TIB warns labeling road extortion as ‘mutual settlement’ may normalize corruption

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has cautioned against describing extortion in the road transport sector as a “mutual settlement,” arguing it could legitimize corruption and contradict the government’s stated “zero tolerance” policy. TIB emphasized that recharacterizing extortion as a negotiated transaction undermines the government’s commitment to fighting corruption and could encourage similar unethical practices in other sectors, including state services and development administration.

Dr. Iftekharuzzaman, TIB’s Executive Director, stated that the transport minister’s definition of extortion clashes with the government’s anti-corruption pledges outlined in its election manifesto and the Prime Minister’s address. He criticized attempts to justify extortion under the guise of owner and worker welfare, arguing it would entrench disorder and ultimately burden passengers and transport workers.

TIB urged the government to reject the transport minister’s remarks and ensure accountability. They also called for internal party reforms and disciplinary measures, appealing to the Prime Minister to prevent actions that could erode public confidence and harm the democratic process. The organization warned that accepting road extortion as a settlement could extend the same logic to other critical sectors like healthcare, education, and law enforcement, severely damaging governance and accountability.

(Source：Daily Observer)