The New Nation - Internet Edition

Staff Reporter

The UK (DFID), Norway and Sweden have cancelled funding to Samata because of misuse and misappropriation of donor funds, and they have informed the NGO Affairs Bureau of their decision.

The donor partners recognise and appreciate the achievements made by Samata and its workers over the years in terms of reclaiming land for the landless and contributing to poverty alleviation.

Nevertheless, the UK (DFID), Norway and Sweden have a zero tolerance policy for misappropriation of funds and corruption, and the findings of the independent forensic audit leave us with no choice but to terminate our agreements, invoking the relevant clauses, and stop funding of Samata with immediate effect.

UK, Norway and Sweden will continue to provide substantive aid to Bangladesh, including for poor and vulnerable landless people.