.

Interestingly, there are countries where corruption seems endemic at all levels, yet resignations remain rare. Bangladesh stands out as a prime example in this context. Despite widespread corruption, few officials have been seen voluntarily stepping down due to these allegations in other countries. Bangladesh remains a rarity. The reasons behind this discrepancy are multifaceted, but it underscores the complex interplay between accountability, public perception, and political dynamics.

Bangladesh, according to TIB’s recent calculations, holds the dubious distinction of ranking 10th among 180 countries in terms of corruption. Yet, despite this alarming statistic, no high-ranking officials have stepped down due to corruption allegations. Instead, we witness a curious phenomenon: when news of corruption surfaces—implicating police officers, former army chiefs like General Aziz, and ex-IGP Benzir Ahmed—the government responds with a flurry of action. It’s as if the political authority remains pristine while only the lower echelons are tainted.

However, this perspective oversimplifies the issue. Corruption isn’t solely an economic malaise; it thrives on the abuse of power. Government officials cannot engage in corrupt practices without the tacit support or enabling environment provided by those in higher positions. Thus, the responsibility for rampant corruption extends beyond individual wrongdoers. It implicates the very leadership that either failed to rein in their subordinates or, worse, allowed corruption to flourish in order to maintain their grip on power. As the spotlight falls on accused officials, we must recognise that they operated within a system—a system shaped by those who held authority over them during their tenure. These higher-ups bear a significant burden of accountability. Whether through negligence or complicity, they contributed to the current state of affairs. Now, as sacrificial offerings are made, the ruling political leadership faces an arduous task: disentangling themselves from the web of corruption that engulfs the nation.

Syed Abed Ali, once a humble driver for the Chairman of the Public Service Commission (PSC), has recently found himself at the centre of a scandal. His alleged involvement in leaking question papers for government job recruitment exams, including the prestigious Bangladesh Civil Service (BCS) examinations, has sent shockwaves through the nation. The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) detained seventeen individuals, including Abed Ali and his son, Syed Sohanur Rahman Siam, following an investigation. But how did a former driver amass properties worth millions? Let's delve into the intriguing tale.

Abed Ali's journey began in Dasar Upazila, Madaripur, where he took on odd jobs, from clay worker to rickshaw driver. Fate intervened when he became the personal driver for a former PSC chairman. Abed Ali skilfully cultivated relationships with officials, forming a clandestine syndicate that leaked BCS questions for years. Their illicit gains ran into crores of rupees, stolen from hopeful job aspirants.

Despite his humble origins, Abed Ali now boasts an impressive portfolio: multiple houses, cow farms, and assets both in Dhaka and rural villages. His social media pages reveal a life transformed—a far cry from his days behind the wheel. Abed Ali even campaigned for the post of chairman in the last Upazila Parishad elections, rubbing shoulders with influential figures. As the CID unravels the scandal, Abed Ali's name dominates conversations on social media. The once-unassuming driver has become a legend of the digital age, leaving us pondering the thin line between ambition and corruption.

Abed Ali, driven by a desire to be seen as a hero, engaged in philanthropy by donating to various individuals and institutions. His emotional speeches during meetings and seminars captivated audiences, shedding light on the hardships and poverty faced by many. Meanwhile, his elder son, Syed Sohanur Rahman Siam, led a reckless life fuelled by ill-gotten wealth. Despite this, Siam managed to secure three significant titles within the BCL (Bangladesh Chhatra League). However, when Abed Ali's questionable actions came to light, the Chhatra League swiftly expelled him. Interestingly, neither Abed Ali nor his son denied their relationship.

As for Abed Ali's involvement in the BCS (Bangladesh Civil Service), he played a pivotal role. In the 24th batch, a scandal erupted when leaked question papers surfaced. Abed Ali, a driver at the centre of this operation, orchestrated it with remarkable efficiency. Candidates were discreetly placed in different locations, receiving the question papers a day or two before the exam. Consequently, they achieved high scores. Simultaneously, political leaders received their share, aligning with a predetermined list. The intricate web of corruption and influence extended even to the examination halls.

In the annals of Bangladesh's health sector, two names stand out: Malek, the renowned health contractor, and Mithu, a figure who once toiled diligently in the medical field. Their stories intertwine with wealth, power, and a web of connections that have shaped the landscape of employment and opportunity. Malek, celebrated for his role in health initiatives, amassed vast fortunes. His influence extended beyond mere jobs and promotions; he orchestrated a symphony of financial gains, accumulating crores of rupees. Similarly, Abed Ali Gong, a BCS cadre, followed suit, amassing wealth through comparable channels. Thousands of cadres now thrive in various sectors, their prosperity seemingly tied to these enigmatic figures.

Yet, beneath this veneer of success lies a darker truth. The meritocracy, once a beacon of hope, has faltered. Talented students languish, while the children’s of freedom fighters suffer. Quota appointments, intended to uplift marginalised groups, have sometimes perpetuated injustice. Abed Ali's meteoric rise remains shrouded in mystery, his achievements hidden from the very authorities tasked with oversight.

Abed Ali's notoriety dates back a decade, when he emerged as the alleged mastermind behind a question paper leak syndicate. Despite a charge sheet filed against him, the wheels of justice turned slowly. Only two witnesses testified out of twelve, leaving Abed Ali unscathed. His marketing acumen bolstered his reputation, even as the children of geniuses and freedom fighters raised their voices in protest. As we grapple with these complexities, questions linger: Who shields Abed Ali? What role does the quota system play? The answers remain elusive, obscured by a veil of power and intrigue.