Gardens set up in CHT to protect medicinal plants

New Age, Dhaka, Nov 30, 2008

Bdnews24.com . Dhaka

Ethnic minority communities in the Chittagong Hill Tracts are moving to protect dwindling medicinal plants in efforts to save centuries-old herbal-based medicinal practices.
The people of Hazachhara and Mubacchari villages under Barkol upazila in Rangamati have set up two protected gardens to save at least 150 native species found in the region. This is the first such indigenous initiative, backed by the government and USAID, for preserving the medicinal plants of Bangladesh.
The local Chakma community claims Bengali settlers are responsible for the decline in medicinal plants through destruction of forestland in the hill tracts, while the Bengalis point fingers at illicit loggers and forest officials, the custodians of the forests.
A 2006 study identified rapid urbanisation and development activities in the region after signing of the 1997 CHT peace accord as the major cause for depletion of the native species.
‘Our baidyas (traditional healers) find it hard to get useful plants to make our medicines which are totally dependent on the herbs in the jungle,’ Milon Chakma, a resident of village Hazachhara, told the correspondent of the news agency as he accompanied the US ambassador, James F Moriarty, to the remote village last week.
Moriarty heard the views of the locals and assured them of providing his government’s support for the securing of the medicinal plants and their livelihood. ‘The (Bengali) settlers bring their cattle for grazing to areas where the medicinal plants grow. They do not listen to us.’
Roni Chakma, another local resident, was more optimistic: ‘The Bengalis used to cut the trees from the hills, now the trend has lessened.’
Nevertheless, in a bid to preserve the plant species, the community has undertaken the garden project supported by the Aranyak Foundation and funded by the US government.
The Aranyak Foundation, established in 2003, is a grant-giving organisation devoted to the conservation of bio-diversity in Bangladesh.
‘Now, we can protect our plants from depletion,’ Reboti Mohan Chakma, who heads a seven-member committee to oversee the Hazachhara garden, told the news agency.
Farid Uddin Ahmed, executive director of the US-funded Aranyak Foundation, said local stakeholders were also sensitising the people to understand the importance of the plants.
‘Deforestation is the main cause for their depletion in the hill region,’ the executive director said.
‘Out of some 250 commonly used species of medicinal plants in the CHT, we have been able to preserve 150 in the two gardens.’
The 2006 study, focusing on Rangamati’s medicinal species, cites that out of 5,000 plant species in Bangladesh, around 1,000 have curative qualities.
‘Rapid urbanisation and development activities started in the area after the historic peace accord in the CHT,’ said the study, jointly carried out by Md Mahamud Sharif and Gouri Rani Banik at the Institute of Forestry and Environmental Sciences of the Chittagong University.
‘Outsiders gained entry to areas of the CHT with previously forbidden access. Illicit loggers and others gained illegal benefits from the forest and the medicinal plants came under threat,’ the study said.
At least 30 per cent of the modern pharmacological drugs are derived directly or indirectly from plants and plant extracts, the study cites.
The worldwide commercial value of various drugs and pharmaceuticals deriving from tropical forests is projected to be around $20 billion, it pointed out.

Ex-councillor Murder, Khagrachhari district council chief suspended

Front Page, Nov. 24, 2008, Monday.
Courtesy: The Daily Star, Dhaka. www.thedailystar.net

Our Correspondent, Khagrachhari

The government has suspended Khagrachhari Hill District Council (KHDC) Chairman Monindra Lal Tripura temporarily following his alleged involvement in the murder of former KHDC councillor Anupam Tripura.

KHDC Chief Executive Officer Sayed Mohammad Abul Hashim said a letter signed by Senior Assistant Secretary of Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) affairs ministry Begum Nazma Khanom was faxed to them, reading that Monindra's suspension would be effective from October 31, the day he was arrested in connection with Anupam's murder.

"But it was not made clear for how many days the suspension order would remain in force," he said.

When contacted, Monindra, who was released from Dhaka Central Jail on bail on November 19, alleged that Additional IGP Naba Bikrom Kishore Tripura and his relative Bidhan Tripura have manipulated the administration into making such a decision.

