Boltu which proposal do you think is the most feasible one for BAL to loot. I am guessing no.5 the speaker's suggestion. Companies like Bharti airtel will make a fortune eh?
World Bank cancels Bangladesh bridge loan over corruption
- Thread starter BanglaBhoot
- Start date
Boltu which proposal do you think is the most feasible one for BAL to loot. I am guessing no.5 the speaker's suggestion. Companies like Bharti airtel will make a fortune eh?
Most hilarious, for those who do not understand Bangla:
This is a statement from an ordinary and old Bangladeshi citizen who said if needed we would cross river Padma by swimming but please stop Awami League lie and deception. That is how much people dispice Awami league in Bangladesh. At the bottom of the poster there are number of contradictory statements by Awami league leaders made to cover up their corruption in Padma bridge projects.
Awami League PM, Sheikh Hasina: we will build Padma bridge with our own money
Awami League FM, Abdul Muhit: build Padma bridge with our own money is not possible
Awami League Leader, Shajeda Chowdhury: we will build Padma bridge by saving money from our grocery
Already corrupt Awami League minister Suranjit Sen Gupta: we will build Padma bridge with 32 crore hand or 16 crore people.
Awami League Speaker, Abdul Hamid: we will build Padma bridge by imposing 25 cent (paisa) tax in each mobile call
This is a statement from an ordinary and old Bangladeshi citizen who said if needed we would cross river Padma by swimming but please stop Awami League lie and deception. That is how much people dispice Awami league in Bangladesh. At the bottom of the poster there are number of contradictory statements by Awami league leaders made to cover up their corruption in Padma bridge projects.
Awami League PM, Sheikh Hasina: we will build Padma bridge with our own money
Awami League FM, Abdul Muhit: build Padma bridge with our own money is not possible
Awami League Leader, Shajeda Chowdhury: we will build Padma bridge by saving money from our grocery
Already corrupt Awami League minister Suranjit Sen Gupta: we will build Padma bridge with 32 crore hand or 16 crore people.
Awami League Speaker, Abdul Hamid: we will build Padma bridge by imposing 25 cent (paisa) tax in each mobile call
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JICA wants govt action on Padma Bridge 'graft'
FE Report
Bangladesh government should take constructive measures to address "the corruption issue" relating to the Padma Bridge Project, a senior Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) representative in Dhaka said Tuesday.
"JICA is seriously considering the corruption issue and now consulting with Japanese government for its future course of action," the JICA senior representative Kei Toyama said at a media briefing at Haripur 412 megawatt (mw) power plant project site in Narayanganj.
JICA is providing 71 per cent fund for construction of the Tk 35 billion Haripur 412 mw power plant project.
"We are keenly watching what measures the government is taking against corruption regarding the Padma Bridge project," said Mr Toyama, the second top official of the Japanese donor agency's Dhaka Office, responding to a query.
JICA is one of the co-financiers of the Padma Bridge project with a funding commitment of US$400 million.
Mr Toyama's comment spelling out JICA's stance over the corruption issue of the Padma Bridge project came following the cancellation of the committed fund for it by two major development partners, World Bank (WB) and Asian Development Bank (ADB) project.
Mr Toyama said his agency's funding support for the Padma Bridge project would depend on the government's constructive steps against corruption.
Everything will depend on what steps the government would take in this connection, he added.
Mr Toyama, however, could not exactly say how long it would take for the JICA to come up with a decision about its stance on funding the Padma Bridge project.
The WB had promised to finance $1.2 billion and ADB had pledged for $615 million for the project.
But the WB on June 29 cancelled the deal over its funding commitment to construct the Padma Bridge project and the ADB followed the WB suit.
The Jeddah-based Islamic Development Bank, yet another co-financier of Padma Bridge project, is yet to come up with any decision over its funding commitment in Padma Bridge project.
The IDB has a funding commitment worth $140 million to build the Padma Bridge project.
The JICA whose contribution in power generation is around 1,170 mw accounting for 22.50 per cent of Bangladesh's total electricity generation capacity, organised a press tour to New 412 mw Haripur Power Plant Project at Haripur, Narayanganj.
JICA has so far extended 24 official development assistance (ODA) loans for power generation, transmission and distribution, said Mr. Toyama.
Two more projects are under consideration, totaling an amount to the tune of approximately $ 2.7 billion, he said.
Haripur 100 mw power plant, Kaptai hydro power plant 4th and 5th units, Sylhet 90 mw combined cycle power plant, barge mounted power plants in Chittagong & Khulna, rural electrification projects for establishment of seven Palli Biddut Samities (PBSs), system loss reduction pilot project and Bakhrabad natural gas development project are among the projects in power and energy sector completed under ODA loans.
Haripur 412 mw combined cycle power plant project is being implemented by State-owned Electricity Generation Company of Bangladesh (EGCB).
Japanese Marubeni Corporation was awarded the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract on February 9, 2011 to implement the project within 29 months.
The power plant will be the most efficient power plant in Bangladesh, said EGCB Managing Director Mr Mostafa Kamal.
