Bangladesh Bank has asserted that it will not bow to pressure from any political party or influential group, stressing that all decisions are taken in accordance with the country's banking laws.
Speaking to The Daily Observer, Bangladesh Bank Executive Director and Spokesperson Arif Hossain Khan said the central bank operates independently within the framework of existing banking regulations and does not follow the directives of any political organisation or vested group.
"It is not a political organisation. The central bank and the banking sector are governed by banking laws, and all decisions are taken according to those laws," he asserted.
Row over IBB leadership
He said decisions that comply with the law would be implemented regardless of whether they favour any particular party or group, but the central bank would never act outside the legal framework.
"No matter how powerful a political party or organisation may be, Bangladesh Bank will not change its rules under any undue pressure," he said.
Arif Hossain Khan also said the central bank remained firm on its recent decision regarding Islami Bank and would continue to uphold that position.
His remarks came a day after Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman warned against any attempt to take over or control Islami Bank of Bangladesh (IBB).
Speaking at an Eid reunion programme of Jamaat in Mirpur on Wednesday, he alleged that efforts were being made to hand over the bank to individuals appointed during the previous Awami League government.
The Jamaat leader criticised the Bangladesh Bank governor and urged the government to ensure stability in the banking sector.
Meanwhile, a group of IBB depositors have been demonstrating in front of IBB head office for the last few days demanding removal of new Chairman of the bank and reinstatement of the Managing Director who has resigned. The demonstrators, allegedly backed by Jamaat activists, aslo demanded removal of BB Governor.