He said he would go to court for justice.

Tejgaon police along with members of Detective Branch of police arrested Monindra on October 31 this year in the capital's Raja Bazar for his alleged involvement in Anupam's murder.

Comment by Rupayan Dewan: This is an unprecedented action of the Govt. against any HDC Chairman.

Political parties registered with Election Commission in Nov 2008

1. Bangladesh Awami League,
2. Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP),
3. Bangladesh Jatiya Party led by HM Ershad,
4. Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami,
5. Communist Party of Bangladesh,
6. Workers Party of Bangladesh,
7. Jatiya Party (JP) led by Anwar Hossain Manju,
8. Bangladesh Jatiya Party (BJP),
9. Liberal Democratic Party,
10. Bangladesh Samyabadi Dal (ML),
11. Krishak Sramik Janata League,
12. Ganatantri Party,
13. Bangladesh National Awami Party,
14. Bikalpadhara Bangladesh,
15. Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (Jasad),
16. Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (JSD),
17. Zaker Party,
18. Bangladesh Samajtantrik Dal,
19. Bangladesh Tarikat Federation,
20. Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon,
21. Bangladesh Muslim League,
22. National Peoples Party,
23. Jamiyote Ulamaye Islam Bangladesh,
24. Gono Forum,
25. Gono Front,
26. Progotishil Ganatantrik Dal,
27. Bangladesh National Awami Party-Bangladesh NAP,
28. Bangladesh Jatiya Party,
29. Oikyaboddho Nagorik Andolon,
30. Islami Front Bangladesh,
31. Bangladesh Kalyan Party,
32. Islami Oikya Jote,
33. Bangladesh Khelafat Majlish,
34. Islami Andolon Bangladesh,
35. Bangladesh Islami Front,
36. Jatiya Ganatantrik Party, and
37. Bangladesher Biplobi Workers Party.

Tyranny of Myanmarese armed outfits: A challenge to the security forces for providing public security

The recent killing of three persons- one Headman (Mouza head), one Karbari (village head) and a Jum cultivar in Bandarban hill district has shaken the district and heightened the insecurity level of the indigenous Jummas living in the eastern part of central and southern CHT, bordering Mizoram and Myanmar, as these areas have been under the control of Myanmarese armed outfits since 1998 when the Shanti Bahini returned to over ground after signing the CHT Peace Accord. Even some areas of Bandarban hill district had been under their control despite the existence of the Shanti Bahini, the armed wing of the JSS. When JSS was engaged in peace negotiation with Awami League government in 1997 the then UNO of Thanchi Upazila was abducted by one of the Myanmarese armed outfits and the Shanti Bahini had been held responsible by a quarter of the government with deliberate motive.

Arakan Democratic Party (ADP), Arakan Liberation Party (ALP), and a few more Myanmarese armed outfits control a major part of the CHT starting from Dumdumya Union and southern part of Jurachari Union and Farua Union of Rangamati hill district to Roangchari Upazila, Thanchi Upazila, Ruma Upazila, Alikadam Upazila, Lama Upazila and Nakhyongchari Upazila of Bandarban hill district. In Rangamti hill district the ADP controls more than 22 villages, from Tangkoitang village to Raingkhyong river source (tri-junction i.e. Indo-Bangla-Myanmar border) of Belaichari Upazila and from Adi bazaar to Barkalak village, the source of Thega river of Jurachari Upazila. ADP also controls over 100 villages of Roangchari Upazila and Ruma Upazila of Bandarban hill district. It extorts 20,000 to 200,000 taka from each village depending on the numbers of households, which are inhabited by poor Jum cultivars who starve at least six months in a year. If they find a solvent Jum cultivar they separately charge ranging from 50,000 taka to 200,000 taka. Such a so-called solvent Jum cultivar as well as a Karbari of a village from Rengkhyong upper area, under Farua Union complaints to me that this year he had to donate 50,000 taka by selling out his domestic animals.