Electricity generation costs for every unit will be around Tk 1.91-1.92 per unit (1 kWh).
The construction of the power plant is going on in accordance with the schedule and the simple cycle power plant, having the generation capacity of 273 mw, will come online by February 2013 and the combined cycle plant will be operational by July 2013, upon completion of their construction.
The government is eyeing on early implementation of the Haripur 412 mw power plant and already constituted a 14-member task force for quick arrangement of gas supply to the plant site.
It will consume around 64 million cubic feet per day (mmcfd) of natural gas to run the power plant in full swing.
JICA wants govt action on Padma Bridge 'graft'
FE Report
Bangladesh government should take constructive measures to address "the corruption issue" relating to the Padma Bridge Project, a senior Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) representative in Dhaka said Tuesday.
"JICA is seriously considering the corruption issue and now consulting with Japanese government for its future course of action," the JICA senior representative Kei Toyama said at a media briefing at Haripur 412 megawatt (mw) power plant project site in Narayanganj.
JICA is providing 71 per cent fund for construction of the Tk 35 billion Haripur 412 mw power plant project.
"We are keenly watching what measures the government is taking against corruption regarding the Padma Bridge project," said Mr Toyama, the second top official of the Japanese donor agency's Dhaka Office, responding to a query.
JICA is one of the co-financiers of the Padma Bridge project with a funding commitment of US$400 million.
Mr Toyama's comment spelling out JICA's stance over the corruption issue of the Padma Bridge project came following the cancellation of the committed fund for it by two major development partners, World Bank (WB) and Asian Development Bank (ADB) project.
Mr Toyama said his agency's funding support for the Padma Bridge project would depend on the government's constructive steps against corruption.
Everything will depend on what steps the government would take in this connection, he added.
Mr Toyama, however, could not exactly say how long it would take for the JICA to come up with a decision about its stance on funding the Padma Bridge project.
The WB had promised to finance $1.2 billion and ADB had pledged for $615 million for the project.
But the WB on June 29 cancelled the deal over its funding commitment to construct the Padma Bridge project and the ADB followed the WB suit.
The Jeddah-based Islamic Development Bank, yet another co-financier of Padma Bridge project, is yet to come up with any decision over its funding commitment in Padma Bridge project.
The IDB has a funding commitment worth $140 million to build the Padma Bridge project.
The JICA whose contribution in power generation is around 1,170 mw accounting for 22.50 per cent of Bangladesh's total electricity generation capacity, organised a press tour to New 412 mw Haripur Power Plant Project at Haripur, Narayanganj.
JICA has so far extended 24 official development assistance (ODA) loans for power generation, transmission and distribution, said Mr. Toyama.
Two more projects are under consideration, totaling an amount to the tune of approximately $ 2.7 billion, he said.
Haripur 100 mw power plant, Kaptai hydro power plant 4th and 5th units, Sylhet 90 mw combined cycle power plant, barge mounted power plants in Chittagong & Khulna, rural electrification projects for establishment of seven Palli Biddut Samities (PBSs), system loss reduction pilot project and Bakhrabad natural gas development project are among the projects in power and energy sector completed under ODA loans.
Haripur 412 mw combined cycle power plant project is being implemented by State-owned Electricity Generation Company of Bangladesh (EGCB).
Japanese Marubeni Corporation was awarded the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract on February 9, 2011 to implement the project within 29 months.
The power plant will be the most efficient power plant in Bangladesh, said EGCB Managing Director Mr Mostafa Kamal.
Electricity generation costs for every unit will be around Tk 1.91-1.92 per unit (1 kWh).
The construction of the power plant is going on in accordance with the schedule and the simple cycle power plant, having the generation capacity of 273 mw, will come online by February 2013 and the combined cycle plant will be operational by July 2013, upon completion of their construction.
The government is eyeing on early implementation of the Haripur 412 mw power plant and already constituted a 14-member task force for quick arrangement of gas supply to the plant site.
It will consume around 64 million cubic feet per day (mmcfd) of natural gas to run the power plant in full swing.
JICA wants govt action on Padma Bridge 'graft'
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He had some illicit relation with some member of Sheikh family lady that i heard
Just so people are upto date on Awami corruption, lie and deception track:
Awami League finance minister stop short of begging WB to reconsider the loan.
Muhith hopes WB rethink this month | Business | bdnews24.com
Here Awami league deploy its party thugs to hide Awami corruption behind Bangladesh name. As if people who run WB from behind does not know difference between corrupt Awami agenda and national interest. Also note how bdnews24 package the news and hide Awami thugs behind "NRB" label.
NRBs demonstrate at WB HQs | Bangladesh | bdnews24.com
Awami League finance minister stop short of begging WB to reconsider the loan.
Muhith hopes WB rethink this month | Business | bdnews24.com
Here Awami league deploy its party thugs to hide Awami corruption behind Bangladesh name. As if people who run WB from behind does not know difference between corrupt Awami agenda and national interest. Also note how bdnews24 package the news and hide Awami thugs behind "NRB" label.
