ACC chief says officials’ irregularities won’t be tolerated

In an effort to put his own house in order, chairman of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Iqbal Mahmood on Thursday warned its officials that no irregularity, nepotism, partiality and laxity will be tolerated in investigation into any complaint, reports UNB.

He came up with the warning while addressing an urgent meeting with directors of all ACC divisional offices, deputy directors of all district coordinated offices, and secretary, director general and directors of the head office on how to ensure more transparency and accountability in the process of investigation and enquiry.

"Every officer will be dearer to us as long as you carry out your duties honestly and transparently," the ACC chairman said. "No mercy will be shown to those who will fail to fulfill the duties."

Talking about the timeline of enquiry, he said, "From now on, those who will fail to follow the timeline should switch to another institution as the ACC rules allow this."

Expressing his dismay over the delay in enquiry in the name of queries, Iqbal Mahmood said this will not be allowed from now on. "No query can be given without the approval of the commission. We're trying our best to make this organisation a symbol of people’s confidence. We can't allow that the image of the institution is tarnished for negligence and authoritarianism of anyone."

Mentioning that there were allegations of rude behaviour against some officials, he urged them to behave well with people. "Be careful of your behaviour and responsibility."

ACC commissioner Mozammel Haque Khan said the legal mandate of the commission will be implemented. "So, any rude behaviour is not desirable. If you respect the law, you can't be arrogant," he said.