The saga of Matiur Rahman, a former high-ranking member of the National Board of Revenue (NBR) in Bangladesh, reads like a drama of power, influence, and controversy. For years, Rahman wielded such considerable clout that his transfer within the NBR seemed virtually impossible unless he desired it. His story illuminates the interplay of connections and authority within the governmental tax authority and raises questions about the ethical standards and transparency within such institutions.
Matiur Rahman’s career trajectory within the NBR is marked by his strategic postings at some of the most coveted positions in the tax authority. He served at Chattogram Customs, Benapole Customs, the Large Taxpayer Unit (LTU), and the Customs VAT Commissionerates in Dhaka and Chattogram. These positions are widely regarded as “lucrative” due to the significant influence and access to substantial revenue they entail. His ability to secure and retain these postings was not merely a matter of professional competence but was significantly bolstered by his extensive network of high-profile connections.
Several high-ranking officials within the NBR have anonymously disclosed that Rahman’s influence stemmed from his friendships with individuals in powerful positions. It is reported that he frequently entertained these influential friends at resorts owned by him or his family, thereby cementing his status and ensuring their support. This network of connections was instrumental in having at least two transfer orders canceled, showcasing his formidable ability to maneuver within the bureaucratic framework.
Rahman’s unassailable position began to unravel when a photo posted by his son on social media went viral. The photo depicted a sacrificial goat worth Tk 12 lakh, sparking public outrage and scrutiny over the sources of Rahman’s wealth. The opulence displayed in the photo raised questions about how a public servant could afford such luxuries, prompting several mainstream media outlets to investigate further. Reports soon emerged detailing the vast wealth and extravagant lifestyle of Rahman and his family.
These revelations led to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) launching an inquiry into Rahman’s wealth. Despite having at least four complaints filed against him over the years, the ACC had not initiated any probes until this incident brought widespread attention. The public outcry and media scrutiny finally compelled the ACC to take action.
Rahman’s influence was so entrenched that even top officials struggled to transfer him. This was starkly evident in the experiences of two NBR chairmen. During the caretaker government rule in 2007, then NBR chairman Badiur Rahman attempted to transfer Matiur Rahman from Chattogram Customs House to the VAT Commissionerate in Rajshahi. Badiur recounted on a recent TV talk show how Matiur visited his office and home in an attempt to reverse the transfer order. Despite these efforts, Badiur did not relent. However, the intervention from higher-ups, including then army chief Moeen U Ahmed, ensured that Badiur was transferred instead, and Matiur was back at Chattogram Customs House within a month.
A similar scenario unfolded in July 2022 when NBR Chairman and Senior Secretary of the Internal Resources Department Abu Hena Md Rahmatul Muneem ordered Matiur’s transfer to the Rajshahi VAT Commissionerate. Again, Matiur did not comply, and within 15 days, the order was canceled. This incident further illustrated the extent of Matiur’s connections and his ability to override official directives.
The tide began to turn against Matiur Rahman recently. The government removed him from his position as a director of Sonali Bank, a role he had secured without the NBR chairman’s consent or clearance from the tax authority. Following an appeal from the ACC, the Metropolitan Senior Special Judge’s Court of Dhaka issued a travel ban on Rahman and two of his family members, marking a significant shift in his fortunes.
This unraveling of Matiur’s influence marks a critical point in the efforts to address corruption and abuse of power within the NBR. The long-standing ability of an individual to manipulate the system for personal gain highlights the need for stringent oversight and reforms. It serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in public service.
Matiur Rahman’s story is a testament to the enduring power of connections and influence in governmental institutions. His ability to evade transfers and secure lucrative postings underscores the challenges faced in ensuring ethical governance. The recent actions by the ACC and the government signal a potential shift towards greater accountability. However, the extent of Rahman’s influence and the delay in addressing the allegations against him suggest that much work remains to be done in reforming the system. As the inquiry into his wealth progresses, it will be crucial to maintain public scrutiny and ensure that justice is served, setting a precedent for tackling corruption within the NBR and beyond.
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