It has been reported that the ADP headquarters is based at Barkalak village, a village of Tanchangya people that falls on the extreme Indo-Bangla border of Thega river source. Families of the ADP personnel live in the Barkalak village while the barracks are located at nearby jungles. An elderly person named Thowaingya is the supreme of this outfit who succeeded Mongshe Rakhain, who was killed in an internal conflict. Reports reveal that its personnel use solder badge with a clear writing- Arakan Democratic Party. Reports also claim that they are equipped with sophisticated automatics.

A source reports: Arakan Liberation Party is another Myamarese armed outfit which headquarters are at the source of Toijong river in Mizoram. The upper part of Karnaphuli river is called Toijong, They also come to the CHT, however, they do not extort or humiliate the Jumma inhabitants. They occasionally come to Ruma bazaar of Bandarban district.

The poor Jumma communities controlled by Myammarese armed groups have been under tremendous pressure, as they do not get appropriate support from the administration, because of inaccessibility and .disperseness of villages. Last year the abduction of Sumon, Danida official had been a toughest mission to rescue him from the kidnappers and recent killing on 17th instant of Paithowai U Marma (Headman of Singafa Mouza), Chongdu Mro (village head) and a Jum cultivar is another challenge to the law and order maintaining forces. The issue is now serious when the Jugantor, a Bengali national daily reports today that 23 persons including Union Parishad Chairmen are on the hit list of the armed groups. The press statement of the Bohmang Chief released during the cremation of above mentioned three persons at Bandarban central cremation place demands to ensure public security and stop barbaric killings.

To combat atrocities and killings by Myanmarese outfits a participatory mechanism involving Jumma communities is a must. And without enhancing capacities of the CHT Regional Council and Hill District Councils as per laws, it is not possible to negotiate these atrocities. More over, raising of CHT Police as per Hill District Council laws can ensure local confidence and their accessibility to remote communities.

Please read: Massive hunt for killers of 3 indigenous leaders, The Daily Star, Dhaka, www.thedailystar.com (It could be found in this blog) and
The Jugantor, Dhaka, www. jugantor.com (above news clipping).
__________

Let the small bird- "bar-tailed godwit" be our source of inspiration for endurance- page 1

I generally read the headlines of a newspaper first and then choose an important news item. On 20th Nov 2008 when I got the daily Prothom Alo I did the same but forgetting news items on current burning political issues my eyes and mind got attracted to this news item. I was surprised to know how a small bird that can fly thousands miles non-stop. I’ve been attracted to this news item, as we all should have the same endurance and determination to bring changes in our society. This small bird should be our source of immense inspiration to fight against POLITOCRACY and all odds.

‘Bar-tailed godwit’ (Limosa limosa baueri), a small bird that has been printed in the back page of the Prothom Alo has endurance to fly non-stop 7,200 miles in 9 days from Alaska to New Zealand; without water, food or rest for a while, the ‘Proceedings of the Royal Society B Journal’ reveals. A scientific record through satellite monitoring in 2006-7 establishes the rare discovery.

This bird can be seen in the CHT, I presume, which is known as ‘Chegah’ to the Chakma people. The Ornithologists could confirm about it.

Please visit: http://journals.royalsociety.org/content/?k=bar+tailed+Godwit+bird

Let the small bird- "bar-tailed godwit" be our source of inspiration for endurance- page 2

37 parties eligible to contest election: EC, Number significantly drops

37 parties eligible to contest election: EC
Number significantly drops

Dhaka, Nov 22, 2008
Courtesy: The Daily Star, Dhaka, www.thedailystar.net

Staff Correspondent

The Election Commission (EC) has declared 37 registered political parties eligible for contesting the upcoming ninth parliamentary election.

The number is significantly less than the previous elections because of the strict provision for political parties' registering with the EC. Ninety-six parties took part in the 2001 parliamentary polls.

In a circular issued on November 20, the EC declared the names of the eligible political parties and their electoral symbols.

