Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has stated that gifts offered by contractors to government engineers in public procurement processes could be tantamount to bribery, and that a state minister's recent remarks may legitimize such practices. The anti-corruption watchdog has formally sought an explanation from the minister and the senior secretary whose advice he reportedly cited.

TIB's Concerns

In a statement issued on Wednesday, TIB said the exchange of gifts between contractors and government officials is a sensitive issue. The organization noted that while the law draws a distinction between a gift and a bribe, in practice this line often becomes blurred. TIB expressed apprehension that a senior minister's remarks could encourage corruption and undermine transparency in public projects.

Legal Framework

Under Bangladesh's Anti-Corruption Commission Act, 2004, accepting any financial benefit or bribe by a public servant in exchange for performing official duties is a punishable offense. However, the law lacks clear guidelines on what constitutes a "gift" and under what circumstances it may be classified as a bribe. TIB stated that this ambiguity could be exploited through the minister's comments.

Minister's Remarks and Reactions

TIB's statement highlighted that the state minister referred to the advice of a senior secretary in his remarks, which the organization views as an attempt to institutionalize the acceptance of bribes. The watchdog emphasized the urgent need to clarify the policy regarding gift acceptance by government officials. TIB has made a formal request to the government, seeking written explanations from both the minister and the secretary.

Context and Next Steps

While the practice of contractors giving gifts to government engineering departments is not new, TIB noted that this is the first time such a stance has been publicly articulated by a minister. The organization has called for a parliamentary discussion on the matter and proactive involvement of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC). TIB expects the government to issue a swift clarification and undertake necessary legal reforms.