A storm of controversy is sweeping across the country over the distribution of a social welfare microcredit fund exceeding Tk 700 crore, funded by public money. Allegations have surfaced that the Ministry of Social Welfare has initiated the process of handing over this massive fund directly to the Grameen Trust, founded by Dr. Muhammad Yunus, without any competitive process.
The allocation is reportedly being carried out under the Single Source Selection (SSS) method — a process that designates a single institution while excluding all other eligible candidates.
The burning question now is: How can a state fund, created from taxpayers’ money, be handed over to a private and controversial institution without any competition? Even more concerning are reports suggesting that the decision is being driven by influence from the highest levels of government.
It is being alleged that Grameen Trust is set to receive this allocation with the direct or indirect support of the head of government, raising serious ethical and legal concerns.
Experts argue that not only does this process violate the principles of transparency and accountability, but it also undermines the very foundation of fair policymaking in the country. They warn that this fund — intended for public welfare — must not become a tool for serving the interests of any individual or group.
Unless the government reverses this controversial decision, it could deliver a severe blow to the ideals of social justice and public trust. Now is the time to halt this process and opt for an open, competitive selection of qualified institutions — in the interest of the nation.
