Stakeholders Submit 12-Point Charter to Combat Corruption in ICT Industry
Business leaders from the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector have submitted a 12-point demand aimed at curbing corruption, ensuring transparency, and fostering fair competition within the industry. Under the banner of ICT stakeholders, they handed over a memorandum outlining these demands.
On Wednesday (February 19), the stakeholders staged a sit-in protest in front of the Bangladesh Computer Council (BCC) building in Agargaon, Dhaka, before submitting their memorandum to ICT Secretary Shish Haider Chowdhury.
Expressing deep concerns, the stakeholders stated, "For the past 17 years, we have witnessed widespread corruption, nepotism, irregularities, and plundering in the ICT sector. These malpractices persist due to the actions of certain unscrupulous officials and businessmen. Without putting an end to these irregularities and removing corrupt officials appointed by fascist influences, it will be impossible to build a sustainable and transparent startup ecosystem in the post-July movement Bangladesh."
The 12-point charter presented by the business leaders includes:
-
Investigation and Prosecution of Corruption in the ICT Sector: A neutral investigation into the embezzlement of billions over the past 15 years is necessary. Legal action should be taken against responsible individuals and organizations, with blacklisting for those found guilty.
-
Transparent and Accountable Startup Ecosystem: Establish a business-friendly startup finance and ecosystem free from the influence of fascist-backed companies and officials.
-
Abolition of Syndicates in Government Software Projects: Ensure fair competition by dismantling syndicates controlling government software contracts.
-
Amendments to PPA/PPRA: Reform procurement policies for government ICT projects to promote fair competition.
-
Blacklisting of Fascist-Backed Companies: Identify and blacklist companies that misused government funds over the past 15 years.
-
Publication of a White Paper on Corruption: Form an impartial and participatory committee to expose the true extent of corruption in the ICT sector and publish a comprehensive white paper.
-
Removal of Controversial Officials: Dismiss individuals involved in corruption from policy-making and administrative roles in the ICT sector and appoint transparent and qualified professionals.
-
Resignation of Startup Bangladesh MD Sami Ahmed: To ensure transparency and justice within Startup Bangladesh, the resignation of Managing Director Sami Ahmed and his associates must be secured.
-
Investigation into Embezzlement and Money Laundering in ICT Services: Take strict action against those involved in corruption, embezzlement, and laundering under the guise of ICT services.
-
Level Playing Field for Startups and SMEs: Halt monopolistic privileges for large corporations and create fair opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups.
-
Transparency in Startup and SME Funds: Form an independent audit committee to ensure transparent allocation of startup and innovation funds.
-
Accountability and Transparency in ICT Ministry Operations: Make all activities and project details of the ICT Ministry publicly accessible to ensure accountability.
The stakeholders emphasized that unless these demands are met, achieving a transparent and thriving ICT ecosystem in Bangladesh will remain unattainable.
