Courtesy: New Age, Dhaka
Dec. 13, 2008
This report has been prepared based on the New Age, Dhaka report- ‘Candidates in electoral race’.
After the withdrawal of candidate which closed on Thursday, a total of 1,572 candidates remain in the race for the December 29 general elections.
CHT constituencies
Khagrachari: Arun Shanti Chakma (NAP), Ujjwal Smriti Chakma (Ind), Zahed Ahmed (BSD), Progyabir Chakma (PDP), Pradip Kumar Mutsuddi (ZP), Md Zahedul Alam (Ind), Md Daudul Islam Bhuiyan (Ind), Jyotindra Lal Tripura (AL), Samiran Dewan (BNP);
Rangamati: Alo Rani Aich (BDB), Ushatan Talukder (Ind), Jamir Uddin Kabir (Ind), Dipankar Talukder (AL), Maitri Chakma (BNP);
Bandarban: KS Maung (Ind), Chhotan Kanti Tanchaingya (Ind), Bir Bahadur (AL), Saching Pru Jerry (BNP).
Abbreviations: AL– Awami League; BNP– Bangladesh Nationalist Party; PDP– Progressive Democratic Party; BSD– Bangladesh Samajtantrik Dal; JP– Jatiya Party; Ind.- Independent.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Friday, December 12, 2008
Awami League manifesto commits for CHT Peace Accord and minorities
A TV photo while she was reading out the manifesto
Awami League Chairperson Seikh Hasina declared Awami League’s 2008 election manifesto in the morning (Dec. 12, 2008). On the minority, indigenous peoples and the CHT peace accord the manifesto commits-
Steps would be taken up to eliminate all discriminatory treatments for good towards religious minorities, smaller minorities and indigenous peoples. Laws which discriminate them shall be annulled. Necessary arrangements would be taken up to ensure land rights over their lands.
The CHT Peace Accord shall be implemented completely.
We warmly welcome the matured decision of Mr. Mani Swapan Dewan
Mr. Mani Swapan Dewan, former Deputy Minister of the Ministry of CHT Affairs and a LDP leader withdrew his nomination paper yesterday at Rangamati. The main reason of the withdrawal, so far we’ve gathered, was Awami League’s refusal to award any seat to the LDP. As a result, the LDP also withdrew its support from the Grand Alliance, yesterday.
This is a fact that the LDP has no any base in Rangamati Hill District. Of course, as an individual he has been able to win some support from remote Upazilas, for his role in the area of development, during his tenure. More over, his friendly treatment in rural terms has been one of the reasons to reach to village people. In 2001 election JSS was the fulcrum to make him MP and finally the Deputy Minister of the MoCHTA.
Mr. Dewan's withdrawal will help a good election fight in favour of a strong candidate which will help lead to the CHT Peace Accord implementation process.
WE warmly welcome the withdrawal of nomination paper of Mr. Mani Swapan Dewan. This pragmatic decision would definitely receive warm reception from different corners of the society. This move would also be a dividend for his fight after next five years. Now we urge him support such a candidate (he may be a political rival) which will ultimately help establish non-communal rule in the country, to support such a candidate which will ultimately go in favour of the quarter that will implement the CHT Peace Accord.
This is a fact that the LDP has no any base in Rangamati Hill District. Of course, as an individual he has been able to win some support from remote Upazilas, for his role in the area of development, during his tenure. More over, his friendly treatment in rural terms has been one of the reasons to reach to village people. In 2001 election JSS was the fulcrum to make him MP and finally the Deputy Minister of the MoCHTA.
Mr. Dewan's withdrawal will help a good election fight in favour of a strong candidate which will help lead to the CHT Peace Accord implementation process.
WE warmly welcome the withdrawal of nomination paper of Mr. Mani Swapan Dewan. This pragmatic decision would definitely receive warm reception from different corners of the society. This move would also be a dividend for his fight after next five years. Now we urge him support such a candidate (he may be a political rival) which will ultimately help establish non-communal rule in the country, to support such a candidate which will ultimately go in favour of the quarter that will implement the CHT Peace Accord.
UP chairman abducted
UP chairman abducted
Our Correspondent, Rangamati
Courtesy: The Daily Star, Dhaka
Dec. 12, 2008
The joint forces could not trace abducted Union Parishad Chairman Sachittra Chakma as of yesterday, three days after his abduction.
A gang of armed criminals kidnapped Sachittra, also a member of district Awami League, from his house at Khedermara in Baghaichhari upazila on Monday midnight and took him to deep forest, police sources said.
Our Correspondent, Rangamati
Courtesy: The Daily Star, Dhaka
Dec. 12, 2008
The joint forces could not trace abducted Union Parishad Chairman Sachittra Chakma as of yesterday, three days after his abduction.
A gang of armed criminals kidnapped Sachittra, also a member of district Awami League, from his house at Khedermara in Baghaichhari upazila on Monday midnight and took him to deep forest, police sources said.
Two-nation theory has bred practice of hatred
Byline
Two-nation theory has bred practice of hatred
M. J. Akbar
Courtesy: The Daily Star, Dhaka
Dec. 12, 2008
WHY has Pakistan become synonymous with terrorism? The vast majority of Pakistanis surely find terrorism as repellent as Indians do. Why then does Pakistan breed an endless flow of suicide missionaries?
Practice has been shaped by theory. A theory of separation created Pakistan in 1947; over time, this has been converted into a culture of hatred by some self-appointed ideologues.
Pakistan emerged out of the notion that Hindus and Muslims could not live together. The threat perception was raised into the claim that Islam itself would be obliterated in a Hindu-majority India. The Muslim League's slogan was: “Islam in Danger!”
Neither history nor theology could have sustained such a slogan, but Muslim elites in British India manipulated the incipient ideology of the Muslim League, and fuelled it with incendiary sentiment in order to create a state where they could protect their vested interests. They were not really afraid of “Hindu Raj;” they were terrified of land reform and socialism that the Congress would enforce. It is no accident that there has been no serious land reform in Pakistan. Gandhi's honest faith in Hinduism was maliciously exploited to spread the perfidy that India would never offer an equal place to Muslims.
The idea of Islam being in danger was particularly attractive to a section of the ulemabut not to all of them; the Jamaat-e-Ulema-e-Hind, unlike the Jamaat-e-Islami, was very clear-headed about the potential pitfalls and opposed the creation of Pakistan. The pro-partition ulema, however, discovered a unique opportunity for power. If Islam was going be the raison d'etre of the new nation, then who else could be its true guardians? The elites took control of the economy and politics; the upper middle classes dominated the administration; and the two shared authority in the armed forces. The clergy gradually took control of educational and legal space.
What united these elements, who had separate agendas and could be culturally antagonistic, was Kashmir. The first important decision taken after Pakistan's birth was to convert the two-nation theory into a cornerstone of Pakistan's foreign policy.
Pakistan created the Kashmir problem when it decided to seize the Valley by armed force in the last week of October 1947. If this incursion had not taken place, there would have been a peaceful resolution to both Kashmir and Hyderabad, with Lord Mountbatten as referee. Perhaps, apart from his sense of self-importance, this was why Mountbatten wanted to be named governor-general of both India and Pakistan, but Jinnah told him to stick to Delhi.
India, Pakistan and Britain were in full agreement that no princely state should be permitted independence. The two holdouts, Kashmir and Hyderabad, could never have survived in their frozen condition. Mountbatten has left on record a note from Nehru in which he suggested that the resolution of Kashmir could be left to spring 1948.
Instead, Jinnah, Liaquat Ali Khan and Pakistan's freshly emboldened leaders were convinced they could pray at the main mosque in Srinagar on the Friday following the invasion. They failed. The failure sponsored a lie, that the invasion was a “popular uprising.” Shuja Nawaz has exposed this falsehood effectively in his history of the Pakistan army, Crossed Swords (Oxford University Press). The October 1947 invasion was armed and supported by the Pakistani administration.
