Bangladesh is currently at a pivotal moment, striving to cultivate a society that is free from corruption and marked by justice and equity. Over the past 15 years, the nation has been severely afflicted by corruption, which has had detrimental effects on the economy and public service delivery. The pervasive political patronage and the inaction of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) have rendered effective governance nearly impossible, leading to a significant erosion of public confidence in the ACC, primarily due to its weak institutional capacity and the presence of corrupt leadership. The interim government needs to reform the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and address the pervasive corruption within both public and private institutions in our country urgently.
For such a vital reform, it is essential to appoint a leader who exemplifies integrity, transparency, and ethical governance. In this context, Muhammad Munir Chowdhury stands out as the prime candidate for the role of Chairman of the ACC. His unwavering commitment to honesty, courage, and public service, alongside his remarkable achievements throughout his civil service career, make him exceptionally qualified to lead Bangladesh's fight against corruption.
Chowdhury's career is a testament to his dedication to ethical governance and principled action within the Bangladesh Civil Service. He has consistently shown that he cannot be swayed by external pressures, whether from political entities or societal norms. His leadership is characterized by a relentless commitment to combating corruption, earning him recognition as a reformist and a champion for justice. His lifestyle reflects his dedication to public service, rejecting luxury in favor of a life committed to integrity and sacrifice.
His contributions are extensive and impactful, affecting various sectors such as food safety, environmental protection, energy management, and land administration. Notably, during his tenure at Chittagong Port (2004-2007), he successfully reclaimed land and resources valued at Tk. 1,500 Crore, significantly reducing pollution and tax evasion while protecting the port from environmental degradation. His efforts established a model for sustainable governance in a key area of national infrastructure.
As the head of the Department of Environment (2011-2012), Chowdhury spearheaded a vigorous campaign against industrial pollution and illegal land encroachment. He recovered over 600 acres of forest land and introduced the "Polluters Pay Principle," demonstrating how decisive leadership can effect substantial environmental reform. Under his direction, revenue from environmental protection initiatives increased from Tk. 31 Crore to Tk. 128 Crore, with an impressive 70% of industries implementing necessary effluent treatment systems.
His tenure as Task-Force Chief of Dhaka Power Distribution Company (2015-2016) was marked by a significant reduction in corruption and an increase in revenue by over Tk. 1,000 Crore, highlighting his ability to implement effective anti-corruption measures. His successful reforms in Milk Vita drew international acclaim, showcasing his capacity to rehabilitate institutions plagued by corruption.
Chowdhury's previous role as Director General of the ACC (2017-2019) further solidifies his qualifications. Under his leadership, the ACC undertook some of the most rigorous anti-corruption operations in its history, recovering illegal assets and arresting numerous corrupt individuals, including those in positions of influence. His bold approach revitalized the ACC, transforming it into a proactive and effective institution amidst overwhelming political and social pressures.
Chowdhury has successfully reclaimed over Tk. 4,000 Crore from tax evaders, land grabbers, and environmental offenders, exemplifying his pragmatic approach and commitment to integrity in public service.
As Bangladesh stands on the brink of a new era, it is crucial that Muhammad Munir Chowdhury leads the Anti-Corruption Commission. His profound sense of justice, proven anti-corruption efforts, and lifelong dedication to serving the public interest make him the ideal candidate to combat corruption effectively. The people's demand is unequivocal: appoint Muhammad Munir Chowdhury as the next Chairman of the Anti-Corruption Commission. His leadership will ensure that the ACC operates as a robust and independent body capable of addressing corruption at its core, ultimately paving the way for a truly corruption-free Bangladesh.
The time for transformative change is now, and Muhammad Munir Chowdhury is prepared to lead this charge with a clear vision and unwavering commitment to integrity and public service.
The writer is an ICT Consultant 