The parties are Bangladesh Awami League, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Jatiya Party led by HM Ershad, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, Communist Party of Bangladesh, Workers Party of Bangladesh, Jatiya Party (JP) led by Anwar Hossain Manju, Bangladesh Jatiya Party (BJP), Liberal Democratic Party, Bangladesh Samyabadi Dal (ML), Krishak Sramik Janata League, Ganatantri Party, Bangladesh National Awami Party, Bikalpadhara Bangladesh, Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (Jasad), Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (JSD), Zaker Party, Bangladesh Samajtantrik Dal, Bangladesh Tarikat Federation, Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon, Bangladesh Muslim League, National Peoples Party, Jamiyote Ulamaye Islam Bangladesh, Gono Forum, Gono Front, Progotishil Ganatantrik Dal, Bangladesh National Awami Party-Bangladesh NAP, Bangladesh Jatiya Party, Oikyaboddho Nagorik Andolon, Islami Front Bangladesh, Bangladesh Kalyan Party, Islami Oikya Jote, Bangladesh Khelafat Majlish, Islami Andolon Bangladesh, Bangladesh Islami Front, Jatiya Ganatantrik Party, and Bangladesher Biplobi Workers Party.

A total of 107 political parties had applied to the EC for registration.

Only 14 of these 37 parties participated in the country's first general election in 1973. In the second election held under military rule in 1979, the number climbed to 29. Twenty-eight parties contested the third parliamentary election in 1986, also held under a military ruler and boycotted by a BNP-led alliance.

Despite boycotts by major opposition parties--Awami League, Jamaat-e-Islami, a left alliance and a few others--43 parties contested the sixth parliamentary election held on February 15, 1996.

However, the sixth parliament was dissolved after just 11 working days, which led to the introduction of the caretaker government system.

Parties that exist only on papers always failed to win any seat in the previous parliamentary elections with the paltry votes they managed to bag. And it has been reported many a time that these parties often sell their polling agents to major political parties during elections.

Chiefs of these parties also consider their positions as a status symbol.

In the circular issued Thursday, the EC also directed authorities concerned to form teams for vigilance and observation and election monitoring, and cells for maintaining law and order.

4-party says yes to JS polls on Dec 28, -----

Khaleda blasts govt's talks handling; EC hails announcement, sits with BNP today; AL yet to react; govt feels upbeat
Nov 21, 2008
Staff Correspondent

The BNP-led four-party alliance yesterday announced that it would take part in the parliamentary election if it is held on December 28 but maintained that the government must fulfil three of its key conditions before the polls.

In order for the alliance to run in the elections, the government has to lift the state of emergency completely on the last day of withdrawing nominations, delay upazila polls by a month, and scrap the Election Commission's authority to cancel candidature, it said.

"We gave the government four proposals for going to the elections, but on November 19 the government said it would consider three of them if we go to the polls on the deferred date of December 28," BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia said at a press conference at her Gulshan office last night.

Khaleda came up with the latest stance after back-to-back meetings of the BNP Standing Committee and top leaders of the four-party alliance, ending all speculations and uncertainty over the alliance's participation in the long overdue ninth parliamentary election.

The chiefs of the components of the alliance were also present at the briefing telecast live on some private television channels.

On Monday, the four-party alliance gave the government 48 hours to meet its four-point demand for going to the election.

On Wednesday, the government said despite its frantic efforts on Tuesday with the alliances led by the Awami League and BNP, the alliances failed to reach a consensus on deferring the polls. It announced that the election would be held on December 18 as scheduled.

In an instant reaction late last night, Chief Election Commissioner ATM Shamsul Huda termed Khaleda's announcement "positive". He said they would sit with the BNP today to discuss the latest development.

Education and Commerce Adviser Hossain Zillur Rahman also said, "It is certainly positive that everybody is showing responsibility."

The AL did not make any official statement on the four-party alliance's latest stance and is likely to issue one today.

However, AL Presidium member Matia Chowdhury in her instant reaction said Khaleda's announcement has rendered the holding of the election uncertain again.

The AL-led alliance also has demands similar to those of the four-party alliance: complete lifting of the state of emergency before submission of nominations, delaying upazila polls by a month, and scrapping the Election Commission's authority to cancel candidature as laid down in section 91(E) of the amended Representation of the People Order (RPO).

The EC has several times informed the government that it is in favour of keeping the RPO section, which both the electoral alliances are demanding to be repealed. They said they would also leave it up to the government to decide on the two alliances' demand for deferring the upazila polls.

