A court in Dhaka has ordered the seizure of 136 bank accounts linked to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, her sister Sheikh Rehana, and their family. The ruling also includes six bank accounts belonging to the Awami League, the political party Hasina leads. This is a rare move against Bangladesh’s most powerful political family.
The Bangladesh Anti-Corruption Bureau (ABB) requested the court’s action under the interim government led by Md Yunus. Authorities also seized assets, including a house in Dhanmondi owned by Hasina’s son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, and daughter, Saima Wazed Putul.
Other properties affected include apartments in Gulshan and a house in Gazipur belonging to Rehana’s children, Tulip Siddique and Radowan Mujib Siddique.
This is the first time Hasina’s assets have been frozen since she lost power. Political analysts see this as part of a broader crackdown on corruption among Bangladesh’s political elite.
The Awami League is unsure how much money is in the seized accounts, but the party has not used these funds since August 5 of last year, the day Hasina left the country. The financial freeze is expected to affect party operations, especially with elections approaching.
Also read: Got 'no response' from India on Hasina's extradition: Yunus
The Bangladesh Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has accused Hasina and Rehana of secretly controlling large amounts of wealth despite not officially owning property or vehicles. On Monday, the ACC formally charged them with unfairly distributing flats in a new housing project in Dhaka.
The interim government has approved these charges, which detail alleged favoritism and financial mismanagement.
Political and Legal Impact
The case has sparked controversy in Bangladesh. Supporters of the interim government say it is a step toward fighting corruption, while Hasina’s allies claim it is a political attack meant to weaken her influence.
As investigations continue, the court’s decision marks a major shift in Bangladesh’s efforts to address corruption among its political leaders.
Also Read: Hasina accuses Yunus, his allies of backing 'pro-Pak' groups
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