NRBs demonstrate at WB HQs | Bangladesh | bdnews24.com
Awami league deception and lie to cover Padma bridge corruption on July 12th, 2012:
Please note ADB and JICA very much turned down Awami League appeal once and asked ti investigate corruption which Awami league regime refused to do.
While Muhit begging donor organizations for money, Hasina making lie to people in every breath she takes:
Please note ADB and JICA very much turned down Awami League appeal once and asked ti investigate corruption which Awami league regime refused to do.
While Muhit begging donor organizations for money, Hasina making lie to people in every breath she takes:
Japan to 'wait and see' Padma steps
Dhaka, Jul 15 (bdnews24.com) Tokyo would 'wait and see' what Dhaka was doing regarding the corruption allegations raised in the Padma bridge project before taking a final decision about its finance, Japanese ambassador to Bangladesh Shiro Sadoshima has said.
"There are allegations out there and you [Bangladesh government] have to deal with it," Sadoshima said while exchanging views with diplomatic correspondents at the National Press Club on Sunday
Japanese decision would depend on the steps taken by the Bangladesh government related to 'governance and corruption', he added.
The envoy however said he expected 'good news' from Tokyo on constructing metro rail project.
On June 29 WB cancelled its promised loan of $1.2 billion for the $2.9 billion Padma bridge project alleging corruption. Japan's JICA has committed $400 million for the project.
Sadoshima said Japan was committed about the fund, but could not do anything alone, adding it would not be possible for them to provide the amount the World Bank was suppose to lend for the project.
"We are discussing the financing issue among ourselves as our taxpayers would raise question about our spending."
"Bangladesh's position in CPI (corruption perception index) is not recommendable," he added.
The envoy however believed that the Bangladesh government was looking for the truth about the corruption allegation.
He also said that Bangladesh was sincere in formulating policies about 'governance, integrity and corruption' and when these policies would be in place, it would bring good result.
The Japanese envoy said the source of financing was important to keep the cost at a 'reasonable' level so that people can avail the service.
Otherwise, it would put financial burden on the government, he added.
Political stability
The envoy said the democratic system in Bangladesh was not functioning properly and from the investors' point view, it was 'not a good thing'.
"I hope the political situation is less violent in the coming years."
He, however, said Tokyo had confidence in Dhaka adding that the Japanese investment was growing in Bangladesh.
Japan to 'wait and see' Padma steps | Business | bdnews24.com
Dhaka, Jul 15 (bdnews24.com) Tokyo would 'wait and see' what Dhaka was doing regarding the corruption allegations raised in the Padma bridge project before taking a final decision about its finance, Japanese ambassador to Bangladesh Shiro Sadoshima has said.
"There are allegations out there and you [Bangladesh government] have to deal with it," Sadoshima said while exchanging views with diplomatic correspondents at the National Press Club on Sunday
Japanese decision would depend on the steps taken by the Bangladesh government related to 'governance and corruption', he added.
The envoy however said he expected 'good news' from Tokyo on constructing metro rail project.
On June 29 WB cancelled its promised loan of $1.2 billion for the $2.9 billion Padma bridge project alleging corruption. Japan's JICA has committed $400 million for the project.
Sadoshima said Japan was committed about the fund, but could not do anything alone, adding it would not be possible for them to provide the amount the World Bank was suppose to lend for the project.
"We are discussing the financing issue among ourselves as our taxpayers would raise question about our spending."
"Bangladesh's position in CPI (corruption perception index) is not recommendable," he added.
The envoy however believed that the Bangladesh government was looking for the truth about the corruption allegation.
He also said that Bangladesh was sincere in formulating policies about 'governance, integrity and corruption' and when these policies would be in place, it would bring good result.
The Japanese envoy said the source of financing was important to keep the cost at a 'reasonable' level so that people can avail the service.
Otherwise, it would put financial burden on the government, he added.
Political stability
The envoy said the democratic system in Bangladesh was not functioning properly and from the investors' point view, it was 'not a good thing'.
"I hope the political situation is less violent in the coming years."
He, however, said Tokyo had confidence in Dhaka adding that the Japanese investment was growing in Bangladesh.
Japan to 'wait and see' Padma steps | Business | bdnews24.com
AL is digging it's grave in every turn it takes. They shouldn't have messed with Dr. Muhammad Yunus and his Grameen Bank. I would not be surprised if US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and her husband former president Bill Clinton influenced the World Bank to go against AL. Dr. Muhammad Yunus is a very close family friend of the Clintons, so messing with him is messing with the Clintons.
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Some were saying that.
But the theory was denied by Dan Mozena.
daily sun | First Page | ‘Talks on Padma Bridge may restart’
'Padma bridge fundraising triggered RU clash'
Tue, Jul 17th, 2012 11:55 am BdST
Ibnul Quayes Sony, Nadim Mahmud and Liakat Ali Badal
Rajshahi University/Rajshahi/Rangpur, Jul 17 (bdnews24.com) Padma bride fundraising triggered the factional clash at Rajshahi University, a number of leaders of the Bangladesh Chhatra League RU unit hinted though there was leadership dispute after the unit's full committee was formed.
