Controversial CSR Allocations During Mansur’s Tenure

Since its establishment on 18 January 1972, Bangladesh Bank has been led by twelve governors up to 25 February 2026. Among them, Dr. Ahsan H. Mansur holds the distinction of serving the shortest tenure—just 1 year, 6 months, and 17 days. Despite the brief period in office, his tenure became one of the most debated in the central bank’s history due to several controversial decisions regarding the management of the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds.

The government removed Dr. Mansur from office nearly two and a half years before the completion of his term. Multiple senior officials within Bangladesh Bank reportedly questioned his decisions on CSR fund allocations, raising concerns over transparency and governance. Traditionally, CSR funds have been used for education, healthcare, and social development projects. Common initiatives include establishing computer laboratories in private and MPO-registered schools and supporting various community development programmes.

However, during Mansur’s governorship, allegations surfaced that certain CSR allocations benefitted institutions with which he had personal or professional associations. According to internal records, Khalil-Malik Foundation in Chuadanga, established by a close associate of the governor, received BDT 29.7 million. The foundation, which aims to support cancer and kidney patients, allegedly did not undergo adequate capability assessments before the funds were disbursed. Officials suggest that pressure was applied at departmental levels to expedite the approval.

Additionally, BDT 2.5 million was allocated from CSR funds for a computer laboratory at Chuadanga High School, with the governor personally attending the inauguration alongside his spouse. Officials noted that direct involvement of a governor in CSR projects is extremely rare, making this allocation a matter of internal discussion.

Controversy also arose over a BDT 2.5 million allocation to Martha Lindstrom Nurjahan Begum Girls’ High School in Kartia, Tangail. Dr. Mansur reportedly served as the chairman of the school’s management committee at the time. The school is located adjacent to Mansur-owned Water Garden Resort and Spa Centre, which had previously been subject to safety concerns for students. In August 2022, a district investigation committee ordered the removal of a resort gate within 15 days. The subsequent CSR allocation to the school raised questions about conflict of interest and propriety.

Even the allocation of CSR funds to Nilphamari Government High School, a public institution, was viewed as exceptional, allegedly influenced by Mansur’s personal connections as his childhood school. Other governors have not faced allegations of favouring institutions with personal ties.

Bangladesh Bank Governors and Tenures

Experts stress that transparency and accountability in CSR fund management are critical in a central bank. Any perceived conflict of interest, particularly involving governors, can undermine public trust and institutional integrity. Mansur’s tenure has thus become a reference point for discussions on governance and ethical standards in the allocation of CSR resources.