Six decades of Fridays later, the rulers of Islamabad are still waiting. If they want to enter Srinagar on tanks they are welcome to wait another six decades. If they want to come to Srinagar in peace, they can come and pray tomorrow. But it will be difficult for them to do so as long as they believe that Hindus and Muslims cannot live together. The two-nation theory might have been abandoned in 1971, when Pakistan itself was partitioned. But it remains the official doctrine of the Pakistan state, sold to generations in millions of school textbooks.
Pakistan's support for Sikh secessionism in the 1980s was clear evidence that it did not need only a “Muslim” cause to become pro-active. If it could destroy India's integrity through another religious module, it was equally happy to do so. If General Zia ul Haq had spent as much energy on the construction of Pakistan as he did on the destruction of India, Pakistan might have had a rising economic story to tell by now.
Kashmir became the implicit sanction for the emergence, under Zia's beneficial watch, of terrorist groups like the Lashkar-e-Taiba (the Army of the Pure). Zia's successors did little to contain these terrorists. When India protested, Pakistani diplomats were polite across the table, and probably had a good laugh behind Delhi's back. Since Zia's time Pakistan has been asking for “evidence” or proof, and encouraging scepticism or conspiracy theories (dutifully lapped up by sections of the Indian media).
Well, this time there is a canary singing in custody, and a satellite phone abandoned by terrorists with five logged calls to members of the Lashkar. It is the declared intention of the Pure Army to fly the Pakistani flag on top of the Red Fort. Its leader, Hafiz Muhammad Saeed, certainly gets a wink if not a nod from the Pak establishment.
M.J. Akbar is Chief Editor of the Asian Age.
Two-nation theory has bred practice of hatred
M. J. Akbar
Courtesy: The Daily Star, Dhaka
Dec. 12, 2008
WHY has Pakistan become synonymous with terrorism? The vast majority of Pakistanis surely find terrorism as repellent as Indians do. Why then does Pakistan breed an endless flow of suicide missionaries?
Practice has been shaped by theory. A theory of separation created Pakistan in 1947; over time, this has been converted into a culture of hatred by some self-appointed ideologues.
Pakistan emerged out of the notion that Hindus and Muslims could not live together. The threat perception was raised into the claim that Islam itself would be obliterated in a Hindu-majority India. The Muslim League's slogan was: “Islam in Danger!”
Neither history nor theology could have sustained such a slogan, but Muslim elites in British India manipulated the incipient ideology of the Muslim League, and fuelled it with incendiary sentiment in order to create a state where they could protect their vested interests. They were not really afraid of “Hindu Raj;” they were terrified of land reform and socialism that the Congress would enforce. It is no accident that there has been no serious land reform in Pakistan. Gandhi's honest faith in Hinduism was maliciously exploited to spread the perfidy that India would never offer an equal place to Muslims.
The idea of Islam being in danger was particularly attractive to a section of the ulemabut not to all of them; the Jamaat-e-Ulema-e-Hind, unlike the Jamaat-e-Islami, was very clear-headed about the potential pitfalls and opposed the creation of Pakistan. The pro-partition ulema, however, discovered a unique opportunity for power. If Islam was going be the raison d'etre of the new nation, then who else could be its true guardians? The elites took control of the economy and politics; the upper middle classes dominated the administration; and the two shared authority in the armed forces. The clergy gradually took control of educational and legal space.
What united these elements, who had separate agendas and could be culturally antagonistic, was Kashmir. The first important decision taken after Pakistan's birth was to convert the two-nation theory into a cornerstone of Pakistan's foreign policy.
Pakistan created the Kashmir problem when it decided to seize the Valley by armed force in the last week of October 1947. If this incursion had not taken place, there would have been a peaceful resolution to both Kashmir and Hyderabad, with Lord Mountbatten as referee. Perhaps, apart from his sense of self-importance, this was why Mountbatten wanted to be named governor-general of both India and Pakistan, but Jinnah told him to stick to Delhi.
India, Pakistan and Britain were in full agreement that no princely state should be permitted independence. The two holdouts, Kashmir and Hyderabad, could never have survived in their frozen condition. Mountbatten has left on record a note from Nehru in which he suggested that the resolution of Kashmir could be left to spring 1948.
Instead, Jinnah, Liaquat Ali Khan and Pakistan's freshly emboldened leaders were convinced they could pray at the main mosque in Srinagar on the Friday following the invasion. They failed. The failure sponsored a lie, that the invasion was a “popular uprising.” Shuja Nawaz has exposed this falsehood effectively in his history of the Pakistan army, Crossed Swords (Oxford University Press). The October 1947 invasion was armed and supported by the Pakistani administration.
Six decades of Fridays later, the rulers of Islamabad are still waiting. If they want to enter Srinagar on tanks they are welcome to wait another six decades. If they want to come to Srinagar in peace, they can come and pray tomorrow. But it will be difficult for them to do so as long as they believe that Hindus and Muslims cannot live together. The two-nation theory might have been abandoned in 1971, when Pakistan itself was partitioned. But it remains the official doctrine of the Pakistan state, sold to generations in millions of school textbooks.
Pakistan's support for Sikh secessionism in the 1980s was clear evidence that it did not need only a “Muslim” cause to become pro-active. If it could destroy India's integrity through another religious module, it was equally happy to do so. If General Zia ul Haq had spent as much energy on the construction of Pakistan as he did on the destruction of India, Pakistan might have had a rising economic story to tell by now.
Kashmir became the implicit sanction for the emergence, under Zia's beneficial watch, of terrorist groups like the Lashkar-e-Taiba (the Army of the Pure). Zia's successors did little to contain these terrorists. When India protested, Pakistani diplomats were polite across the table, and probably had a good laugh behind Delhi's back. Since Zia's time Pakistan has been asking for “evidence” or proof, and encouraging scepticism or conspiracy theories (dutifully lapped up by sections of the Indian media).
Well, this time there is a canary singing in custody, and a satellite phone abandoned by terrorists with five logged calls to members of the Lashkar. It is the declared intention of the Pure Army to fly the Pakistani flag on top of the Red Fort. Its leader, Hafiz Muhammad Saeed, certainly gets a wink if not a nod from the Pak establishment.
M.J. Akbar is Chief Editor of the Asian Age.
Polls Manifesto JP, pledges 8 provinces
Polls Manifesto
JP pledges 8 provinces
Unb, Dhaka
Courtesy: The Daily Star, Dhaka
Dec. 12, 2008
Jatiya Party (JP) yesterday promised to establish a terrorism, corruption and misrule-free society if voted to power.
Releasing a 12-page election manifesto at Hotel Sundarban in the capital, party chief HM Ershad expressed his determination to form the next government.
Under its administrative reform agenda, JP pledged to divide the country into eight provinces having provincial assembly and provincial cabinet.
Ershad said at least 50 percent head offices in the capital will be relocated to elsewhere in the country if his party is elected to power. He also pledged to introduce upazila system with courts.
The JP manifesto has put population control high on its agenda and pledged to make available birth control materials free of cost. It will also give cash rewards to the parents who will adopt permanent family planning after having one or two children.
Ershad said poor people and slum-dwellers in each ward, union and upazila will be registered and given rice, pulses and edible oil for free. These poor people will also be given free medical treatment at community clinic, union health and family welfare complex.
Besides, landless people will be given government land on long-term basis through land reforms.
On food security, Ershad said necessary subsidy will be given to bring food prices within the buying capacity of the common people.
For energy security, the Jatiya Party will formulate policy to use coal in energy production and set up Rooppur nuclear power plant with foreign assistance.
On defence, Ershad said the army will be involved in the country's development activities. He said they will arrange housing for retired soldiers and policemen in each district. In the manifesto, JP promised to establish a society free from militancy and terrorism.
In education sector, JP will introduce free education for both male and female students up to HSC and increase salary of registered private school teachers to the level of government schoolteachers.
Ershad said girls' cadet school will be set up in each division, including one at Pairabandh in Rangpur in honour of Begum Rokeya.
On public health, he said each doctor passed from a government medical college would have to serve at least two years at union health complex before getting chance of acquiring higher degree. He will introduce nurses' training college in each district.
