Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has identified governance deficits, mismanagement, and party influence as significant risks to the BNP government's ability to fulfill its election manifesto. The report titled '100 Days of the 13th National Parliament Election Government: Observation on Governance Establishment and Anti-Corruption Commitment Implementation' was released at a press conference in Dhanmondi, Dhaka. TIB Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman released the report, which was presented by TIB Senior Research Fellow M. Julkarnain and Research Fellow Razia Sultana.
The report observes that despite the government's efforts to implement sector-based plans in line with its election manifesto, there are significant governance gaps, lack of clear anti-corruption measures, and ongoing mismanagement and party influence. Additionally, the absence of risk analysis-based strategies poses a threat to the fulfillment of the BNP's election promises.
The report also notes that while the government has taken some steps to control law and order and combat extortion, significant challenges remain in various sectors such as markets, transport, and law enforcement. Political and administrative patronage, along with a culture of 'it's our turn now,' continues to hinder effective governance.
TIB's observation highlights that despite the government's commitment to establishing good governance and combating corruption, there has been no visible initiative to form crucial commissions like the Anti-Corruption Commission, Human Rights Commission, and Information Commission. This lack of action poses a long-term risk to efforts in controlling corruption, protecting human rights, and ensuring free information flow.
The report further criticizes the cancellation of important ordinances issued by the caretaker government, particularly those related to judicial independence, human rights protection, and anti-corruption measures. TIB argues that these cancellations indicate a regression in critical areas of governance.
