Taqsem A Khan, the controversial former managing director of Dhaka Water Supply and Sewerage Authority (DWASA), became a symbol of corruption during the Awami League's tenure. Allegations against him include embezzling thousands of crores of taka through abuse of power in various projects. Despite numerous arrests of leaders and activists of the Awami League, Taqsem has remained at large. Speculation suggests he is hiding within the country under administrative protection, while reports indicate he is actively seeking ways to flee.
The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) imposed a 60-day travel ban on Taqsem on August 20. Last Wednesday, Dhaka Metropolitan Senior Special Judge Jakir Hossain extended this ban indefinitely following an ACC petition.
Since the fall of the Awami League government on August 5, Taqsem has been missing. He failed to attend work for eight consecutive days and submitted his resignation online on August 15, citing health issues. His current whereabouts remain uncertain, with conflicting reports suggesting he is either still in the country or has moved abroad.
Sources indicate that Taqsem was in Dhaka during Sheikh Hasina’s departure from the country and initially attempted to maintain his position. However, he resigned amid shifting political circumstances. As the investigation continues, questions about his location and accountability persist.
Taqsem A Khan, the controversial former managing director of Dhaka WASA, is reportedly in the custody of a law enforcement agency and is expected to leave for the United States soon. Taqsem and his entire family hold U.S. citizenship, with his wife and only child residing there permanently.
Appointed as MD of Dhaka WASA in 2009, Taqsem saw his tenure repeatedly extended despite widespread allegations of corruption, irregularities, and misuse of power. His latest three-year extension—the seventh—came as recently as August last year.
During his tenure, several large-scale projects were undertaken by Dhaka WASA, funded primarily through foreign loans. These projects have left the organization burdened with over Tk 25,000 crore in debt. Officials cite delays in project implementation and inefficiencies in launching completed projects as key factors driving up costs.
While some improvements in water management services have been noted since 2009, the quality of service has not met expectations. Water prices have surged 14 times during Taqsem’s leadership, yet the supply deficit remains at approximately 40 crore liters daily.
Meanwhile, tensions at Dhaka WASA escalated on Sunday when Deputy Managing Directors AKM Shahid Uddin (Operation and Maintenance) and Akhtaruzzaman (Finance) were forced out of the WASA building by employees. The two officials were accused of being close allies of the ousted fascist Awami League government and Taqsem A Khan.
Bd-pratidin English
Translated by Jisan Al Jubair