One student was killed in the clash on Sunday midnight between the supporters of the unit's president and general secretary.
Social science department's final-year student Abdullah Al Hasan alias Sohel Rana, who was shot in the eyes and succumbed to his injuries at Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) hours later on Monday, was also a leader of Sher-e-Bangla A K Fazlul Huq Hall unit of RU Chhatra League, ruling Awami League's student wing.
However, bdnews24.com found out that all his family members residing in Rangpur were connected to Jamaat-e-Islami, a key ally of the main opposition BNP.
The Central Committee of BCL has expelled the university chapter's Vice-President Akheruzzaman Takim and Organising Secretary Touhid Al Tuhin for violating 'organisation discipline' even though university unit of BCL recommended expulsion of eight activists.
The BCL RU unit full committee was announced on Jun 25. Then the new committee at a meeting on Jul 4 divided the university and its dormitories into 27 units and announced to form new committees for each unit.
The moment the announcement came dispute among the BCL leaders and activists surfaced over getting posts in new committees. A clash broke out on that night and two activists got injured.
Meanwhile, the BCL university unit started collecting funds for the Padma bridge after government announced to pursue the project with local finance following the World Bank's decision to cancel its $1.2 billion promised loan for the country's biggest ever infrastructure project alleging corruption.
The Vice-Chancellor of the university Prof Abdus Sobhan inaugurated the BCL RU unit's fund raising drive on Jul 12.
Earlier, Organising Secretary Towhid Al Tuhin had told bdnews24.com that so far they raised Tk 18,000 for the Padma bridge project.
International Affairs Secretary Mehadi Hasan Bari said that Sunday's clash ensued following an argument between the supporters of BCL RU unit President Ali Ahmed and General Secretary Abu Hossain Bipu over the control on the fund.
Bari told bdnews24.com the issue of authority over the fund collection was discussed in front of the Ismail Hossain Siraji building Sunday evening where both the president and general secretary were present with their followers.
President's supporter Tuhin and general secretary's supporter Akheruzzaman Takim, also the unit vice-president, had an argument over the issue.
Tuhin also confirmed bdnews24.com about the dispute over establishing authority on fund collection, but requested bdnews24.com correspondent 'not take it seriously'. "They [president and general secretary] have asked us not to highlight this issue [dispute over authority on fund raising for Padma bridge]."
Bari, however, said supporters of the president went back to their dormitories after the argument but the general secretary's followers stayed.
Then Tuhin and Takim engaged into another argument around 11am on Sunday at Madar Bakhsh Hall which led to the clash and gunfight between the two factions.
Takim, however, claimed the reason behind the clash was not the fund collection for the Padma bridge. "It is the responsibility of the president and general secretary to oversee the fund collection and control the fund."
BCL RU unit General Secretary Bipu also declined the allegation that dispute over establishing authority on the fund collection was the reason behind the clash. Unit President Ali Ahmed declined to comment on the matter.
The RU Syndicate launched an investigation into the incident on Monday. A five-strong committee headed by Prof Golam Kabir of Botany Department has been formed and has been asked to submit a report within 15 days.
Sohel's father Jamaat leader
Meanwhile, Rangpur District Jamaat-e-Islami chief Mahbubur Rahman Belal told bdnews24.com that Sohel Rana who died in the clash was the son of his party's Kaunia Upazila chapter chief Abdus Salam Sarker.
Though Sohel was involved with Chhatra League in the Rajshahi University campus, his family claimed that he was not involved with any organisations.
Residents of Bhootchhara village at Kaunia upazila, Sohel's ancestral home, told bdnews24.com's Rangpur correspondent that all members of Sohel's family were actively involved with the Jamaat and it's student front Islami Chhatra Shibir.
Social science department final-year student Sohel was the eldest among his parent's five children.
'Padma bridge fundraising triggered RU clash' | Bangladesh | bdnews24.com
Tue, Jul 17th, 2012 11:55 am BdST
Ibnul Quayes Sony, Nadim Mahmud and Liakat Ali Badal
Rajshahi University/Rajshahi/Rangpur, Jul 17 (bdnews24.com) Padma bride fundraising triggered the factional clash at Rajshahi University, a number of leaders of the Bangladesh Chhatra League RU unit hinted though there was leadership dispute after the unit's full committee was formed.
One student was killed in the clash on Sunday midnight between the supporters of the unit's president and general secretary.
Social science department's final-year student Abdullah Al Hasan alias Sohel Rana, who was shot in the eyes and succumbed to his injuries at Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) hours later on Monday, was also a leader of Sher-e-Bangla A K Fazlul Huq Hall unit of RU Chhatra League, ruling Awami League's student wing.
However, bdnews24.com found out that all his family members residing in Rangpur were connected to Jamaat-e-Islami, a key ally of the main opposition BNP.
