US blacklists former Bangladeshi military chief over corruption

WASHINGTON

The US blacklisted former chief of the Bangladesh Army Gen. Aziz Ahmed on Monday due to his involvement in "significant corruption."

"His actions have contributed to the undermining of Bangladesh’s democratic institutions and the public’s faith in public institutions and processes," State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said in a statement.

He engaged in "significant corruption" by interfering in public processes while helping his brother evade accountability for criminal activity in Bangladesh, Miller added.

"Aziz also worked closely with his brother to ensure the improper awarding of military contracts and accepted bribes in exchange for government appointments for his personal benefit," Miller said.

The designation reaffirms the US’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and the rule of law in Bangladesh, he said, adding the US supports anticorruption efforts in Bangladesh through assistance to make government services "more transparent and affordable, improve the business and regulatory environment, and build capacity in investigating and prosecuting money laundering and other financial crimes.”