Bangladesh Bank Governor Ahsan H Mansur on Tuesday assured the public that depositors’ money will be safeguarded during upcoming bank mergers, with the government set to take over weak banks beforehand to ensure a smooth transition into stronger institutions.
Speaking at a press conference at BB headquarters during the release of the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU) annual report, Mansur emphasized that depositors “have no reason to worry.” He noted that funds will be raised for a dedicated bank resolution fund before any mergers proceed.
Addressing concerns over business disruptions, Mansur clarified that the central bank has not frozen any business accounts and has created no obstacles to regular operations. Only personal accounts have been affected in specific investigations.
On the issue of money laundering under the previous Awami League government, the governor revealed that $18–20 billion had been illegally transferred abroad. He acknowledged Bangladesh’s inexperience in asset recovery but said the government is initiating an inter-ministerial task force, planning legal reforms, and enhancing task force authority to bring back the funds over the next three to five years.