The Central Committee of BCL has expelled the university chapter's Vice-President Akheruzzaman Takim and Organising Secretary Touhid Al Tuhin for violating 'organisation discipline' even though university unit of BCL recommended expulsion of eight activists.
The BCL RU unit full committee was announced on Jun 25. Then the new committee at a meeting on Jul 4 divided the university and its dormitories into 27 units and announced to form new committees for each unit.
The moment the announcement came dispute among the BCL leaders and activists surfaced over getting posts in new committees. A clash broke out on that night and two activists got injured.
Meanwhile, the BCL university unit started collecting funds for the Padma bridge after government announced to pursue the project with local finance following the World Bank's decision to cancel its $1.2 billion promised loan for the country's biggest ever infrastructure project alleging corruption.
The Vice-Chancellor of the university Prof Abdus Sobhan inaugurated the BCL RU unit's fund raising drive on Jul 12.
Earlier, Organising Secretary Towhid Al Tuhin had told bdnews24.com that so far they raised Tk 18,000 for the Padma bridge project.
International Affairs Secretary Mehadi Hasan Bari said that Sunday's clash ensued following an argument between the supporters of BCL RU unit President Ali Ahmed and General Secretary Abu Hossain Bipu over the control on the fund.
Bari told bdnews24.com the issue of authority over the fund collection was discussed in front of the Ismail Hossain Siraji building Sunday evening where both the president and general secretary were present with their followers.
President's supporter Tuhin and general secretary's supporter Akheruzzaman Takim, also the unit vice-president, had an argument over the issue.
Tuhin also confirmed bdnews24.com about the dispute over establishing authority on fund collection, but requested bdnews24.com correspondent 'not take it seriously'. "They [president and general secretary] have asked us not to highlight this issue [dispute over authority on fund raising for Padma bridge]."
Bari, however, said supporters of the president went back to their dormitories after the argument but the general secretary's followers stayed.
Then Tuhin and Takim engaged into another argument around 11am on Sunday at Madar Bakhsh Hall which led to the clash and gunfight between the two factions.
Takim, however, claimed the reason behind the clash was not the fund collection for the Padma bridge. "It is the responsibility of the president and general secretary to oversee the fund collection and control the fund."
BCL RU unit General Secretary Bipu also declined the allegation that dispute over establishing authority on the fund collection was the reason behind the clash. Unit President Ali Ahmed declined to comment on the matter.
The RU Syndicate launched an investigation into the incident on Monday. A five-strong committee headed by Prof Golam Kabir of Botany Department has been formed and has been asked to submit a report within 15 days.
Sohel's father Jamaat leader
Meanwhile, Rangpur District Jamaat-e-Islami chief Mahbubur Rahman Belal told bdnews24.com that Sohel Rana who died in the clash was the son of his party's Kaunia Upazila chapter chief Abdus Salam Sarker.
Though Sohel was involved with Chhatra League in the Rajshahi University campus, his family claimed that he was not involved with any organisations.
Residents of Bhootchhara village at Kaunia upazila, Sohel's ancestral home, told bdnews24.com's Rangpur correspondent that all members of Sohel's family were actively involved with the Jamaat and it's student front Islami Chhatra Shibir.
Social science department final-year student Sohel was the eldest among his parent's five children.
'Padma bridge fundraising triggered RU clash' | Bangladesh | bdnews24.com
Padma Bridge construction
It’s 'technically' possible to reinstate loan, but little scope to 'revisit' decision : WB
FE Report
The World Bank (WB) Tuesday said it was 'technically' possible to reinstate the Padma Bridge loan but under the current circumstances there was little scope to 'revisit' the decision already taken by it.
NOTE: "under the current circumstances there was little scope to 'revisit' the decision already taken by it" meaning under this lotting Awami League regime its not possible to reconsider WB loan.
The World Bank observation was among the answers given to 'Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)' on Padma Bridge loan cancellation issue, posted on the WB, Bangladesh website on Tuesday.
"The World Bank has a few precedents in its history of reinstating a cancelled loan in other countries, so it is technically possible. However, there is little scope to revisit the decision in the current circumstances, as the Government was unable to agree to two measures deemed important in the conduct of a full and fair investigation into evidence of corruption," it said in a reply to question: Is there any scope to review the loan cancellation decision?
The WB said the cancellation will not affect on-going operations funded by it. The Bank, however, said there would be greater oversight on its part in areas where financial risks remain substantial.
This will include independent financial transaction reviews using forensic accounting techniques to uncover patterns of fraud and corruption, it said in reply to a question.
Following is the full transcript of the WB's answers to FAQs on the Padma Bridge loan cancellation issue:
Has the World Bank communicated to the Government the results of the investigations?
In accordance with our policies, we submitted two reports to the Prime Minister, the Finance Minister, and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), first in September 2011 and again in April 2012. We urged the authorities of Bangladesh to investigate these matters fully and, where justified, prosecute those responsible for corruption.
What were the findings of the referral report that the Bank has given to the Government?
