Allegations have emerged at the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) against private television journalist Golam Rabbani and his wife regarding enormous suspicious financial transactions. Despite a declared annual income of only BDT 342,000, bank records indicate around BDT 17.5 crore in their accounts.
According to the complaint filed with the ACC, Rabbani, claiming the title of โJuly Warriorโ after the student-led public uprising on August 5, 2024, allegedly created an extortion syndicate over the past 17 months. The allegations suggest he promised to remove names from various criminal cases in exchange for large sums of money.
The complaint also mentions a controversial incident in which BDT 1.3 crore in cash was reportedly taken from a secret chamber of former Rajshahi mayor A.H.M. Khairuzzaman Litonโs office on August 5, with Rabbani allegedly connected to the event. Additionally, despite a modest declared income, Rabbani reportedly purchased 8.5 acres of uncultivated land in Tanore, Rajshahi, valued at BDT 2.74 crore in 2023, raising further questions about the source of his wealth.
Rabbaniโs political background has also drawn attention. Although his family has a Jamaat affiliation, he maintained close connections with local and central Awami League leaders for the past decade. Leveraging foreign connections, particularly with Turkey, he allegedly built networks that bolstered his position during the 2024 movement, claiming the role of its โmastermind.โ
However, internal conflicts eventually brought the matter to light. Over financial disputes spanning nearly two years, his former close associate and ex-student coordinator Jannatul Ferdous filed complaints against him, including allegations of sexual harassment.
Rabbani has publicly denied wrongdoing, stating, โAnyone can make accusations against me, but an allegation does not mean guilt. I remain firm in my position.โ
Experts note that the accusations, if true, indicate rapid wealth accumulation through political influence and exploitation of the August 5 uprising. They emphasize that a thorough and transparent investigation by the ACC is essential to determine whether the assets were acquired legitimately or through abuse of political power.
The allegations have sparked significant political and public debate in Rajshahi and surrounding areas. Observers stress that only a swift, impartial, and transparent inquiry can dispel doubts and restore public confidence.
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