Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has strongly demanded the cancellation of the newly appointed Bangladesh Bank Governor to ensure the central bank’s independent and impartial role. According to the organization, this step is crucial to keep the central bank free from any “conflict of interest.”

TIB Executive Director Dr. Iftekharuzzaman highlighted several key demands and recommendations:

• Replacement of the Governor: He pointed out that the media has already reported the new governor is unfit for the position. He must be replaced by someone with proven skill and experience in the relevant sector, who can perform their duties completely above any conflict of interest.

• Preventing Money Laundering and Syndicates: An accountable and sustainable economic system must be built to stop policy capture, collusion, syndicates, looting, and money laundering by a section of the private business sector. He called for formulating a clear strategy for practicing “integrity” in private businesses.

• Formation of a ‘Diversity Commission’: TIB recommended forming an independent ‘Diversity Commission’ to ensure the basic rights and distinct identities of people across different races, religions, castes, languages, and professions. The goal is to create a culture of mutual respect, empathy, and cooperation in state and social institutions.

• Human Rights and Freedom of Expression: He demanded a roadmap for the full implementation of the Chittagong Hill Tracts Peace Accord. He also urged everyone to refrain from actions that undermine freedom of thought and conscience, freedom of expression, diverse cultural practices, peaceful assembly, and freedom of religion and belief.

• Continuing Corruption Investigations: He emphasized that investigations into corruption allegations against various “high-profile” or top-tier