Questions have been raised over the promotion process at state-owned Rupali Bank PLC after documents surfaced showing that an official facing allegations of abuse of power and political influence was included in the interview process for promotion to the post of Deputy General Manager (IT).

According to an office order issued by Rupali Bank’s Administration and Human Resources Division on March 3, 2026, an interview board was formed to select candidates for promotion from Assistant General Manager (IT) to Deputy General Manager (IT).

The office order, bearing memorandum no. Proka/Ppro/DGM(IT)/2026/144, lists several candidates scheduled to appear before the interview board. Md Abu Hanif,currently serving at the Foreign Trade Corporate Branch, appears as the second candidate on the list.

Questions have emerged over the inclusion of Hanif in the promotion process amid allegations that he had previously used political connections and official influence to advance his position within the bank.

Documents and photographs circulating on social media reportedly show Hanif participating in various political and party programmes during the previous government’s tenure. Some of the materials also allegedly show his presence at programmes involving senior political leaders and his proximity to senior officials of the bank’s board.

However, the allegations have not, to date, resulted in any publicly known departmental investigation or disciplinary action against him, according to available information.

The promotion interview was reportedly held at the bank’s head office boardroom on March 3. His inclusion in the process has prompted questions about whether his service record, integrity and past activities were adequately scruti.