Referral reports provided to Governments are meant to stimulate a robust investigation of credible evidence of corruption by appropriate national entities. The World Bank's independent Integrity Vice Presidency looks into corruption allegations to determine whether the Bank's anti-corruption guidelines have been violated and whether sufficient credible evidence exists to warrant investigation by national authorities. The World Bank itself does not conduct criminal investigations or make any determination on appropriate follow-up. This is a matter for Bangladeshi authorities to pursue in accordance with Bangladeshi laws.
Given that the World Bank has delivered reports and letters to the Government of Bangladesh, why won't the Bank make these reports available to the public?
The World Bank presented evidence of corruption under the Padma Multipurpose Bridge Project to the Government of Bangladesh in September 2011 and April 2012. The World Bank has an obligation to each member government-including the Government of Bangladesh-to maintain the confidentiality of referral reports. However, the Government of Bangladesh may disclose these reports and related correspondence if it so chooses.
What were the proposals set by the World Bank? Did the Government of Bangladesh agree to any of the measures?
The World Bank suggested that the Government adopt four measures, but the Government was unable to commit to two of the four. First, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) was asked to form a special joint investigative and prosecutorial team to work together on the investigation and follow-up. The ACC agreed with this proposal. Second, the Government accepted an alternative project implementation arrangement which gave co-financiers greater oversight over procurement processes. Third, the ACC was asked to provide information to an external panel under World Bank auspices, allowing the panel to assess the adequacy of the investigative process. Ultimately the ACC would not accept any formal relationship with the external panel to share information. Finally, the Government was unwilling to exclude public officials from public service for the duration of the investigation although Bangladeshi law permits this. Unable to reach agreement on two of the four measures during a last mission to find a way forward in June, the World Bank was left with no option other than to cancel our support for the Bridge.
Were the proposals spelled out by the World Bank in line with Bangladeshi law?
The World Bank made every effort to ensure that all requested measures were in line with the Bangladeshi legal framework.
Statements by Government officials allege that the World Bank favored a particular Chinese firm in the pre-qualification process for the bridge construction and this led to the troubled relationship between the Government and the World Bank, and ultimately to the cancellation of the project.
This is absolutely not true. The World Bank does not favor certain firms over others. In the case referred to, the Bank was reviewing a proposed list of firms to be classified as "pre-qualified" to participate in the bidding for bridge construction. For a "billion-dollar-plus" contract such as the Padma Bridge, it is particularly important to provide clear and strong justification on why each firm is qualified to bid or lacks the necessary qualifications. In this particular case, the Bridge Authority excluded the China Railway Construction Corporation from the pre-qualification list without providing adequate justification. Therefore, in accordance with our procurement guidelines, the Bank asked for complete information, which entailed several requests for clarification. As soon as all required information was provided, the Bank accepted the Government's proposed pre-qualification list and agreed with the decision of the Government to exclude the firm.
Why did the World Bank cancel the project one month prior to the effectiveness deadline for the project?
The World Bank was in discussion with the Government for nearly a year, seeking a serious commitment to address evidence of corruption under the project. Unfortunately, the Government took no such action for nearly nine months, leading many to call for the early cancellation of the loan. Given the tremendous economic and social benefits of the bridge for the people of Bangladesh, the World Bank was not willing to let it go without a struggle to save the project. The World Bank mounted an urgent mission to Dhaka to find a way forward in late June. After extensive discussions, Bangladeshi authorities were unable to agree to two of the four measures proposed. On this basis, the World Bank Management Team reluctantly took the decision to cancel the loan.
A senior Government official noted that the project was cancelled on the last day in office of the past president of the World Bank, and that the World Bank's statement was his personal statement rather than that of the institution.
All decisions by the World Bank represent the institution and not an individual. It was a unanimous decision of the World Bank Management Team, and it was motivated by a lack action on the part of Government to seriously address corruption. This was a sad outcome for the people of Bangladesh and for the World Bank, particularly given our long-standing and productive partnership dating back to the birth of the nation.
What is the interest rate of World Bank Credits to Bangladesh?
Bangladesh receives credits from the International Development Association (IDA), the World Bank's concessional arm, which is interest free. It has a 40-year repayment period which includes a 10-year grace period; it carries a service charge of 0.75 percent. Between years 11-20, the country would repay 2 percent of the original amount every year. For the remaining 20 years, the country would pay back 4 percent of the original amount every year.
Is Bangladesh being treated differently than other countries in which there are similar investigations?
No. The World Bank has an obligation to ensure that its funds reach their intended beneficiaries. The World Bank takes actions which are appropriate based on the nature of the allegations and the evidence obtained during the course of investigations.
How will the cancellation affect other ongoing World Bank operations?
The cancellation will not affect on-going operations funded by the World Bank, and we will continue to work closely with the Government and local stakeholders to support efforts to build a better life for the citizens of Bangladesh. The World Bank's current portfolio consists of over 30 projects with commitments amounting to about $4.4 billion. These projects, among others, support the development of Bangladesh's health and education systems, the improved provision of local services, the increased use of renewable energy and the economic empowerment of women. During the past fiscal year, which ended in June 2012, the World Bank approved over $860 million zero interest IDA credits, supporting among others, primary education, strengthening of local governments and improving access to and quality of water supply in rural areas. Disbursements in FY12 were about $500 million, significantly exceeding the average of the previous three years.