EC sources last night told The Daily Star that they might request the government to talk with the AL to know about its position on the four-party alliance's latest stance.

KHALEDA'S BRIEFING
In a jam-packed news briefing, Khaleda said the EC has lost its neutrality and therefore cannot be empowered with the power to cancel candidature.

"We asked the government and the Election Commission to set a congenial atmosphere for the elections because elections cannot be free and fair under the state of emergency," she said.

The former prime minister complained that while nobody contacted the BNP for discussion, the government was visited by a number of "influential" and "powerful" individuals on Wednesday after which it came up with the "thoughtless" announcement of holding the election on December 18.

"This has surprised, disappointed and saddened the people. The people of this country have not waited two years for a one-sided, stage-managed election," Khaleda said, alleging that the government is working for one particular party.

"I am calling on the government to retract its one-sided declaration and arrange a participatory, free, fair and neutral election," she said.

She said everyone has to take decisions carefully this time so that no one can question the neutrality of the armed forces.

Khaleda expressed dissatisfaction over the government's failure to implement any of the four-party alliance's seven demands and the EC's announcement of the election schedule without consultation.

She also alleged that her family was forced to leave the country and stay away from politics.

A few BNP leaders, who think that boycotting the polls will be a wrong decision, had been mounting pressure on the BNP chairperson for reaching an agreement with the government on participating in the election whenever it is held, insiders said.

They told The Daily Star that both the government and BNP yesterday unofficially contacted each other to settle the issue.

The government side categorically informed BNP leaders that they would consider delaying the polls by 10 days only if the BNP officially announces to take part in the poll.

Many leaders and activists of the four-party alliance gathered in front of the BNP chairperson's office to hear the declaration yesterday. They became joyous at the declaration of the alliance's participating in the election and showed victory signs and chanted party slogans.

Courtesy: The Daily Star, Dhaka,
www.thedailystar.net

Manabendra Larma recalled

Courtesy: New Age, Dhaka, Metro Section, www.newagebd.com
Nov 21, 2008
Staff Correspondent

Speakers at a discussion on Thursday said Manabendra Narayan Larma had waged a lifelong struggle to establish the rights of not only the ethnic minorities, but also the deprived people of all sections of the society.
To pay tributes to Manabendra Narayan Larma, former chief of Parbatya Chattagram Janasanghati Samity, on the occasion of his 25th anniversary of death, Bangladesh Adivasi Odhikar Andolon organised the discussion at the Liberation War Museum auditorium.
Pankaj Bhattacharya, a presidium member of Gono Forum, who chaired the discussion said, ‘MN Larma was not only a leader of the ethnic minority groups but also a leader of the nation. He fought to establish a society based on equity and social justice and tried to save the Jhoom community from the attack of extreme nationalism.’
Eminent writer Syed Abul Maksud said MN Larma had all the qualifications to become one of the best parliamentarians in the parliamentary history of Bangladesh.
‘He used to talk boldly about the deprived people of the society including the ethnic minorities, poor farmers and daily labourers while delivering his speech in the parliament. But outside the house, he was friendly with everybody,’ said Maksud.
‘Manabendra Larma was a pioneer of Jhoom nationalism. Larma was involved in politics with an aim to ensure the social and political emancipation of the people of the hill tracts, but when he failed to attain it he opted for an armed struggle,’ he said.
‘His death has caused an irreparable loss to the leadership of the country. He could have become a great leader in the movement for establishing a non-communal and democratic society,’ he observed.
Workers’ Party president, Rashed Khan Menon said, ‘Manabendra Larma tried to make us understand the mistake we committed in 1971 when Bangladesh emerged as a new nation. He fought to secure an autonomous hill tracts region in the same way we had fought for our autonomy against Pakistan in 1971.’
While presenting the keynote speech, Zannat-e-Ferdous, assistant general secretary of the Bangladesh Adivasi Odhikar Andolon, said, ‘Manabendra Larma should be declared a national leader.’ She also called for the constitutional recognition of the hill people.
The meeting was addressed, among others, by a Communist Party leader Ruhin Hossain Prince, the president of Bangladesh Adivasi Odhikar Andolan, HKS Arefin and general secretary Mesbah Kamal.

