The U.S. Department of State announced today the public designation of former General Aziz Ahmed, previously Chief of the Bangladesh Army Staff, due to his involvement in significant corruption.  His actions have contributed to the undermining of Bangladesh’s democratic institutions and the public’s faith in public institutions and processes, said a Press Statement of the U.S. Department of State on monday.

It said Aziz Ahmed engaged in significant corruption by interfering in public processes while helping his brother evade accountability for criminal activity in Bangladesh.  Aziz also worked closely with his brother to ensure the improper awarding of military contracts and accepted bribes in exchange for government appointments for his personal benefit.

This designation reaffirms the U.S. commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and rule of law in Bangladesh.  The United States supports anticorruption efforts in Bangladesh through assistance to make government services more transparent and affordable, improve the business and regulatory environment, and build capacity in investigating and prosecuting money laundering and other financial crimes. 

These public designations are made under Section 7031(c) of the annual Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act.  This action renders Aziz and his immediate family members generally ineligible for entry into the United States.