What will be different now in the areas where the World Bank remains engaged?
First, the World Bank will undertake greater oversight in areas where financial risks remain substantial. This will include independent financial transaction reviews using forensic accounting techniques to uncover patterns of fraud and corruption. Second, the World Bank will redouble project-specific efforts to strengthen capacity and systems for good governance. Finally-and perhaps most importantly-the doors and windows will be opened wide in Bank-financed operations, through greater access to information and increased citizen participation for better transparency and accountability for results. We have seen through operations like the Local Governance Support Project that citizens' own engagement at the local level is the best way to ensure the transparent use of resources and sustained progress towards objectives like the Millennium Development Goals.
Is there any scope to review the loan cancellation decision?
The World Bank has a few precedents in its history of reinstating a cancelled loan in other countries, so it is technically possible. However, there is little scope to revisit the decision in the current circumstances, as the Government was unable to agree to two measures deemed important in the conduct of a full and fair investigation into evidence of corruption.
This is an unfortunate outcome, as the bridge has the potential to accelerate growth and transform lives in Southwest Bangladesh and across the nation. The World Bank has been a strong partner in supporting Bangladesh in these efforts, and we remain committed to helping Bangladeshis rise out of poverty and achieve their dream of a prosperous and empowered nation, built on a foundation of good governance.
Its 'technically' possible to reinstate loan, but little scope to 'revisit' decision : WB
It’s 'technically' possible to reinstate loan, but little scope to 'revisit' decision : WB
FE Report
The World Bank (WB) Tuesday said it was 'technically' possible to reinstate the Padma Bridge loan but under the current circumstances there was little scope to 'revisit' the decision already taken by it.
NOTE: "under the current circumstances there was little scope to 'revisit' the decision already taken by it" meaning under this lotting Awami League regime its not possible to reconsider WB loan.
The World Bank observation was among the answers given to 'Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)' on Padma Bridge loan cancellation issue, posted on the WB, Bangladesh website on Tuesday.
"The World Bank has a few precedents in its history of reinstating a cancelled loan in other countries, so it is technically possible. However, there is little scope to revisit the decision in the current circumstances, as the Government was unable to agree to two measures deemed important in the conduct of a full and fair investigation into evidence of corruption," it said in a reply to question: Is there any scope to review the loan cancellation decision?
The WB said the cancellation will not affect on-going operations funded by it. The Bank, however, said there would be greater oversight on its part in areas where financial risks remain substantial.
This will include independent financial transaction reviews using forensic accounting techniques to uncover patterns of fraud and corruption, it said in reply to a question.
Following is the full transcript of the WB's answers to FAQs on the Padma Bridge loan cancellation issue:
Has the World Bank communicated to the Government the results of the investigations?
In accordance with our policies, we submitted two reports to the Prime Minister, the Finance Minister, and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), first in September 2011 and again in April 2012. We urged the authorities of Bangladesh to investigate these matters fully and, where justified, prosecute those responsible for corruption.
What were the findings of the referral report that the Bank has given to the Government?
Referral reports provided to Governments are meant to stimulate a robust investigation of credible evidence of corruption by appropriate national entities. The World Bank's independent Integrity Vice Presidency looks into corruption allegations to determine whether the Bank's anti-corruption guidelines have been violated and whether sufficient credible evidence exists to warrant investigation by national authorities. The World Bank itself does not conduct criminal investigations or make any determination on appropriate follow-up. This is a matter for Bangladeshi authorities to pursue in accordance with Bangladeshi laws.
Given that the World Bank has delivered reports and letters to the Government of Bangladesh, why won't the Bank make these reports available to the public?
The World Bank presented evidence of corruption under the Padma Multipurpose Bridge Project to the Government of Bangladesh in September 2011 and April 2012. The World Bank has an obligation to each member government-including the Government of Bangladesh-to maintain the confidentiality of referral reports. However, the Government of Bangladesh may disclose these reports and related correspondence if it so chooses.
What were the proposals set by the World Bank? Did the Government of Bangladesh agree to any of the measures?
The World Bank suggested that the Government adopt four measures, but the Government was unable to commit to two of the four. First, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) was asked to form a special joint investigative and prosecutorial team to work together on the investigation and follow-up. The ACC agreed with this proposal. Second, the Government accepted an alternative project implementation arrangement which gave co-financiers greater oversight over procurement processes. Third, the ACC was asked to provide information to an external panel under World Bank auspices, allowing the panel to assess the adequacy of the investigative process. Ultimately the ACC would not accept any formal relationship with the external panel to share information. Finally, the Government was unwilling to exclude public officials from public service for the duration of the investigation although Bangladeshi law permits this. Unable to reach agreement on two of the four measures during a last mission to find a way forward in June, the World Bank was left with no option other than to cancel our support for the Bridge.