In agriculture sector, Ershad said JP will ensure agriculture inputs at fair prices as well as fair price for agricultural produce. He also pledged to set up “Palli Bank” to help farmers.
On social front, JP will ensure allowances for elderly and incapable citizens from the state and re-establish “Pathakoli” Trust to impart education to child labourers.
In the communications sector, JP will construct flyovers and new roads to ease traffic congestions in Dhaka and outside. A modern launch terminal will be set up at Pagla to relocate the central launch terminal from Sadar Ghat in the city.
Besides, Ershad pledges to construct Padma and Teest Bridges and deepsea port at Kutubdia.
In industrial and economic sector JP will encourage foreign investors to build industries in Bangladesh. Besides, incentives will be given for establishing fisheries and poultry industries and agri-industry in Monga-prone and underdeveloped areas.
If voted to power, his government will give priority to giving jobs to children of freedom fighters and increase allowances for the registered freedom fighters.
JP pledges 8 provinces
Unb, Dhaka
Courtesy: The Daily Star, Dhaka
Dec. 12, 2008
Jatiya Party (JP) yesterday promised to establish a terrorism, corruption and misrule-free society if voted to power.
Releasing a 12-page election manifesto at Hotel Sundarban in the capital, party chief HM Ershad expressed his determination to form the next government.
Under its administrative reform agenda, JP pledged to divide the country into eight provinces having provincial assembly and provincial cabinet.
Ershad said at least 50 percent head offices in the capital will be relocated to elsewhere in the country if his party is elected to power. He also pledged to introduce upazila system with courts.
The JP manifesto has put population control high on its agenda and pledged to make available birth control materials free of cost. It will also give cash rewards to the parents who will adopt permanent family planning after having one or two children.
Ershad said poor people and slum-dwellers in each ward, union and upazila will be registered and given rice, pulses and edible oil for free. These poor people will also be given free medical treatment at community clinic, union health and family welfare complex.
Besides, landless people will be given government land on long-term basis through land reforms.
On food security, Ershad said necessary subsidy will be given to bring food prices within the buying capacity of the common people.
For energy security, the Jatiya Party will formulate policy to use coal in energy production and set up Rooppur nuclear power plant with foreign assistance.
On defence, Ershad said the army will be involved in the country's development activities. He said they will arrange housing for retired soldiers and policemen in each district. In the manifesto, JP promised to establish a society free from militancy and terrorism.
In education sector, JP will introduce free education for both male and female students up to HSC and increase salary of registered private school teachers to the level of government schoolteachers.
Ershad said girls' cadet school will be set up in each division, including one at Pairabandh in Rangpur in honour of Begum Rokeya.
On public health, he said each doctor passed from a government medical college would have to serve at least two years at union health complex before getting chance of acquiring higher degree. He will introduce nurses' training college in each district.
In agriculture sector, Ershad said JP will ensure agriculture inputs at fair prices as well as fair price for agricultural produce. He also pledged to set up “Palli Bank” to help farmers.
On social front, JP will ensure allowances for elderly and incapable citizens from the state and re-establish “Pathakoli” Trust to impart education to child labourers.
In the communications sector, JP will construct flyovers and new roads to ease traffic congestions in Dhaka and outside. A modern launch terminal will be set up at Pagla to relocate the central launch terminal from Sadar Ghat in the city.
Besides, Ershad pledges to construct Padma and Teest Bridges and deepsea port at Kutubdia.
In industrial and economic sector JP will encourage foreign investors to build industries in Bangladesh. Besides, incentives will be given for establishing fisheries and poultry industries and agri-industry in Monga-prone and underdeveloped areas.
If voted to power, his government will give priority to giving jobs to children of freedom fighters and increase allowances for the registered freedom fighters.
Emergency ceases on December 17 Meetings, rallies allowed from today
Emergency ceases on December 17
Meetings, rallies allowed from today
Courtesy: The Daily Star, Dhaka
Dec. 12, 2008
Staff Correspondent
The state of emergency, imposed in the country on January 11, 2007, will be withdrawn on December 17, the caretaker government announced Wednesday night.
"The government has decided to lift the state of emergency from December 17 with the approval of the president," Commerce Adviser Hossain Zillur Rahman said reading out an announcement during a press briefing at the PID conference room.
He also said restrictions on rallies and processions would be withdrawn from today to facilitate campaign for the parliamentary elections scheduled for December 29.
The government's spokesman said the election campaigns must be conducted following the Code of Conduct, 2008, issued by the Election Commission (EC) for political parties and candidates.
The announcement came a day before the deadline for withdrawal of candidature for the parliamentary elections expires. Seemingly, it was a response to the BNP-led four-party alliance's 48-hour deadline issued Monday to meet their two remaining demands, lifting of the emergency and suspension of the EC's power to cancel candidacy in the elections.
BNP and its allies, following an alliance meeting chaired by BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia later Wednesday night, welcomed the government's announcement terming it "a victory for the four-party and the people".
BNP Secretary General Khandaker Delwar Hossain told reporters after the meeting, "We hope that people will now be able to participate in the upcoming elections in a festive and joyful mood."
All major political parties including the BNP-led alliance have been demanding the lifting of the emergency before the elections.
The Fakhruddin Ahmed-led interim administration relaxed a number of provisions of the state of emergency earlier this year. Several advisers had been saying over the last few months that the emergency would be lifted in a "reasonable time" but they did not come up with any specific date.
Earlier, the EC during a meeting with the chief adviser at his office suggested that the emergency be lifted from December 12 on expiry of the deadline for withdrawing candidacy for the national polls.
In August this year, the interim government held elections to the local government bodies under the state of emergency. Later, it termed the elections very successful as they were violence-free and without any major incident of vote rigging.
President Iajuddin Ahmed promulgated the state of emergency on January 11, 2007, to quell political violence over the abortive parliament elections originally scheduled for January 22, 2007.
Meetings, rallies allowed from today
Courtesy: The Daily Star, Dhaka
Dec. 12, 2008
Staff Correspondent
The state of emergency, imposed in the country on January 11, 2007, will be withdrawn on December 17, the caretaker government announced Wednesday night.
"The government has decided to lift the state of emergency from December 17 with the approval of the president," Commerce Adviser Hossain Zillur Rahman said reading out an announcement during a press briefing at the PID conference room.
He also said restrictions on rallies and processions would be withdrawn from today to facilitate campaign for the parliamentary elections scheduled for December 29.
The government's spokesman said the election campaigns must be conducted following the Code of Conduct, 2008, issued by the Election Commission (EC) for political parties and candidates.
The announcement came a day before the deadline for withdrawal of candidature for the parliamentary elections expires. Seemingly, it was a response to the BNP-led four-party alliance's 48-hour deadline issued Monday to meet their two remaining demands, lifting of the emergency and suspension of the EC's power to cancel candidacy in the elections.
BNP and its allies, following an alliance meeting chaired by BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia later Wednesday night, welcomed the government's announcement terming it "a victory for the four-party and the people".
BNP Secretary General Khandaker Delwar Hossain told reporters after the meeting, "We hope that people will now be able to participate in the upcoming elections in a festive and joyful mood."
All major political parties including the BNP-led alliance have been demanding the lifting of the emergency before the elections.
The Fakhruddin Ahmed-led interim administration relaxed a number of provisions of the state of emergency earlier this year. Several advisers had been saying over the last few months that the emergency would be lifted in a "reasonable time" but they did not come up with any specific date.
Earlier, the EC during a meeting with the chief adviser at his office suggested that the emergency be lifted from December 12 on expiry of the deadline for withdrawing candidacy for the national polls.
In August this year, the interim government held elections to the local government bodies under the state of emergency. Later, it termed the elections very successful as they were violence-free and without any major incident of vote rigging.
President Iajuddin Ahmed promulgated the state of emergency on January 11, 2007, to quell political violence over the abortive parliament elections originally scheduled for January 22, 2007.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Ushatan seeks 'blessing' for his return
Yesterday I received a phone call from Mr. Ushatan Talukdar at 21.05 hrs. He sought my ‘blessing’ (according to his word used) for his return to the national election. According to him, I am one of the three senior JSS leaders. He mentioned the names of Goutam, me and himself. He said- my weight and acceptance would help him get achievement in the coming election, therefore, my ‘blessing’ was important to him.
