ACC seeks ministry records over ‘irregularities’ during ex-adviser Asif Mahmud’s tenure

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has sought records of appointments, promotions and transfers at the Ministry of Youth and Sports during former interim government adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain’s tenure, amid allegations of irregularities.

The commission also sought documents related to the assignment, cancellation of assignments and subsequent postings of 38 upazila youth development officers.

ACC Secretary Md Saidur Rahman Khan told The Business Standard that Deputy Director Md Zahid Kalam, who is leading the investigation, signed a letter seeking the documents from the ministry today (3 September).

The ministry has been asked to provide the records by 10 September.

The commission has formed a four-member team to investigate allegations against Asif Mahmud, who is now the spokesperson of the National Citizen Party, Youth and Sports Ministry Secretary Md Mahbub-ul-Alam, Joint Secretary Sheikh Mohammad Zobaid Hossain and Deputy Secretary Md Masum Ahmed.

The ACC has sought certified copies of administrative documents related to appointments, promotions and transfers during Asif Mahmud’s tenure.

It is also examining the service records of several assistant upazila youth development officers and has asked the ministry to provide the rules governing the appointments, promotions and transfers, along with supporting documents.

According to the allegations, Tk76 lakh was allegedly taken to cancel the additional duties of 38 officers and arrange their subsequent postings. Another Tk1.05 crore was allegedly taken for the promotion of 150 assistant upazila youth development officers, while around Tk2 crore was allegedly taken to secure preferred postings after promotion.

The ACC investigation team is continuing to examine the allegations, according to the commission.