Sonali Bank launches whistleblower office

Officials and employees of Sonali Bank can now file complaints against top management officials involved in internal corruption.

In this regard, Sonali Bank Chairman Ziaul Hasan Siddiqui on Sunday inaugurated the activities of the bank's whistleblower's office.

AKM Kamrul Islam, a member of the bank's board of directors and chairman of the audit committee, has been appointed the ombudsman. He will be assisted by the bank's chief audit officer and two general manager-level officers.

Ziaul Hasan Siddiqui told The Business Standard that in the case of internal corruption, lower-ranking officials are often afraid to provide information on higher-level officials.

"From now on, they will be able to complain to the ombudsman against any irregularities committed by any official. To encourage junior officials to overcome their fear, the name of the complainant will be kept secret. Subordinates can complain to the ombudsman even against the managing director of the bank," he said.

"With the introduction of the ombudsman system, women employees of Sonali Bank will be more secure than before, the chairman said, adding that if they face any problem, they can complain to the ombudsman.

He said female workers should report to the ombudsman without any hesitation if they are harassed by male workers.

On 16 March, Sonali Bank sent a letter to all its branches across the country, instructing its employees to avoid any immoral relations.

Chairman Ziaul Hasan said the allegations submitted to the ombudsman will be investigated, and if proven, the ombudsman will recommend departmental punishment. The administration will then take appropriate action against the accused.

Claiming that this ombudsman system is a big milestone in establishing good governance in the bank, Ziaul Hasan mentioned that this arrangement is applicable only to the Sonali Bank employees.

"We have a separate complaint cell for any customer or individual to file complaint against any official," he said.