The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) on Tuesday reinstated an officer dismissed four and a half years ago after investigating alleged corruption in government projects and recommending legal action against influential individuals.
Md Sharif Uddin, a deputy assistant director, returned to the commission following a prolonged legal battle that ended with a court ruling in his favour.
Sharif was investigating irregularities in land acquisition for government projects while posted in Chattogram during the Awami League government.
He recommended filing cases against influential individuals and subsequently received death threats, prompting him to file a general diary with the police.
Instead of receiving recognition for his investigations, Sharif was transferred to Patuakhali on June 16, 2021, while the inquiries were still underway.
He was dismissed on February 16, 2022, under Rule 54(2) of the Anti-Corruption Commission (Employees) Rules, 2008.
The dismissal sparked widespread criticism over the commission's treatment of an officer investigating politically influential figures.
ACC Public Relations Officer Akhtar Hossain confirmed Sharif's return to Daily Waadaa.
"He has joined following the court's order. A commission meeting will be held to restore his employment with all benefits," Akhtar said.
The reinstatement order restores Sharif's previous seniority and entitles him to outstanding salaries, allowances and other benefits.
Sharif challenged his dismissal before the High Court on March 13, 2022, questioning both the removal order and the legality of Rule 54(2).
On July 9, 2025, the High Court declared his dismissal unlawful and void from the outset.
It ordered the ACC to reinstate him with full seniority and outstanding benefits within 30 days of receiving the judgment.
The commission, however, challenged the ruling by filing a petition seeking leave to appeal.
On October 15 this year, the ACC's lawyer informed the appellate court that the commission had decided not to pursue the petition.
The legal proceedings concluded on October 29 when the Appellate Division's chamber court allowed the ACC to withdraw its appeal.
Senior lawyer Salah Uddin Dolon, who represented Sharif, confirmed the development.
Following the court proceedings, Sharif applied for reinstatement on October 25.
The commission reviewed his application and the court ruling at its 13/2026 meeting on November 5.
It subsequently withdrew the original dismissal order and approved his reinstatement.
An official order issued by ACC headquarters states that Sharif will regain his previous seniority and receive all outstanding employment benefits under the applicable rules.
The decision took effect from the date of the order.
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