Allegations against Shahabuddin being probed: Law Minister  

Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Md. Asaduzzaman said that the government is investigating allegations of corruption against former President Md. Shahabuddin and will take appropriate legal action in accordance with the findings.

Speaking to reporters on Sunday after attending a reception and training workshop for newly enrolled lawyers organised by the Chittagong District Bar Association, the minister said that the government was committed to ensuring due process while safe guarding individuals from unjust treatment.

"The government does not want anyone to suffer unjustly. However, the allegations against the former President are being properly investigated. After the investigation, necessary decisions will be taken in accordance with the law, considering public demand," he said.

Responding to a question about the election of a new President, the law minister said the government would proceed strictly in line with constitutional provisions.

"We will move forward as directed by the Constitution. I urge the people to have confidence in the government on this matter," he added.

Referring to alleged financial irregularities during the previous administration, Asaduzzaman claimed that $234 billion had been illicitly transferred abroad from Bangladesh over the past 16 years, describing the amount as equivalent to "two to three national budgets" at present.

He also alleged widespread corruption in public development projects, claiming that Tk 2.8 billion had been allocated for the construction of a 4.5-kilometre road in Khulna, while a Tk 3.5 billion Local Government Engineering Department (LGED) project in Pirojpur had been "looted by showing it on paper".

On the pending cases related to the July uprising, the minister said the government intended to place the cases before Speedy Trial Tribunals to ensure their expeditious disposal.

"Necessary measures have already been taken for the speedy disposal of these cases," he said, adding that the number of what he described as false cases had "decreased significantly".

Addressing newly enrolled lawyers, the law minister said there was "no shortcut to becoming a lawyer", stressing that legal practitioners must develop their professional competence through continuous learning.

He urged the young lawyers to dedicate themselves to serving the people, upholding justice and maintaining professional integrity rather than pursuing financial gain. He also called on them to take a principled stand against corruption, regardless of whether those involved in politics.