Sheikh Bashir Uddin, the commerce adviser to Bangladesh’s interim government, has made shocking revelations about widespread corruption in the country’s energy sector. In a seminar on Tuesday, he disclosed that during the tenure of the Awami League government, he had to pay a bribe of BDT 20 crore to secure a gas connection for his industrial plant.
Bashir’s candid admission comes as a stark illustration of the struggles faced by industrialists in Bangladesh when navigating the country’s notoriously corrupt energy sector. He shared how he endured multiple hardships, including waiting in the rain and facing disrespect from officials, just to get the essential gas connection for his business.
Describing the situation as one of extreme frustration and challenges, Bashir emphasized that such corruption is widespread, with many others in the industry experiencing similar ordeals. While discussing the difficulties in addressing these issues, he acknowledged the entrenched nature of corruption within the system and the uphill battle that both the government and private sector face in combating it.
“Getting a gas connection should not require anyone to pay such a heavy bribe,” Bashir said, highlighting how the issue has become a significant barrier to the country’s economic development. His comments have drawn widespread attention, adding further pressure on the government to reform the energy sector and tackle the pervasive corruption that continues to affect businesses and consumers alike.
Bashir’s disclosure has sparked public debate about the need for urgent reforms in Bangladesh’s public sectors, particularly in the energy sector, which has long been plagued by inefficiency and corruption. While the government has made efforts to address the issue in recent years, the latest revelations suggest that more drastic measures may be needed to eradicate the deep-rooted problems.
As the conversation around corruption intensifies, many are calling for greater transparency, accountability, and stricter enforcement of laws to create a more conducive environment for business growth in Bangladesh.
The energy sector’s corruption is not a new issue, but Bashir’s public acknowledgment brings it to the forefront once again, urging the nation to confront the problem head-on in order to foster a more just and prosperous society for all.
