Latest update: 12-05-2025, 20:15
Asif Mahmud Sajeeb Bhuiyan, Advisor to the Interim Government’s Ministry of Local Government and Youth Affairs, posted on Facebook that “when you ask for stolen money back, no one responds—there is no difference between friends of the former government and the head of state.” Although he did not name anyone directly, the veiled reference to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer sparked immediate political debate.
1. Background: Dr. Yunus’s Visit to London
Nobel laureate Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus is currently in London to press the UK government for the return of billions of dollars allegedly looted during the previous administration of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. So far, Prime Minister Starmer has not publicly engaged with Dr. Yunus, a fact widely noted by the media.
2. Dr. Yunus’s Ethical Appeal
In an interview with the Financial Times, Dr. Yunus argued that “the funds stolen during the last government must, on moral grounds, be identified and returned to Bangladesh.” He emphasized that a significant portion of these assets resides in the UK, making local cooperation essential.
3. Viral Public Reaction
Sajeeb’s post quickly went viral. Netizens expressed anger toward Prime Minister Starmer; one commented, “That’s still Britain’s prime minister,” while another quipped, “Some party loyalists even credit him for it!”
4. Seizure of Saifuzzaman’s Assets
Reports note that the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) has frozen nine properties owned by former Bangladeshi land minister Saifuzzaman Chowdhury in London, valued at roughly £9 million (approximately BDT 1,479 crore). Last year’s Al Jazeera investigation revealed he owned over 350 homes and flats, including a luxury residence in St John’s Wood—now also under asset freeze.
5. Future Implications
• Diplomatic Relations: Sajeeb’s public jab at the UK prime minister could strain Bangladesh–UK ties.
• Recovery Efforts: The success or failure of Dr. Yunus’s lobbying will shape the pace and scale of repatriating looted funds.
• Legal Cooperation: The extent of the NCA’s support will be pivotal for both Bangladesh’s rule of law and economic transparency.