I asked him whether his candidature was a timely one, explaining the current ‘situation’. He argued four positive conditions in favour of him, which were: 1. the election will be held under a Caretaker Government, 2. There is no candidate from UPDF, 3. about 100,000 false votes could not come to the voter list and 4. The vote will be held with photo voter list.
I invited him to visit me and convince me in favour of his election. He was happy to visit me for the purpose.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Ushatan gets 'Yes' card
Courtesy: New Age, Dhaka
Dec. 8, 2008
Extract from EC validates 34 more candidatures by staff correspondent
On Saturday, the commission validated candidature of 33 after the first day of hearing on 73 appeals.
Those who were give yes cards after hearing on Sunday include: Tazul Islam of Habiganj-4, Tofazzal Hossain of Naogaon-2, Md. Omar Faruk Liton of Munshiganj-3, Sultan Mamunur Rashid of Naogaon-3, Md. Mohiuddin Mahji of Munshiganj-1, Md. Mobasher Alam Bhuiyan of Comilla-10, AHM Zajid Hossain of Lakshmipur-2, Ushatan Talukder of Rangamati, Enamul Haq Enam of Chittagong-8, Md. Shafiullah of Sherpur-1, Md. Abdul Mannan Talukder of Sunamganj-1, SM Afzal Hossain of Gopalganj-3, Waliullah of Comilla-7, Md. Kaium Uddin of Naogaon-1, Al Amin of Comilla-1, Md. Abdul Karim of Habiganj-3, Abu Belal Hossain Jwel of Nagaon-6, Md. Zalal Uddin of Chandpur-2, Abdul Aziz Mollah of Joypurhat-1, Md. Masudur Rahman (Mohon Rayhan) of Sirajganj-2, Syed Rafiqul Haq of Sunamgamj-1,
Dec. 8, 2008
Extract from EC validates 34 more candidatures by staff correspondent
On Saturday, the commission validated candidature of 33 after the first day of hearing on 73 appeals.
Those who were give yes cards after hearing on Sunday include: Tazul Islam of Habiganj-4, Tofazzal Hossain of Naogaon-2, Md. Omar Faruk Liton of Munshiganj-3, Sultan Mamunur Rashid of Naogaon-3, Md. Mohiuddin Mahji of Munshiganj-1, Md. Mobasher Alam Bhuiyan of Comilla-10, AHM Zajid Hossain of Lakshmipur-2, Ushatan Talukder of Rangamati, Enamul Haq Enam of Chittagong-8, Md. Shafiullah of Sherpur-1, Md. Abdul Mannan Talukder of Sunamganj-1, SM Afzal Hossain of Gopalganj-3, Waliullah of Comilla-7, Md. Kaium Uddin of Naogaon-1, Al Amin of Comilla-1, Md. Abdul Karim of Habiganj-3, Abu Belal Hossain Jwel of Nagaon-6, Md. Zalal Uddin of Chandpur-2, Abdul Aziz Mollah of Joypurhat-1, Md. Masudur Rahman (Mohon Rayhan) of Sirajganj-2, Syed Rafiqul Haq of Sunamgamj-1,
Army always with CHT people Says Gen Moeen
Courtesy: The Daily Star, Dhaka
Dec. 8, 2008
Our Correspondent, Rangamati
Army Chief Gen Moeen U Ahmed yesterday said the army will always be with the people of Chittagong Hill Tract (CHT) areas for their socio-economic development.
Development is not possible without ensuring a good communication system. That's why, the government has given the charge to the army to maintain smooth communication through construction of new roads and renovate roads, bridges and culverts in the region, he added.
Inaugurating Ranirhat Bridge on Chittagong-Rangamati highway, the army chief said the army men are carrying out these tasks relentlessly.
Terming the CHT a place of different ethnic and Bangalee people, Moeen said around nine lakh people -- both indigenous and Bangalee -- are living peacefully here.
“Rangamati incorporates vast areas where there are huge potential for the socio-economic development of the people. We can take financial benefits through taking development projects in sectors of fisheries, forest and tourism,” he added.
He said a total of 15 roads -- four in Rangamati, 10 in Bandarban and the rest one in Cox's Bazar -- are currently being constructed under the Special Works Organisation (SWO).
Engineers Construction Battalion (ECB) is implementing those road development projects. The 130.02-metre bridge at Ranirhat was constructed by ECB-16 at a cost of Tk 8.30 crore.
Dec. 8, 2008
Our Correspondent, Rangamati
Army Chief Gen Moeen U Ahmed yesterday said the army will always be with the people of Chittagong Hill Tract (CHT) areas for their socio-economic development.
Development is not possible without ensuring a good communication system. That's why, the government has given the charge to the army to maintain smooth communication through construction of new roads and renovate roads, bridges and culverts in the region, he added.
Inaugurating Ranirhat Bridge on Chittagong-Rangamati highway, the army chief said the army men are carrying out these tasks relentlessly.
Terming the CHT a place of different ethnic and Bangalee people, Moeen said around nine lakh people -- both indigenous and Bangalee -- are living peacefully here.
“Rangamati incorporates vast areas where there are huge potential for the socio-economic development of the people. We can take financial benefits through taking development projects in sectors of fisheries, forest and tourism,” he added.
He said a total of 15 roads -- four in Rangamati, 10 in Bandarban and the rest one in Cox's Bazar -- are currently being constructed under the Special Works Organisation (SWO).
Engineers Construction Battalion (ECB) is implementing those road development projects. The 130.02-metre bridge at Ranirhat was constructed by ECB-16 at a cost of Tk 8.30 crore.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Election 2008, First woman hoping to fly flag from CHT
Courtesy: The Daily Star, Dhaka
Dec. 6, 2008
Shantimoy Chakma, Rangamati
For the first time in Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT), an indigenous woman is contesting from Rangamati constituency in the upcoming parliamentary election.
Moitree Chakma, wife of Retired district joint judge Dipen Dewan, is in the polls race as an independent candidate.
She, along with her husband, submitted her nomination paper on the last day set for this by the Election Commission.
Her husband submitted nomination from the constituency as a candidate of the 4-party alliance but it was cancelled as he is yet to complete three years after retirement.
However, nomination paper of Moitree stands valid after scrutiny, the Returning Officer (RO) said.
Dipen Dewan went on voluntary retirement in 2006.
Sources said Moitree filed nomination paper least her husband's nomination paper is cancelled during scrutiny.
Party sources said she is now virtually a candidate of four-party alliance after cancellation of her husband's nomination paper.
“BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia nominated me from 4-party alliance alongside my husband”, she said.
“If voted to power, I will work to empower women by creating employment opportunities and income generating projects. And I will also try my best to stop violence against women,” she said.
Dec. 6, 2008
Shantimoy Chakma, Rangamati
For the first time in Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT), an indigenous woman is contesting from Rangamati constituency in the upcoming parliamentary election.
Moitree Chakma, wife of Retired district joint judge Dipen Dewan, is in the polls race as an independent candidate.
She, along with her husband, submitted her nomination paper on the last day set for this by the Election Commission.
Her husband submitted nomination from the constituency as a candidate of the 4-party alliance but it was cancelled as he is yet to complete three years after retirement.
However, nomination paper of Moitree stands valid after scrutiny, the Returning Officer (RO) said.
Dipen Dewan went on voluntary retirement in 2006.
Sources said Moitree filed nomination paper least her husband's nomination paper is cancelled during scrutiny.
Party sources said she is now virtually a candidate of four-party alliance after cancellation of her husband's nomination paper.
“BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia nominated me from 4-party alliance alongside my husband”, she said.
“If voted to power, I will work to empower women by creating employment opportunities and income generating projects. And I will also try my best to stop violence against women,” she said.
CHT election to the Asia News
Courtesy: Asia News, Website: www.asianews.com.pk
Excerpts: 557 Nominations Declared Invalid.
