Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Chairman Dr. Mohammad Abdul Momen has said that if the declaration of assets in affidavit submitted by then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for 2008 national parliamentary election had been properly verified, her candidacy should have been canceled.
Speaking on Sunday at 22nd founding anniversary of ACC journalists’ forum Reporters Against Corruption (RAC), Momen cited the 2008 election as an example of discrepancies between declared and actual assets.

He acknowledged the challenges of thoroughly scrutinizing candidates’ affidavits in a short time, saying, “It is extremely difficult to investigate declarations in detail within the limited time available. That is why the support of journalists is very important.”

Urging reporters to play an active role ahead of the upcoming 13th parliamentary election, Momen said, “If there is any suspicion regarding a candidate’s declared assets, investigate it and report it to ACC first. You, too, are investigators and your work will help us perform our duties effectively.”

The ACC chairman emphasized that the commission does not want individuals who own undeclared or illegally acquired wealth to become future rulers of the country.

“Good governance and justice for all are ACC’s expectations. Corruption is a major crisis for the country, and everyone must remain vigilant to ensure that future leaders are honest and fair,” he said.
The event was presided over by RAC President Shafi Uddin Ahmed, with the program conducted by Secretary General Tabarul Haque.
ACC Commissioners Mian Mohammad Ali Akbari Azizi, Brigadier General (Retd.) Hafiz Ahsan Farid and ACC Secretary Mohammad Khaled Rahim also attended.