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of the working environment and the institutional context of the ACC,” he said.

“Following the fall of an authoritarian kleptocratic regime, the reconstituted ACC during the interim period moved quickly to investigate corruption allegations involving individuals linked to the former regime, including several high-profile figures.”

However, he raised concerns about cases involving individuals aligned with the current power structure. Allegations suggest that some cases were disposed of quickly, raising questions about the commission’s independence.

“There is no credible evidence to suggest that all such allegations were politically motivated or intended as harassment,” he added.

He also questioned the ACC’s response to corruption allegations involving individuals linked to the government, particularly where higher-level influence may be involved.

“It would not be unreasonable to say that even in the post-authoritarian period, the ACC appears to have continued a long-standing practice -- showing greater activism in cases involving those outside the ruling circle, while maintaining distance in cases involving those in or close to power,” he said.

Former ACC director general (legal) Moyeedul Islam said, “Filing cases, submitting charge sheets, and increasing conviction rates indicate that the ACC is functioning. The most important issue is ensuring that those whose crimes are proven are brought to justice properly.”