Ticket divides party into 3 factions Zahedul Alam to run independent

Courtesy: The Daily Star, Dhaka, www.thedailystar.net

Thursday, November 20, 2008
National

Ticket divides party into 3 factions
Zahedul Alam to run independent
O
ur Correspondent, Khagrachhari

Khagrachhari Awami League has been divided into three factions following nomination of district AL president Jatindra Lal Tripura tyo contest the upcoming Jatiya Sangsad election.

Party men opposed to Jatindra burst into angry protests. They hoisted black flags atop party offices in Khagrachhari and held a protest meeting in front of the party office in the hill town protesting nomination of Jatindra.

They said a large number of party men will resign from party under the leadership of Zahedul Alam and Kujendra if the decision is not changed.

Of the three factions, one is led by district AL secretary Zahidul Alam and the other by vice-president Kujendra Lal Tripura. Both the factions have rejected central AL's decision. The faction led by Zatindra is a minority one, party sources said.

Zahidul, who collected nomination paper earlier, yesterday declared that he would contest as an independent candidate, the sources said.

The party at a meeting earlier suggested the name of Kujendra as a nominee.

He also alleged that Jitendra has no acceptance in his own community let alone others.

District AL press secretary Abdul Momin told this correspondent that the AL decision has disappointed party leaders and activists. In voting for selection, Zatindra got the lowest 30 votes out of 132 at the party meeting held on November 8.

Justice Amirul made chairman of National HR Commission

Courtesy: The Daily Star, Dhaka, 20 Nov 2008
www.thedailystar.net

Ashutosh Sarkar

Justice Amirul Kabir Chowdhury, a former judge of the Supreme Court, has been appointed the chairman of the newly formed National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).

President Iajuddin Ahmed has given the appointment to him as per recommendation of the selection body. Justice Amirul retired from the Appellate Division on June 23 last year.

Prof Niru Kumar Chakma, a teacher of the Department of Philosophy of Dhaka University, and Munira Khan, former chairperson of Fair Election Monitoring Alliance (FEMA), were also appointed as members of the commission.

The government has formed the commission on September 1 in order to investigate human rights violations and advise the government on the enforcement of international human rights covenants.

Prof Niru told The Daily Star yesterday that they were appointed for three years and he was asked to join the office on December 1.

"The aim of the NHRC is to protect and ensure human rights of the people of the country. We will work for developing human rights situation of the country by keeping pace with the world," he said.

Prof Niru said Bangladesh is pledge-bound to protect human rights and the formation of the NHRC will help to do this.

He also said the chairman and members of the commission will sit in an informal meeting today at its office on Hare Road in the capital.

On September 21, a high profile selection committee recommended their names to the President for the posts of chairman and members of the NHRC.

National Human Rights Commission Ordinance-2007 came into effect on September 1 to constitute the NHRC, which will investigate reports or complaints of human rights violations, negligence of human rights, and maintain the standards of prisons or correction facilities. It will mediate between disputing parties if necessary.

The commission was approved in principal by the cabinet last December after years of delay under the BNP-led coalition government.

JS elections on Dec 18, Government affirms after talks with parties fail, stays hopeful of all-party polls on time

Acknowledgement: The Daily Star, Dhaka, www.thedailystar.net
Nov 20, 2008
Staff Correspondent

The caretaker government last night declared again that the ninth parliamentary election will be held on the original scheduled date of December 18, after its frantic two-day negotiations with BNP-led 4-party alliance on the question of poll deferment had failed.

After a series of meetings with the chief adviser in his office, Commerce Adviser Hossain Zillur Rahman also announced that the upazila polls will also be held on the original scheduled date of December 28.

The military backed government's rather hard line approach came after its failure to strike an all party consensus while it is also promise bound to the people to hold the long stalled parliamentary election by the year end.

Briefing reporters in the Chief Adviser's Office around 8:00pm yesterday, Zillur said the government had taken various steps so the elections can be held with participation of all political parties, and had made that its top priority.

The adviser said the BNP-led alliance placed four demands on November 16 as preconditions for its participation in the polls.

