Dhaka, 26 February 2026 – Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has voiced serious concerns regarding the recent appointment of a new governor of the central bank. The organisation has questioned the extent to which the newly appointed governor will be able to perform independently, free from corporate interests and political influence.
In a statement issued on Thursday, TIB highlighted that the governor’s prior experience in the banking sector has primarily revolved around debt management, non-performing loans, and debt restructuring. Furthermore, his professional background is closely linked to the ready-made garment industry, the real estate sector, and influential business lobby groups. Observers are now scrutinising how such connections might affect his autonomy and decision-making capacity at the helm of the central bank.
Dr. Iftikharuzzaman, Executive Director of TIB, said, “Nearly 60 per cent of members of parliament and 62 per cent of cabinet ministers come from business backgrounds, many of whom are indebted. Appointing a governor with prior experience in handling debt restructuring and non-performing loans, who has also been involved in sectors dominated by powerful business lobbies, presents a clear conflict of interest.”
TIB further noted that this is the first instance in Bangladesh’s history where a businessperson has been appointed as the central bank governor. Questions have also been raised about the appropriateness of assigning this critical role to a member of the ruling party’s election management committee.
Historically, the influence of party interests and powerful elites has destabilised the banking sector, contributing to a rise in non-performing loans and money laundering. In the current economic context, where attracting foreign investment and establishing governance in financial institutions is vital, the effectiveness of this appointment remains uncertain. The main challenges now include controlling inflation, ensuring financial stability, and taking corrective action against weak banks—tasks that hinge on the governor’s independence.
Key Information: New Central Bank Governor
| Subject | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Name | Not publicly disclosed | Business background |
| Previous Experience | Debt restructuring, non-performing loans, managing indebted processes | Direct banking sector involvement |
| Industry Links | Ready-made garments, real estate | Connected with influential business lobbies |
| Political Connection | Member of ruling party’s election committee | Potential conflict of interest |
| Historical Significance | First businessperson to become governor | National and international implications |
In conclusion, TIB emphasises that the governor’s independence, competence, and transparency will now be under scrutiny. His performance is expected to have a significant impact on the central bank’s stability, governance, and the broader economic environment. Citizens and international investors alike are watching closely, hoping the governor will operate above political and corporate pressures and strengthen Bangladesh’s financial sector.
This appointment represents a crucial test for the country, with the governor’s effectiveness directly linked to the future stability and resilience of the nation’s banking and economic systems.