Wealth Accusations Against Bangladeshi Minister Saifuzzaman Chowdhury

Saifuzzaman Chowdhury, a Bangladeshi minister, has been targeted for investigation due to his vast wealth, declared at Rs 20 crore, against a salary of Rs 11 lakh. His ownership of over 490 properties globally, particularly in the UK, alongside allegations of corruption and money laundering, has resulted in scrutiny from the interim government and the central bank.

Saifuzzaman Chowdhury, a minister in the government of Sheikh Hasina in Bangladesh, has come under scrutiny from the interim administration led by Mohammad Yunus due to his substantial wealth. Although his official salary amounts to Rs 11 lakh, he possesses over 490 properties located internationally, including in the United States, London, and Dubai, with a notable 300 properties in the United Kingdom alone. This information was disclosed through an investigative report by a reputable media outlet.

Following extensive protests in 2024, Sheikh Hasina was compelled to resign and subsequently flee the nation. Chowdhury, having served as a minister under Hasina, also departed amid the unrest that surged in August. His declared assets, reported in his income tax return, indicated a worth of Rs 20 crore, raising further questions about his financial integrity.

Chowdhury hails from a family deeply intertwined with the political landscape, as his father, Akhtaruzzaman, was a close associate of Sheikh Hasina and a founding member of United Commercial Bank. He faces grave allegations, including involvement in the murder of the founding chairman of UCB. Between 1992 and 2024, his family reportedly accumulated properties valued at over USD 295 million in key global cities.

Notably, an increase in Chowdhury’s net worth was observed starting in 2019, coinciding with his role as the land minister. His real estate holdings include luxurious properties such as one in the Burj Khalifa in Dubai and over 300 houses across the UK, as well as investments in Singapore and Malaysia.

According to reports from Al-Jazeera, the central bank of Bangladesh has initiated measures to freeze the bank accounts associated with Chowdhury and his family. Moreover, the country’s anti-corruption commission has launched an investigation into allegations of his illicit financial gains, totaling thousands of crores of taka, and potential money laundering activities in the United Kingdom.

In summary, Saifuzzaman Chowdhury’s extraordinary accumulation of wealth amidst his ministerial salary has prompted serious investigations by Bangladeshi authorities. The significant number of properties owned by him, particularly in the UK, raises concerns regarding potential corruption and financial misconduct. The ongoing inquiries reflect the government’s efforts to address issues of corruption among its officials.

Original Source: www.india.com