Dhaka: The government has announced plans to introduce e-filing across all its offices with the aim of streamlining administrative tasks and reducing corruption. This decision emerged during a high-level meeting on the country’s economy held at the Chief Adviser’s Office, presided over by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the meeting was attended by key figures including Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed, Industries Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan, Planning and Education Adviser Wahiduddin Mahmud, Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin, Food Adviser Ali Imam Majumder, and other notable officials. During a media briefing at the Foreign Service Academy, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam highlighted that many government offices currently lack an e-filing system, leading to delays in the decision-making process.
Alam further stated that the Chief Adviser has directed all relevant parties to expedite the implementation of e-filing in government offices. Drawing parallels with other nations, he noted that e-filing significantly reduces corruption. The European Union has shared insights on how Estonia successfully curbed corruption through e-filing and is willing to assist Bangladesh by sharing Estonia’s experiences.
In response to questions, Alam explained that the introduction of e-filing would facilitate the monitoring and tracking of government files. He also mentioned that the meeting addressed the evaluation of the country’s mega projects by third-party entities. It was observed that development projects over the past 15 years were overvalued by approximately 70 percent due to political influence, resulting in the misuse of public funds amounting to an estimated US$ 14 to 24 billion.
The discussion further delved into the reevaluation of these mega projects by third parties and strategies to boost the country’s economy. Chief Adviser’s Senior Assistant Press Secretary Foyez Ahammad and Assistant Press Secretary Suchismita Tithi were also present at the meeting.