WB panel seeks info on ACC probe

The World Bank’s external panel has sought some clarifications on the procedure of the Anti-Corruption Commission’s investigation into the Padma bridge graft allegation.

“We have sought clarifications from the ACC on some issues which would be necessary to assess whether a complete and fair investigation is underway,” Luis Moreno Ocampo, chairman of the WB’s External Panel of Experts, said in an email sent to the media Tuesday evening.

“We are awaiting a response from the ACC to these queries in order to move ahead with our assessment.”

Ocampo said, “In reviewing the First Information Report based on the evidence available to the ACC, we are concerned about the current scope of the investigation.”

He however appreciated the “frank discussions” that they had with the ACC during their visits to Dhaka last year.

“We recognize that the lodging of the First Information Report in order to initiate an investigation is an important step forward in addressing evidence of corruption under the Padma Bridge project,” the panel chief added.

Source: The Daily Star