Bangladesh’s anti-corruption commission announced on Monday the initiation of a probe into allegations of $5 billion embezzlement linked to the Rooppur nuclear power plant, involving former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her family. The investigation comes in the wake of a writ filed in the high court by Hasina’s political rival, Bobby Hajjaj, chairman of the Nationalist Democratic Movement party.
The inquiry targets Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India following her ousting in a revolution in August, as well as her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, and her niece, Tulip Siddiq, a British lawmaker and government minister. Hajjaj expressed his determination for justice, stating, “We seek justice through our court.”
Rooppur nuclear plant is Bangladesh’s first nuclear facility
Key allegations center around the funding of the $12.65 billion Rooppur nuclear plant, Bangladesh’s first nuclear facility, which is primarily financed by Russia through a 90 percent loan. The anti-corruption commission’s statement revealed that it is investigating claims that Hasina and her family members “embezzled $5 billion” from the project via “various offshore bank accounts in Malaysia.”
The commission is also examining “questionable procurement practices related to the overpriced construction” of the nuclear plant. Concerns have been raised regarding potential kickbacks, mismanagement, money laundering, and abuse of power, which could undermine the integrity of the project and the proper use of public funds. Additional graft allegations include theft from a government housing scheme for the homeless.
Sheikh Hasina, 77, fled Bangladesh by helicopter on August 5, seeking refuge in India, which has angered many citizens who believe she should face trial for alleged “mass murder.” Attempts to contact Hasina for comment were unsuccessful.
Tulip Siddiq has publicly denied any involvement in the embezzlement allegations, as stated by the British prime minister’s office. Sajeeb Wazed Joy, who is reportedly residing in the United States, was also unavailable for comment.
