The government has imposed strict measures on banks and non-banking financial institutions to curb the influence of black money in the voting process, amid allegations that illicit funds are already circulating in rural and marginalised areas of the country.
As part of the measures, bank transactions and mobile financial services have been restricted during the voting period. Political parties have alleged that black money has spread to several remote areas, accompanied by voter intimidation and attempts to influence low-income voters through financial inducements.
The interim government has issued firm instructions to prevent the use of black money and muscle power in the 13th National Parliament elections. Bangladesh Bank, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), the National Board of Revenue (NBR), district and upazila administrations, intelligence agencies, Bangladesh Bank’s Financial Intelligence Unit and the NBR’s Central Intelligence Cell have been directed to remain actively engaged.
Alongside enforcement, the government is running awareness campaigns through various media to build a social movement against black money and muscle power. However, intelligence sources said illicit funds may still be circulating in some areas despite these efforts.
From midnight on February 10 until polling day, special attention is being given to prevent party workers and supporters from contacting voters for unlawful purposes.
ACC Chairman Abdul Momen said members of parliament face the highest number of corruption allegations and stressed that corruption cannot be curbed unless the culture of nominating corrupt candidates and money-driven electoral politics is addressed.
He said the ACC would maintain strict vigilance throughout the election period.
Sources said immediate action is being taken against anyone accused of distributing black money. Authorities will also be able to instantly verify the banking transactions of suspects using mobile devices, while the Election Commission is closely monitoring the situation.
The Office of the Chief Adviser has instructed relevant organisations at the divisional, district and upazila levels to strengthen enforcement, including the operation of mobile courts by concerned agencies such as the ACC.
The government has emphasised that preventing the influence of black money is not possible without the awareness and cooperation of both candidates and voters, and local administrations have been directed to play an active role.
Meanwhile, the ACC has deployed teams at the field level to prevent the use of black money and to strengthen the verification of candidates’ affidavits. A special task force committee has been formed for this purpose.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