Dec. 6, 2008
The correspondent in Rangamati said the nomination papers of Dipen Dewan of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and Ushaton Talukdar of Parbatya Chattagram Jana Sanghati Samiti were cancelled on the day of scrutiny, said sources in the office of the returning officer in Rangamati.
The nomination paper of Dipen Dewan was cancelled as he was yet to pass the time required to contest polls after quitting government job. Ushaton’s nomination paper was cancelled as he had not resigned from the Chittagong Hill Tracts Regional Council, sources said.
The returning officer found valid the nomination papers of seven other aspirants — Maitri Chakma, wife of Dipen Dewan of the BNP, Kaniska Chakma as an independent candidate, Moni Swapan Dewan of the Liberal Democratic Party, Jasimuddin Kabir as an independent candidate, Alo Rani Aich of the Bikalpadhara Bangladesh, Dipankar Talukdar of the Awami League and Sukriti Jiban Khisha of the Jatiya Party (Ershad), the sources said.
Excerpts: 557 Nominations Declared Invalid.
Dec. 6, 2008
The correspondent in Rangamati said the nomination papers of Dipen Dewan of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and Ushaton Talukdar of Parbatya Chattagram Jana Sanghati Samiti were cancelled on the day of scrutiny, said sources in the office of the returning officer in Rangamati.
The nomination paper of Dipen Dewan was cancelled as he was yet to pass the time required to contest polls after quitting government job. Ushaton’s nomination paper was cancelled as he had not resigned from the Chittagong Hill Tracts Regional Council, sources said.
The returning officer found valid the nomination papers of seven other aspirants — Maitri Chakma, wife of Dipen Dewan of the BNP, Kaniska Chakma as an independent candidate, Moni Swapan Dewan of the Liberal Democratic Party, Jasimuddin Kabir as an independent candidate, Alo Rani Aich of the Bikalpadhara Bangladesh, Dipankar Talukdar of the Awami League and Sukriti Jiban Khisha of the Jatiya Party (Ershad), the sources said.
Rupayan receives life threat over phone
Last night I received two rounds of phone calls when I was asleep, the first one was at 23.25 hrs while the second one was at 12.56 hrs, from 01556613309, a TeleTalk cell number. During first call a record was played for more than five minutes, a lecture of some one possibly delivered during PCP (Hill Student Council’s Council gathering) Council at Rangamati on 25th of last month. The last one came when I was at deep sleep. The phone was released when I picked it up. I believe it was purely to humiliate me out of political reason.
On Nov. 5, 2008 I received a phone call from 01556619474 at 20.48 hrs. A male called me in Chakma language “Am I speaking with Sir?” I said “Yes.” Then he threatened me by saying “You’ve been involved in the movement for last 21 years. Now you’re engaged in dirty (chudur bhudur) activities. We’re arriving there and you’ll face consequences.”
My colleagues- Chandra Sekhar Chakma and Advocate Saktiman Chakma had also received same threat from the same person through the same cell number soon after me.
This is purely a political threat to take our lives. The callers should know that I have been in politics for not last 21 years, but for long 39 years, which started in 1969 through the nation-wide movement against the West Pakistani rulers, which is still known as ‘Mass movement of 69’. From 1973 to 1998, a complete quarter century, I had been in underground politics and am still active in politics. My politics is not to serve the 'Black Politics', but to serve the Jumma people and distressed persons of the country and beyond through a transparent and joint leadership.
The callers are not aware of that I’ve been in politics not for my personal gains but to fulfill a political agenda and hence no threat or humiliation through phone calls can budge me from my stand. They should know that nobody can dictate history. Of course, their guardians are well aware of my moral strength and capability, and hence, they've been giving me threat from unregistered SIMs. I invite them to face me politically. I'm guided by reason but not by emotion or compulsion, therefore, I can't be threatened. I'm like butter to good persons but like TNT (tri-nitro toluene, a kind of high explosive) which gains its immense power when it gets hardest materials, like steel and boulder to politocrats.
On Nov. 5, 2008 I received a phone call from 01556619474 at 20.48 hrs. A male called me in Chakma language “Am I speaking with Sir?” I said “Yes.” Then he threatened me by saying “You’ve been involved in the movement for last 21 years. Now you’re engaged in dirty (chudur bhudur) activities. We’re arriving there and you’ll face consequences.”
My colleagues- Chandra Sekhar Chakma and Advocate Saktiman Chakma had also received same threat from the same person through the same cell number soon after me.
This is purely a political threat to take our lives. The callers should know that I have been in politics for not last 21 years, but for long 39 years, which started in 1969 through the nation-wide movement against the West Pakistani rulers, which is still known as ‘Mass movement of 69’. From 1973 to 1998, a complete quarter century, I had been in underground politics and am still active in politics. My politics is not to serve the 'Black Politics', but to serve the Jumma people and distressed persons of the country and beyond through a transparent and joint leadership.
The callers are not aware of that I’ve been in politics not for my personal gains but to fulfill a political agenda and hence no threat or humiliation through phone calls can budge me from my stand. They should know that nobody can dictate history. Of course, their guardians are well aware of my moral strength and capability, and hence, they've been giving me threat from unregistered SIMs. I invite them to face me politically. I'm guided by reason but not by emotion or compulsion, therefore, I can't be threatened. I'm like butter to good persons but like TNT (tri-nitro toluene, a kind of high explosive) which gains its immense power when it gets hardest materials, like steel and boulder to politocrats.
Friday, December 5, 2008
Invalid Candidature in the CHT
Bandarban
1. Chotan Kanti Tanchnagya, for putting false signatures of voters in support of his canditatures, as it requires 1% support of total voters during submission of nomination paper.
2. Kyasoi Aung, for giving false information.
Rangamati
1. Dipen Dewan, he is yet to complete a three years period after his resignation from the post of Senior Joint District Judge.
2. Ushatan Talukdar, as he did not resign from the post of Councillor, CHT Regional Council. He left Rangamti yesterday for Dhaka to appeal to Election Commission and also make a writ against the decision of the Returning Officer.
Khagarachari
1. Kujendra Lal Tripura, for not getting party nomination from Awami League.
2. Samir Datta Chakma, ditto and not resigning from the post of principal of Panchari college..
3. Joynal Abedin, for ditto from BNP.
4. Wadud Bhuiyan, for getting jail award under Emergency.
5. Pradip Kumar Mutshuddi, for being loan defaulter.
1. Chotan Kanti Tanchnagya, for putting false signatures of voters in support of his canditatures, as it requires 1% support of total voters during submission of nomination paper.
2. Kyasoi Aung, for giving false information.
Rangamati
1. Dipen Dewan, he is yet to complete a three years period after his resignation from the post of Senior Joint District Judge.
2. Ushatan Talukdar, as he did not resign from the post of Councillor, CHT Regional Council. He left Rangamti yesterday for Dhaka to appeal to Election Commission and also make a writ against the decision of the Returning Officer.
Khagarachari
1. Kujendra Lal Tripura, for not getting party nomination from Awami League.
2. Samir Datta Chakma, ditto and not resigning from the post of principal of Panchari college..
3. Joynal Abedin, for ditto from BNP.
4. Wadud Bhuiyan, for getting jail award under Emergency.
5. Pradip Kumar Mutshuddi, for being loan defaulter.
Rally with dead body of Rajguru Ven. Aggavansha Mahathero
Ven. Rajguru Aggavansha Mahathero, the Rajguru of the Chakma Raja's Buddhist temple i.e. the central temple of Chakma Circle demised this year. A mammoth rally was organised yesterday at Rangamati town participated by thousands of devotees from different parts of the CHT and beyond. Today a traditional chariot pulling (Gaditana) will be organised at the ground of Chakma Rajbari and will be cremated today.
