Saifuzzaman Chowdhury, a minister in Sheikh Hasina’s government, has been implicated in wealth-related allegations after it was revealed he owns over 490 properties globally, despite a salary of Rs 11 lakh. Following massive protests in 2024, the Bangladesh central bank has blocked his bank accounts, and an anti-corruption inquiry is underway regarding his financial dealings, particularly allegations of money laundering.
Saifuzzaman Chowdhury, a minister within Sheikh Hasina’s government in Bangladesh, has come under scrutiny from the interim administration led by Mohammad Yunus due to his substantial wealth. Despite earning a salary of Rs 11 lakh, he reportedly possesses over 490 properties worldwide, with an overwhelming 300 located in the United Kingdom alone. Investigative reports have brought these details to light, raising concerns over his accumulation of wealth.
Prior to his departure from the country amid widespread protests in 2024, Chowdhury had declared his assets to be valued at Rs 20 crore in his income tax return. His father, Akhtaruzzaman, was a close aide to Sheikh Hasina and a co-founder of the United Commercial Bank, where he is implicated in the murder of its founding chairman. Notably, from 1992 to 2024, his family amassed properties worth over USD 295 million across major global cities.
Chowdhury’s net worth saw significant growth beginning in 2019 when he served as the land minister. His portfolio includes prestigious locations such as Burj Khalifa in Dubai and various properties in London’s commuter towns, Singapore, and Malaysia. Such investments have drawn attention from authorities and media alike.
Following these revelations, the Bangladesh central bank has frozen the bank accounts belonging to Chowdhury and his family. Furthermore, the Anti-Corruption Commission of Bangladesh has launched an investigation into allegations of his improper acquisition of vast amounts of money, potentially amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars, alongside accusations of laundering funds in the United Kingdom.
In summary, Saifuzzaman Chowdhury, a minister in Sheikh Hasina’s government, is facing serious allegations regarding his extensive property holdings and wealth. Despite a modest salary, his ownership of nearly 500 properties globally raises questions about the legality of his wealth, prompting governmental investigations. These developments signify the ongoing scrutiny of political figures in Bangladesh amidst turbulent political conditions.
Original Source: www.india.com
