ACC reopens investigation into corruption cases involving Sheikh Hasina and the Novo Theatre project

In a significant move, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has decided to restart investigations into three corruption cases filed against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. 

These cases are linked to the construction of the Bangabandhu Novo Theatre, a project that has long been under scrutiny.

Back in 2001, just two days before stepping down from office, Sheikh Hasina gave approval for the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Novo Theatre project. 

However, this approval raised red flags because it was done in violation of official procedures. 

The project, which was valued at 120 crore taka, was passed without the required quorum in the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC). 

This breach of protocol led to accusations of corruption, as it was alleged that the project was awarded to preferred contractors through irregular practices.

These concerns resulted in the filing of a case by the Bureau of Anti-Corruption in 2002.

According to sources, during her time in power in 1996, it was uncovered that nearly 120 crore taka had been misused through the appointment of contractors and consultants. 

Then, just before her departure from office in 2001, the project received approval from ECNEC, despite the absence of many key members. 

Only six out of 13 members attended the meeting, violating the rules. 

As a result, three separate cases were filed against Sheikh Hasina and six of her ministers, including former ministers Shah A.M.S. Kibria, A.S.H.K. Sadeque, Tofail Ahmed, Motia Chowdhury, and Mohiuddin Khan Alamgir. 

Sadly, three of these individuals have since passed away.

This new investigation marks the continuation of a long-standing legal battle surrounding the project and raises further questions about the handling of public funds.