TIB welcomes move to scrap privilege perks for MPs, calls for stronger anti-corruption reforms

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has welcomed the government's decision to forgo duty-free car and government plot privileges for the elected MPs, calling it a well-timed and encouraging step toward ending long-standing discriminatory and authoritarian practices in governance.

In a statement today (18 February), TIB Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman said the move marks an important beginning in building a welfare-oriented, accountable and corruption-free Bangladesh.

He emphasised that while the declaration is positive, ensuring lasting change will require stronger measures to prevent corruption, enhance transparency, and uphold public accountability.

Dr Iftekharuzzaman urged the government to adopt an integrated National Anti-Corruption Strategy and implement systemic reforms based on the BNP's 31-point reform outline, the election manifesto, the July Charter, and the report of the Anti-Corruption Commission Reform Commission.

He also called for mandatory annual public disclosure of income, expenditure, and asset statements of all members of parliament and public office holders, including those of their family members, as a demonstration of genuine commitment to transparency.

Highlighting the need for legal and constitutional safeguards, Dr Iftekharuzzaman said reforms must address conflicts of interest, partisan favouritism, abuse of public power, bribery, tax evasion, money laundering, and other corrupt practices.

He stressed that meaningful anti-corruption efforts must involve political parties, state and non-state institutions, and citizens to ensure government initiatives benefit the people and strengthen democratic governance.