Former President of the Bangladesh Association of Travel Agents (ATAB), Abdus Salam Aref, former General Secretary Afsia Jannat Saleh, and former Finance Secretary Lion Shafiqullah Nantu (term 2023-2025) have responded to a letter regarding financial irregularities sent by ATAB's former administrator, Mr. Motakabbir Ahmed.

The statement mentions that on August 4, 2025, the government appointed Mr. Motakabbir Ahmed as the administrator of ATAB and relieved him of the position on October 22, 2025. During his 78 days in office, he completely failed to fulfill the main responsibility of conducting ATAB elections. He did not take initiatives to form the Election Board and Appeal Board, which is contrary to the directives of the Honorable High Court Division.

They further stated that the elected committee (2023–2025) actively opposed ticket syndicates and high prices in the interest of ATAB members and public welfare. However, after Mr. Motakabbir Ahmed took office, the ticket syndicate circle became active and held several meetings with him. Subsequently, the prices of international (Middle Eastern) tickets increased abnormally—from 40,000 Taka to over 100,000 Taka at one point.

The statement also mentions that he did not take any effective measures to prevent ticket syndicates and online travel agency fraud. Even after the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism sent him a letter on October 15, he ignored it. He did not take a responsible role in solving ATAB members' problems and did not call any general meetings.

Additionally, on the day of his removal, Motakabbir Ahmed hastily issued a letter filled with false and distorted information. By circulating the letter in various media and on WhatsApp, he attempted to disgrace the newly former elected committee of ATAB. Issuing such a letter without legal authority is condemnable.

They further stated that the administrator's claims regarding financial transactions are completely false. Rather, during a courtesy meeting on September 24, 2025, ATAB's bank account, income-expenditure records, and procedures were thoroughly explained to him. About 15 members, including ATAB's executive secretary and accountant, were present during the discussion.

The former administrator took ATAB's bank account information and details via WhatsApp, raising concerns about information leakage.

The statement also mentions that the administrator claimed there were 3,405,796 Taka in ATAB's fund, which is incorrect. According to the information published on ATAB's website, there is a balance of 20,873,774 Taka (publication date 28/10/2025).

They stated, "Despite having over two crore Taka in ATAB's bank account, not refunding the Thailand FAM trip money is an unreasonable, harassing, and maliciously motivated decision."

They noted that ATAB has about 40-50 income and expenditure categories, managed in a single bank account. Even though there are no separate accounts for each category, all income and expenditure are completed transparently with the approval of the elected committee.

Finally, they mentioned, "All records of ATAB's financial activities are preserved in the office, open for review, and Article 53/A of ATAB's constitution does not apply here."