The Rajguru, popularly known as Rajguru Bhante comes from a Tanchangya family of present day Bileichari Upazila and served Buddhism as monk for 67 years since 1935. He studied Buddhism for ten years in Burma. With the royal invitation of Raja Tridiv Roy he returned from Burma and accepted the position of Rajguru in 1958. He had been a most respected Bhikkshu in the Chittagong Hill Tracts during his lifetime. He founded Parbatya Chattagram Bhikkshu Samiti, which is now working as Parbatya Bhikkshu Sangha. He left the country in 1977 and camped in Kolkata, kept him engaged in international campaign in favour of the CHT movement and back in 2001. In his absence there has been appearance of Ven. Sadhananda Mahathero and other educated monks. During his time the rituals and celebrations had not been superfluous that we can see now.
When I was a boy I saw him many times and this was before the commissioning of the Kaptai dam. When I was a college student I used to visit him at present Rajvihar. I post this report as a token of my highest regards to him.
Rang Lai Mro - urgent medical treatment needed
From: joyoti grech
Date: 5 December 2008 11:41:51 AM
To: info@pmo.gov.bd
Subject: Rang Lai Mro - urgent medical treatment needed
Dear Adviser,
Acting on the information made available in Amnesty International's
Urgent Action bulletin dated 28 November 2008, we are writing to you
to ask as a matter of urgency for your support in providing immediate
and comprehensive medical attention to Rang Lai Mro, currently held in
detention in Chittagong District Jail.
Although Amnesty International have received correspondence from the authorities
responsible for the CHT, Amnesty as of 28 November 2008 has not been informed that Rang Lai Mro is receiving the medical attention he needs.
After his arrest in February 2007, indigenous community leader Rang Lai Mro was treated at Bandarban General Hospital where doctors found he had suffered a heart attack after being tortured in custody at Bandarban Cantonment.
In October 2007 his condition had worsened and he was treated by doctors who urged that he be treated in a better equipped hospital. Yet he was sent back to jail where his risk of further heart attack and deteriorating health is severe.
We understand that the government of Bangladesh has provided specialist medical attention to over a dozen prisoners in the last year, some of whom have received treatment abroad.
Given the deteriorating state of Rang Lai Mro's health and the medical advice that he should receive appropriate medical treatment in a hospital that is better equipped than Bandarban General Hospital, we urge you to take immediate steps to
ensure that Rang Lai is treated as matter of urgency.
International attention is turned to Bangladesh as it approaches election day - now is the opportunity to show the world that Bangladesh is committed to upholding the democratic rights of all its citizens, including those in custody.
As you provide comprehensive medical attention to Rang Lai Mro, we would also urge that his sentence be re-examined. He has been sentenced to 17 years imprisonment on charge of possessing a pistol without a license even though his lawyers produced evidence of his license for the pistol.
Yours,
Joyoti Grech
CHT Indigenous Jumma Association Australia.
Date: 5 December 2008 11:41:51 AM
To: info@pmo.gov.bd
Subject: Rang Lai Mro - urgent medical treatment needed
Dear Adviser,
Acting on the information made available in Amnesty International's
Urgent Action bulletin dated 28 November 2008, we are writing to you
to ask as a matter of urgency for your support in providing immediate
and comprehensive medical attention to Rang Lai Mro, currently held in
detention in Chittagong District Jail.
Although Amnesty International have received correspondence from the authorities
responsible for the CHT, Amnesty as of 28 November 2008 has not been informed that Rang Lai Mro is receiving the medical attention he needs.
After his arrest in February 2007, indigenous community leader Rang Lai Mro was treated at Bandarban General Hospital where doctors found he had suffered a heart attack after being tortured in custody at Bandarban Cantonment.
In October 2007 his condition had worsened and he was treated by doctors who urged that he be treated in a better equipped hospital. Yet he was sent back to jail where his risk of further heart attack and deteriorating health is severe.
We understand that the government of Bangladesh has provided specialist medical attention to over a dozen prisoners in the last year, some of whom have received treatment abroad.
Given the deteriorating state of Rang Lai Mro's health and the medical advice that he should receive appropriate medical treatment in a hospital that is better equipped than Bandarban General Hospital, we urge you to take immediate steps to
ensure that Rang Lai is treated as matter of urgency.
International attention is turned to Bangladesh as it approaches election day - now is the opportunity to show the world that Bangladesh is committed to upholding the democratic rights of all its citizens, including those in custody.
As you provide comprehensive medical attention to Rang Lai Mro, we would also urge that his sentence be re-examined. He has been sentenced to 17 years imprisonment on charge of possessing a pistol without a license even though his lawyers produced evidence of his license for the pistol.
Yours,
Joyoti Grech
CHT Indigenous Jumma Association Australia.
Ushatan Talukdar and Dipen Dewan's nomination papers found invalid
Courtesy: New Age, Rangamati
Dec. 5, 2008
Excerpt from report “557 nominations declared invalid” by Khadimul Islam.
“The correspondent in Rangamati said the nomination papers of Dipen Dewan of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and Ushaton Talukdar of Parbatya Chattagram Jana Sanghati Samiti were cancelled on the day of scrutiny, said sources in the office of the returning officer in Rangamati.
The nomination paper of Dipen Dewan was cancelled as he was yet to pass the time required to contest polls after quitting government job. Ushaton’s nomination paper was cancelled as he had not resigned from the Chittagong Hill Tracts Regional Council, sources said.
The returning officer found valid the nomination papers of seven other aspirants — Maitri Chakma, wife of Dipen Dewan of the BNP, Kaniska Chakma as an independent candidate, Moni Swapan Dewan of the Liberal Democratic Party, Jasimuddin Kabir as an independent candidate, Alo Rani Aich of the Bikalpadhara Bangladesh, Dipankar Talukdar of the Awami League and Sukriti Jiban Khisha of the Jatiya Party (Ershad), the sources said.”
Dec. 5, 2008
Excerpt from report “557 nominations declared invalid” by Khadimul Islam.
“The correspondent in Rangamati said the nomination papers of Dipen Dewan of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and Ushaton Talukdar of Parbatya Chattagram Jana Sanghati Samiti were cancelled on the day of scrutiny, said sources in the office of the returning officer in Rangamati.
The nomination paper of Dipen Dewan was cancelled as he was yet to pass the time required to contest polls after quitting government job. Ushaton’s nomination paper was cancelled as he had not resigned from the Chittagong Hill Tracts Regional Council, sources said.
The returning officer found valid the nomination papers of seven other aspirants — Maitri Chakma, wife of Dipen Dewan of the BNP, Kaniska Chakma as an independent candidate, Moni Swapan Dewan of the Liberal Democratic Party, Jasimuddin Kabir as an independent candidate, Alo Rani Aich of the Bikalpadhara Bangladesh, Dipankar Talukdar of the Awami League and Sukriti Jiban Khisha of the Jatiya Party (Ershad), the sources said.”
HC declares 4 emergency provisions void Emergency cannot continue for indefinite period, says HC
Courtesy: New Age, Dhaka
Dec. 5, 2008
Staff Correspondent
The High Court on Wednesday declared illegal and void four provisions of emergency powers ordinance and rules, especially related to the restriction on seeking bail, appeals against lower court orders and stay on the sentences.
The High Court bench of Justice ABM Khairul Haque Md Abdul Hye also observed the state of emergency could not continue for long and an indefinite period.
The court passed the orders and made observations in its judgement in the public interest litigation writ petition filed by the New Age editor, Nurul Kabir, rights activist Sultana Kamal, also a former adviser to the caretaker government, and Dhaka University law teacher Hafizur Rahman Karzon on June 5.
In the judgement, the court declared illegal and void Section 5 of the Emergency Powers Ordinance 2007 and rules 11(3), 19(Gha) and 19(Uma) of the Emergency Powers Rules 2007.
Section 5 stipulates no order issued under the emergency ordinance or rules can be challenged in any court.
Rule 11(3) of the emergency rules bars any appellate court from staying any sentence given in any corruption case, and from granting bail to anyone accused in a case lodged under the emergency rules.
Rule 19(Gha) bars any person, accused in any case under the emergency rules, from seeking bail in any court during the inquiry, investigation and trial of the case.
Rule 19(Uma) stipulates that no appeal can be filed with any appellate court against any order of any court or tribunal and any action taken by the authorities concerned during the inquiry and investigation of any case under the rules.