"Although the demands were placed at the eleventh hour, the government in consultation with the Election Commission put forward a 4-point proposal to the two political alliances led by Awami League and BNP."

The government proposals were: deferment of the parliamentary election by ten days to December 28, total lifting of the emergency at an appropriate time before the election taking into consideration the law and order situation, holding upazila elections on January 8, 2009, and implementing clause 91(e) of the amended Representation of the People Order (RPO) with utmost caution and accountability.

"Despite multifarious communications and maximum efforts, the Election Commission and the government could not broker a consensus between the two alliances. Therefore, the parliamentary and upazila elections will be held according to the original schedules," Zillur told a jam-packed news briefing.

He said, "Under the circumstances, the government and the Election Commission earnestly hope that all political parties will participate in the elections according to the schedules, for the sake of greater national interest and sustainable democracy."

Zillur said in order to hold the elections safely on time the government and the Election Commission (EC) will take all necessary security measures with utmost vigilance.

"The government hopes that all will play their roles in transition to democracy keeping in mind the national interest." he said.

The government adviser, who has been working as the main negotiator and government spokesperson, however declined to take questions from the reporters.

The government negotiators Zillur, Law Adviser AF Hassan Ariff, LGRD Adviser Anwarul Iqbal, Foreign Adviser Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury, and Communication Adviser Ghulam Quader held a series of meetings with Chief Adviser Fakhruddin Ahmed and the chief election commissioner (CEC) yesterday to come to the latest decision.

Earlier in the day, after a meeting with the chief adviser, CEC ATM Shamsul Huda however said the EC was ready to reschedule the general election for December 28, if the government could get all parties on board.

In the evening just before Zillur's news briefing, the CEC told reporters in the EC Secretariat that the commission still wanted to hold the election according to the original schedule, but for the sake of the participation of all parties they were ready to defer the parliamentary poll.

The government embarked on fresh parleys with political parties, especially with the BNP-led alliance, on Tuesday night following the alliance's 48-hour ultimatum the night before for meeting its four demands, which are: total lifting of the state of emergency, suspension of some 'objectionable' clauses in the amended RPO including repeal of clause 91(e), deferment of the December 28 upazila elections till one month from the parliamentary poll, and rescheduling of the parliamentary poll ensuring that hajis will be able to cast their votes.

Instructed by the chief adviser the delegation of five advisers held talks with AL chief Sheikh Hasina and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia but the bid for a consensus failed, prompting the government's latest announcement.

UK REACTION
The United Kingdom has once again urged all political parties to take part in the upcoming general elections to meet the expectations of the people of Bangladesh.

In an instant reaction to the latest political situation, a spokesperson of the British High Commission in Dhaka last night said, "We believe that the people of Bangladesh want a free and fair election with the fullest possible participation."

"We therefore urge all parties to take part in the election and meet the expectations of the people," the spokesperson added.

Kader Siddiqui left out of new poll alliance

Courtsey: The daily Star, Dhaka, www.thedailystar.net

Staff Correspondent

Former president AQM Badruddoza Chowdhury-led Bikalpadhara Bangladesh (BDB), Dr Kamal Hossain-led Gono Forum and a few other political parties yesterday launched a new alliance styled 'Jatiya Juktafront'.

Abdul Kader Siddiqui's Krishak Sramik Janata League (KSJL), which was initially involved in the move, opted out due to disagreement over the combine's name.

Besides BDB AND Gono Forum, the other parties in the alliance are Bangladesh Kalyan Party, Islami Shashantantra, Liberal Party, Zaker Party and Forward Party.

Speaking at the launching programme at a city hotel, Dr Kamal Hossain said they have formed the alliance to offer the countrymen a platform independent of the two major parties. They have drawn inspiration from the Juktafront of 1954.

The new coalition will seek to bring about a qualitative change in politics and free the country from corruption, terrorism and poverty. It will work to establish a pro-people parliament where honest and qualified individuals will replace the corruptionists.

Badruddoza Chowdhury and Bangladesh Kalyan Party Chairman Major General (retd) Syed Muhammad Ibrahim, among others, spoke on the occasion.

