White Paper Committee, in its report that was submitted to Interim Government Chief Advisor Professor Muhammad Yunus said that an estimated $16 billion (Tk 190,000 crore) was siphoned out of the country annually during Sheikh Hasina's tenure.

The committee was formed to investigate irregularities and corruption in the economy

Renowned economist Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya, chief of the committee handed over the report on Sunday (Dec 1) afternoon.

Later, Chief Advisor’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam stated that the report highlights significant money laundering during the former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s rule, who was ousted through a student-led mass uprising. On average, $16 billion was funneled out of the country every year under her administration.

After receiving the report, Chief Advisor Professor Muhammad Yunus described it as a “historic document.” 

He said, “The financial misdeeds revealed in this report are alarming. These events unfolded before us, yet no one spoke about them.”

The White Paper report sheds light on critical issues across various sectors and is expected to serve as a key reference for addressing corruption and mismanagement in Bangladesh’s economy.

BDST: 1655 HRS, DEC 01, 2024
MSK