Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury today told parliament that maintaining financial discipline remains the government’s top priority, and stressed that there would be no compromise on ensuring accountability in the country’s financial sector.
Investigations Underway
Replying to a supplementary question from Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami lawmaker Salahuddin (Gazipur-4) regarding alleged loan irregularities and high default loans at the Probashi Kallyan Bank, the finance minister said the government is carrying out investigations into financial irregularities in different banks and institutions.
"I have told in parliament several times that financial discipline is this government’s top priority. We will not compromise on this issue," he said.
Broader Issues
The minister noted that the problems were not confined to a single bank, adding that irregularities had occurred in a number of financial institutions. He said investigations are underway and action has already been taken against a number of individuals.
"This is an ongoing process. It is not possible to resolve everything overnight," he said.
Comprehensive Cleaning Process
The finance minister said the government has launched a comprehensive cleaning process across the country’s financial sector aimed at restoring transparency, accountability and sound governance.
"The entire financial sector is undergoing a cleaning process, and this effort will continue," he said.
Commitment to Discipline
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, Amir Khosru said a disciplined financial system is indispensable for achieving sustainable economic progress.
"If a country wants to move forward towards economic prosperity, financial discipline must be the top priority. We are ensuring that, Insha'Allah," he told the House.
Opposition Concerns
In the supplementary question, the opposition lawmaker referred to allegations of corruption, influence-peddling and syndicate-driven loan disbursement at the Probashi Kallyan Bank during the previous regime, and sought to know whether the government would investigate the alleged irregularities and dismantle such syndicates.
In reply, the finance minister assured lawmakers that the government’s drive to restore discipline and accountability in the financial sector would continue as part of its broader reform agenda.