The court also stripped the Anti-Corruption Commission of the powers, given in Rule 18Ka of the Emergency Powers Rules, to transfer any graft case from any court to special judge’s court.
On the duration of the emergency, the court relied on the arguments made by the petitioners’ counsel M Amirul Islam.
Article 141A(C) of the constitution stipulates, ‘A proclamation of emergency shall cease to operate at the expiry of one hundred and twenty days, unless before the expiration of that period it has been approved by a resolution of parliament.’
If the proclamation of an emergency comes after the dissolution of the parliament, it will cease to operate at the expiry of 30 days from the date of the first sitting of the next parliament, unless before the expiration of that period a resolution approving the proclamation has been passed by the parliament, the article said.
Referring to the constitutional provisions, Amirul argued an election to the parliament had to be held in 90 days after the dissolution of the parliament
The very spirit of the constitutional provisions is that an emergency cannot continue 240 days [90 plus 120 plus 30], but a few days can be added to the period considering the days between the election and the first sitting of the new parliament, Amirul said.
In the judgement, the court also mentioned the attorney general was asked about the argument and he conceded that an emergency could not continue for an indefinite period saying that the emergency would be lifted before the national polls scheduled for December 29.
Declaring void the emergency provisions on restricting bail, the court observed seeking bail was a fundamental right ensured by the constitution and such rights could not be infringed on in any situation even during war.
Article 141B of the constitution empowers the government to make any law and take any executive action transgressing Article 36, 37, 38, 39, 40 and 42 of the constitution, but no other fundamental rights guaranteed by the constitution, during emergency, the court observed.
The Supreme Court, however, has the power to examine the laws and action made or taken transgressing the six articles to look into whether they have been made or taken in accordance with the constitutional provisions and the court can also declare any such law or action illegal after judicial scrutiny, the court said.
The separation of power between the three state organs — the judiciary, legislature, and the executive — is the basic structure of the constitution and the supremacy of the judiciary has been ensured by the constitution, which is the supreme will of the people, the court observed, adding, ‘None in the state can go beyond the constitution and even the president cannot violate any constitutional provisions even during war.’
Congratulating the petitioners on challenging the emergency provisions, the court said, ‘Any citizen can challenge any law or action made in violation of the constitution.’
The constitution is the solemn expression of the will of the people of the state, which is a people’s republic, and such a structure of the state can never be changed even by an amendment to the constitution.
Amirul Islam and Tania Amir moved the case for the petitioners, while former attorney general Mahmudud Islam, M Zahir, AHM Shamsuddin Ahmed Chowdhury Manik, AMM Ali and Azmalul Hossain appeared as amici curiae (friends of the court).
The attorney general, Salahuddin Ahmed, appeared for the government.
Dec. 5, 2008
Staff Correspondent
The High Court on Wednesday declared illegal and void four provisions of emergency powers ordinance and rules, especially related to the restriction on seeking bail, appeals against lower court orders and stay on the sentences.
The High Court bench of Justice ABM Khairul Haque Md Abdul Hye also observed the state of emergency could not continue for long and an indefinite period.
The court passed the orders and made observations in its judgement in the public interest litigation writ petition filed by the New Age editor, Nurul Kabir, rights activist Sultana Kamal, also a former adviser to the caretaker government, and Dhaka University law teacher Hafizur Rahman Karzon on June 5.
In the judgement, the court declared illegal and void Section 5 of the Emergency Powers Ordinance 2007 and rules 11(3), 19(Gha) and 19(Uma) of the Emergency Powers Rules 2007.
Section 5 stipulates no order issued under the emergency ordinance or rules can be challenged in any court.
Rule 11(3) of the emergency rules bars any appellate court from staying any sentence given in any corruption case, and from granting bail to anyone accused in a case lodged under the emergency rules.
Rule 19(Gha) bars any person, accused in any case under the emergency rules, from seeking bail in any court during the inquiry, investigation and trial of the case.
Rule 19(Uma) stipulates that no appeal can be filed with any appellate court against any order of any court or tribunal and any action taken by the authorities concerned during the inquiry and investigation of any case under the rules.
The court also stripped the Anti-Corruption Commission of the powers, given in Rule 18Ka of the Emergency Powers Rules, to transfer any graft case from any court to special judge’s court.
On the duration of the emergency, the court relied on the arguments made by the petitioners’ counsel M Amirul Islam.
Article 141A(C) of the constitution stipulates, ‘A proclamation of emergency shall cease to operate at the expiry of one hundred and twenty days, unless before the expiration of that period it has been approved by a resolution of parliament.’
If the proclamation of an emergency comes after the dissolution of the parliament, it will cease to operate at the expiry of 30 days from the date of the first sitting of the next parliament, unless before the expiration of that period a resolution approving the proclamation has been passed by the parliament, the article said.
Referring to the constitutional provisions, Amirul argued an election to the parliament had to be held in 90 days after the dissolution of the parliament
The very spirit of the constitutional provisions is that an emergency cannot continue 240 days [90 plus 120 plus 30], but a few days can be added to the period considering the days between the election and the first sitting of the new parliament, Amirul said.
In the judgement, the court also mentioned the attorney general was asked about the argument and he conceded that an emergency could not continue for an indefinite period saying that the emergency would be lifted before the national polls scheduled for December 29.
Declaring void the emergency provisions on restricting bail, the court observed seeking bail was a fundamental right ensured by the constitution and such rights could not be infringed on in any situation even during war.
Article 141B of the constitution empowers the government to make any law and take any executive action transgressing Article 36, 37, 38, 39, 40 and 42 of the constitution, but no other fundamental rights guaranteed by the constitution, during emergency, the court observed.
The Supreme Court, however, has the power to examine the laws and action made or taken transgressing the six articles to look into whether they have been made or taken in accordance with the constitutional provisions and the court can also declare any such law or action illegal after judicial scrutiny, the court said.
The separation of power between the three state organs — the judiciary, legislature, and the executive — is the basic structure of the constitution and the supremacy of the judiciary has been ensured by the constitution, which is the supreme will of the people, the court observed, adding, ‘None in the state can go beyond the constitution and even the president cannot violate any constitutional provisions even during war.’
Congratulating the petitioners on challenging the emergency provisions, the court said, ‘Any citizen can challenge any law or action made in violation of the constitution.’
The constitution is the solemn expression of the will of the people of the state, which is a people’s republic, and such a structure of the state can never be changed even by an amendment to the constitution.
Amirul Islam and Tania Amir moved the case for the petitioners, while former attorney general Mahmudud Islam, M Zahir, AHM Shamsuddin Ahmed Chowdhury Manik, AMM Ali and Azmalul Hossain appeared as amici curiae (friends of the court).
The attorney general, Salahuddin Ahmed, appeared for the government.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Draft Electoral Manifesto
Courtesy: The Daily Star, Dhaka
Dec. 4, 2008
Visit: http://www.thedailystar.net/story.php?nid=66086
AL pledges to tackle graft, food prices
Assures disclosure of wealth records of MPs, their family members to ensure transparency
Shakhawat Liton and Hasan Jahid Tusher
Awami League (AL) has drafted its electoral manifesto with promises to publish wealth accounts and sources of income of the prime minister, ministers, lawmakers and their families to ensure transparency of those in government.
The party says containing price hike of essentials will be its top priority if voted to power.
It will ban the use of religion in politics, and bring the war criminals to justice.
To fight the graft menace, it will allow the Anti-Corruption Commission to function independently.
“Some kind of truth and accountability commission may also be considered to investigate corruption of the last seven years,” reads the draft planned to be placed tomorrow before the central working committee, AL's highest decision-making body.
The Daily Star has obtained a copy of the draft that says the party will deal with terrorism and militancy with an iron hand. Besides, it will be tough on loan defaulters, tender manipulators, black money holders and users of muscle power.
Independence of the judiciary will be guaranteed and extrajudicial killings stopped.
AL President Sheikh Hasina will unveil the manifesto at a press conference on December 12.
