Wed Jan 15 06:39:54 UTC 2025: ## Bangladesh’s Interim Leader Demands Return of Stolen Assets Amidst Corruption Scandal
**DHAKA, Bangladesh (January 15, 2025)** – Bangladesh’s chief advisor, Professor Muhammad Yunus, issued a strong call today for the return of billions of dollars in stolen public funds, condemning the widespread corruption under the ousted government of Sheikh Hasina. Hasina, who fled to India following a revolution in August 2024, is facing charges including mass murder and has refused extradition requests.
Yunus stated that the stolen funds, estimated to be in the billions, have created a significant financial deficit and severely hampered the nation’s economic progress. He emphasized his commitment to working with international partners to ensure justice is served and assets are returned.
The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) is currently investigating Hasina and her family, including her niece, former British Minister Tulip Siddiq, in connection with the embezzlement of $5 billion linked to a Russian-funded nuclear power plant and alleged land grabbing. Siddiq resigned from her position on Tuesday but denied any wrongdoing.
A British Sunday Times investigation revealed details about Siddiq’s use of London properties allegedly purchased with funds connected to Bangladeshi businessmen with links to Hasina’s Awami League party. Yunus called upon Siddiq to seek forgiveness from the Bangladeshi people, suggesting she may not have been fully aware of the funds’ origins. The investigation also revealed other properties used by Siddiq and her family linked to the party. The scale of the alleged corruption has fueled ongoing civil unrest in the country.
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