Were the proposals spelled out by the World Bank in line with Bangladeshi law?
The World Bank made every effort to ensure that all requested measures were in line with the Bangladeshi legal framework.
Statements by Government officials allege that the World Bank favored a particular Chinese firm in the pre-qualification process for the bridge construction and this led to the troubled relationship between the Government and the World Bank, and ultimately to the cancellation of the project.
This is absolutely not true. The World Bank does not favor certain firms over others. In the case referred to, the Bank was reviewing a proposed list of firms to be classified as "pre-qualified" to participate in the bidding for bridge construction. For a "billion-dollar-plus" contract such as the Padma Bridge, it is particularly important to provide clear and strong justification on why each firm is qualified to bid or lacks the necessary qualifications. In this particular case, the Bridge Authority excluded the China Railway Construction Corporation from the pre-qualification list without providing adequate justification. Therefore, in accordance with our procurement guidelines, the Bank asked for complete information, which entailed several requests for clarification. As soon as all required information was provided, the Bank accepted the Government's proposed pre-qualification list and agreed with the decision of the Government to exclude the firm.
Why did the World Bank cancel the project one month prior to the effectiveness deadline for the project?
The World Bank was in discussion with the Government for nearly a year, seeking a serious commitment to address evidence of corruption under the project. Unfortunately, the Government took no such action for nearly nine months, leading many to call for the early cancellation of the loan. Given the tremendous economic and social benefits of the bridge for the people of Bangladesh, the World Bank was not willing to let it go without a struggle to save the project. The World Bank mounted an urgent mission to Dhaka to find a way forward in late June. After extensive discussions, Bangladeshi authorities were unable to agree to two of the four measures proposed. On this basis, the World Bank Management Team reluctantly took the decision to cancel the loan.
A senior Government official noted that the project was cancelled on the last day in office of the past president of the World Bank, and that the World Bank's statement was his personal statement rather than that of the institution.
All decisions by the World Bank represent the institution and not an individual. It was a unanimous decision of the World Bank Management Team, and it was motivated by a lack action on the part of Government to seriously address corruption. This was a sad outcome for the people of Bangladesh and for the World Bank, particularly given our long-standing and productive partnership dating back to the birth of the nation.
What is the interest rate of World Bank Credits to Bangladesh?
Bangladesh receives credits from the International Development Association (IDA), the World Bank's concessional arm, which is interest free. It has a 40-year repayment period which includes a 10-year grace period; it carries a service charge of 0.75 percent. Between years 11-20, the country would repay 2 percent of the original amount every year. For the remaining 20 years, the country would pay back 4 percent of the original amount every year.
Is Bangladesh being treated differently than other countries in which there are similar investigations?
No. The World Bank has an obligation to ensure that its funds reach their intended beneficiaries. The World Bank takes actions which are appropriate based on the nature of the allegations and the evidence obtained during the course of investigations.
How will the cancellation affect other ongoing World Bank operations?
The cancellation will not affect on-going operations funded by the World Bank, and we will continue to work closely with the Government and local stakeholders to support efforts to build a better life for the citizens of Bangladesh. The World Bank's current portfolio consists of over 30 projects with commitments amounting to about $4.4 billion. These projects, among others, support the development of Bangladesh's health and education systems, the improved provision of local services, the increased use of renewable energy and the economic empowerment of women. During the past fiscal year, which ended in June 2012, the World Bank approved over $860 million zero interest IDA credits, supporting among others, primary education, strengthening of local governments and improving access to and quality of water supply in rural areas. Disbursements in FY12 were about $500 million, significantly exceeding the average of the previous three years.
What will be different now in the areas where the World Bank remains engaged?
First, the World Bank will undertake greater oversight in areas where financial risks remain substantial. This will include independent financial transaction reviews using forensic accounting techniques to uncover patterns of fraud and corruption. Second, the World Bank will redouble project-specific efforts to strengthen capacity and systems for good governance. Finally-and perhaps most importantly-the doors and windows will be opened wide in Bank-financed operations, through greater access to information and increased citizen participation for better transparency and accountability for results. We have seen through operations like the Local Governance Support Project that citizens' own engagement at the local level is the best way to ensure the transparent use of resources and sustained progress towards objectives like the Millennium Development Goals.
Is there any scope to review the loan cancellation decision?
The World Bank has a few precedents in its history of reinstating a cancelled loan in other countries, so it is technically possible. However, there is little scope to revisit the decision in the current circumstances, as the Government was unable to agree to two measures deemed important in the conduct of a full and fair investigation into evidence of corruption.
This is an unfortunate outcome, as the bridge has the potential to accelerate growth and transform lives in Southwest Bangladesh and across the nation. The World Bank has been a strong partner in supporting Bangladesh in these efforts, and we remain committed to helping Bangladeshis rise out of poverty and achieve their dream of a prosperous and empowered nation, built on a foundation of good governance.
Its 'technically' possible to reinstate loan, but little scope to 'revisit' decision : WB
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