In the draft, AL undertakes to pursue a vigorous programme to solve shortage of electricity. It aims to raise the country's power generation capacity to 5,000 megawatts by 2011 and 7,000 megawatts by 2013. It will implement the ongoing power projects on an urgent basis.
The party will introduce e-governance and a citizen's charter in every department in efforts to reduce corruption and increase quality in public services.
To strengthen the legislature and promote accountability of the government, it will arrange for the speaker of parliament to be elected from the majority party and deputy speaker from the opposition.
Its lawmakers will be allowed to differ with the party line on everything except a few subjects. The number of reserved seats for women will be raised to 100 from 45.
The manifesto stresses the need to encourage mutual respect and tolerance to do away with politics of confrontation. “Awami League will take an initiative to formulate a consensual and unanimous charter of political behaviour.”
AL promises to keep the armed forces above all controversy, and frame a national defence policy in consultation with every stakeholder.
It will implement the Chittagong Hill Tracts peace accord for socio-economic development of the hill districts. The treaty was signed while the party was in power in 1997.
A team of experts led by AL advisory council members HT Imam and Abul Maal Abdul Muhith has drawn up the manifesto outlining a vision for the years 2020 and 2021, the one hundredth anniversary of the birth of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and golden jubilee of the country's independence.
The declaration of objectives have been based on views from sector-wise experts and academics of leading national and international universities, as well as the 31-point election reform programme of AL.
AL presidium, the highest policy-making body, has already given its nod of approval, said party sources.
Dec. 4, 2008
Visit: http://www.thedailystar.net/story.php?nid=66086
AL pledges to tackle graft, food prices
Assures disclosure of wealth records of MPs, their family members to ensure transparency
Shakhawat Liton and Hasan Jahid Tusher
Awami League (AL) has drafted its electoral manifesto with promises to publish wealth accounts and sources of income of the prime minister, ministers, lawmakers and their families to ensure transparency of those in government.
The party says containing price hike of essentials will be its top priority if voted to power.
It will ban the use of religion in politics, and bring the war criminals to justice.
To fight the graft menace, it will allow the Anti-Corruption Commission to function independently.
“Some kind of truth and accountability commission may also be considered to investigate corruption of the last seven years,” reads the draft planned to be placed tomorrow before the central working committee, AL's highest decision-making body.
The Daily Star has obtained a copy of the draft that says the party will deal with terrorism and militancy with an iron hand. Besides, it will be tough on loan defaulters, tender manipulators, black money holders and users of muscle power.
Independence of the judiciary will be guaranteed and extrajudicial killings stopped.
AL President Sheikh Hasina will unveil the manifesto at a press conference on December 12.
In the draft, AL undertakes to pursue a vigorous programme to solve shortage of electricity. It aims to raise the country's power generation capacity to 5,000 megawatts by 2011 and 7,000 megawatts by 2013. It will implement the ongoing power projects on an urgent basis.
The party will introduce e-governance and a citizen's charter in every department in efforts to reduce corruption and increase quality in public services.
To strengthen the legislature and promote accountability of the government, it will arrange for the speaker of parliament to be elected from the majority party and deputy speaker from the opposition.
Its lawmakers will be allowed to differ with the party line on everything except a few subjects. The number of reserved seats for women will be raised to 100 from 45.
The manifesto stresses the need to encourage mutual respect and tolerance to do away with politics of confrontation. “Awami League will take an initiative to formulate a consensual and unanimous charter of political behaviour.”
AL promises to keep the armed forces above all controversy, and frame a national defence policy in consultation with every stakeholder.
It will implement the Chittagong Hill Tracts peace accord for socio-economic development of the hill districts. The treaty was signed while the party was in power in 1997.
A team of experts led by AL advisory council members HT Imam and Abul Maal Abdul Muhith has drawn up the manifesto outlining a vision for the years 2020 and 2021, the one hundredth anniversary of the birth of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and golden jubilee of the country's independence.
The declaration of objectives have been based on views from sector-wise experts and academics of leading national and international universities, as well as the 31-point election reform programme of AL.
AL presidium, the highest policy-making body, has already given its nod of approval, said party sources.
A glimpse of adivasi life
Courtesy: The Daily Star, Dhaka
Dec. 4, 2008
Nadia Sarwat
"Weave our hearts together with a thousand colourful threads" -- with this slogan a three-day indigenous cultural festival was held recently at Bangladesh-China friendship Convention Centre. Organised by Chittagong Hill Tracts Development Facility (CHTD), the festival featured handicrafts, traditional attire, food and cultural programmes featuring diverse music and dance by different ethnic groups.
The festival was open to all and generated much enthusiasm among Dhakaiites who had an opportunity to have a glimpse of the lifestyle and culture of the indigenous groups living in both the hilly and plain lands of Bangladesh. A total of 14 ethnic groups including Chakma, Marma, Tanchangya, Garo (Mandi), Tripura, Malo, Khyang and others participated at the festival with a range of their products. Handmade household items, earrings, bracelets, anklets, beaded necklaces, dolls, toys and more attracted a visitors young and old. But the highlight was hand-woven colourful clothes and shawls decorated with traditional ethnic motifs. Bengali women were looking for "thami" -- a flamboyant garb. The foodies had their source of entertainment at stalls offering ethnic dishes including rice cakes.
The cultural pro-gramme included traditional "Biju/bihu" (a dance celebrating the new year), "Jhum" (dance celebrating 'jhum' cultivation and harvest -- one of the most important aspects of Chakma lifestyle), "Bottle dance", "War dance" display or martial arts and more. Khumi artistes performed the festival's theme dance. A group of Manipuri dancers presented the famed "Rash Nritya" -- featuring the "leela" of Sri Krishna. They also performed a dance with the rhythm of "mridanga". Mridanga is frequently played at Manipuri festivals and celebrations.
The cultural pro-gramme also included solo and chorus songs by artistes of different ethnic groups. On the second day of the festival, a vibrant fashion show featuring indigenous clothing and a concert were held at the Mirpur indoor stadium. Artistes performed a fusion of popular Bangla and indigenous music at the concert. The closing ceremony was held at the Hall of Fame, Bangladesh-China Friendship Convention Centre on December 2.
Dec. 4, 2008
Nadia Sarwat
"Weave our hearts together with a thousand colourful threads" -- with this slogan a three-day indigenous cultural festival was held recently at Bangladesh-China friendship Convention Centre. Organised by Chittagong Hill Tracts Development Facility (CHTD), the festival featured handicrafts, traditional attire, food and cultural programmes featuring diverse music and dance by different ethnic groups.
The festival was open to all and generated much enthusiasm among Dhakaiites who had an opportunity to have a glimpse of the lifestyle and culture of the indigenous groups living in both the hilly and plain lands of Bangladesh. A total of 14 ethnic groups including Chakma, Marma, Tanchangya, Garo (Mandi), Tripura, Malo, Khyang and others participated at the festival with a range of their products. Handmade household items, earrings, bracelets, anklets, beaded necklaces, dolls, toys and more attracted a visitors young and old. But the highlight was hand-woven colourful clothes and shawls decorated with traditional ethnic motifs. Bengali women were looking for "thami" -- a flamboyant garb. The foodies had their source of entertainment at stalls offering ethnic dishes including rice cakes.
The cultural pro-gramme included traditional "Biju/bihu" (a dance celebrating the new year), "Jhum" (dance celebrating 'jhum' cultivation and harvest -- one of the most important aspects of Chakma lifestyle), "Bottle dance", "War dance" display or martial arts and more. Khumi artistes performed the festival's theme dance. A group of Manipuri dancers presented the famed "Rash Nritya" -- featuring the "leela" of Sri Krishna. They also performed a dance with the rhythm of "mridanga". Mridanga is frequently played at Manipuri festivals and celebrations.
The cultural pro-gramme also included solo and chorus songs by artistes of different ethnic groups. On the second day of the festival, a vibrant fashion show featuring indigenous clothing and a concert were held at the Mirpur indoor stadium. Artistes performed a fusion of popular Bangla and indigenous music at the concert. The closing ceremony was held at the Hall of Fame, Bangladesh-China Friendship Convention Centre on December 2.
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