BDB Secretary General Major (retd) Abdul Mannan read out the communiqué that said people must unite in opposition to the politics of black money and muscle power. They must act now to put an end to unbridled corruption and terrorism.

According to sources, Gono Forum proposed the name Juktafront like the one in 1954. Kader Siddiqui said they have no problem with the name. But the history of forming another Juktafront in 2005 will have to be mentioned in the preamble to the new alliance's communiqué.

BDB and Gono Forum leaders dismissed the proposal as 'illogical'.

In 2005, Dr Kamal, Kader Siddiqui and ASM Abdur Rob had forged the alliance to make a third political force. It however did not survive following disputes between the three leaders.

Jatiya Jukta Front launched

Courtesy: New Age, Dhaka, www.newagebd.com

Staff Correspondent

A new political alliance, Jatiya Jukta Front, was on Tuesday launched at a briefing in a city hotel aiming at qualitative changes in politics.
The Bikalpadhara Bangladesh president, AQM Badruddoza Chowdhury, and the Gana Forum president, Kamal Hossain, launched the alliance.
The two leaders in a joint declaration said the alliance would practise politics for a change and it would work for fair politics.
The alliance will also work to establish a transparent government free of corruption.
The declaration said the country is now faced with all-pervasive corruption, endless violence, extreme poverty, emergence of the forces who acted against the independence of the country in 1971 and lack of honest, brilliant and patriotic people in the government and the parliament.
The alliance will work in the manner of Jukta Front formed in 1954, the declaration said.
‘We are going to introduce a politics of change,’ Kamal Hossain said at the briefing. ‘We will never bow down to corruption.’
The alliance will work against the two big political alliances led by the Awami League and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, Badruddoza said.
The Bangladesh Kalyan Party led by Muhammad Ibrahim and the Forward Party led by ABM Mostafa Amin extended support for the alliance.
The alliance will form an electoral alliance with like-minded progressive, democratic, political parties to contest the forthcoming December 18 elections, the alliance organiser said.
Badruddoza at a briefing in November 9 announced the launch of the alliance. Kader Siddik, president of the Krishak Sramik Janata League, attended the November 9 briefing. Kader Siddik did not attend Tuesday’s meeting.
The Bikalpadhara secretary general, Abdul Mannan, read out the joint declaration at the briefing and the acting Gana Forum general secretary Subrata Chowdhury conducted the briefing.
Gana Forum presidium member Pankaj Bhattacharya, central Bikalpadhara leader Mahi B Chowdhury and others attended.
__________

Myanmar armed oufit kills three indigenous community leaders in Bandarban

Source: Prothom Alo, a prestigious Bangladesh national daily. www.prothom-alo.com

Massive hunt for killers of 3 indigenous leaders

Wednesday, November 19, 2008 08:22 AM GMT+06:00

Front Page
Our Correspondent, Bandarban
Courtesy: www.thedailystar.net


Security forces yesterday started a special drive at bordering Thanchi upazila in the district following killing of 'mouja headman' Pai Thoai U and two other tribal men by the armed criminals at two points within a short span of time Monday night.

In the drive, two indigenous people were arrested on suspicion of their involvement with the killings. An army helicopter hovered over the area to keep watch, an unconfirmed source said.

A source at the police station said, Singapa 'mouja headman' Pai Thoai U (45) was gunned down in a brush fire by the armed terrorists in Modok area at about 7:00 pm Monday.

After a few minutes, the gunmen attacked Mra Wa Para, some seven kilometres away from the spot, and gunned down 'Karbari' (village head) of the village Rai Nong Mro, 50, and Chong Doi Mro, 34.

Local people suspected that the killing took place in revenge for giving assistance to government forces in rescue operation after abduction of Danida official Shahid Sumon from Thanchi Kaobori Para on June 24 last year.

A local journalist of the upazila told The Daily Star that terrorists had been threatening to kill 'mouja headman' Pai Thoai U and some other persons since Danida official Sumon's rescue.

Seriously ill Danida official Sumon could be rescued by government forces on July 9 after 16 days of his abduction with the cooperation of Pai Thoai U and local peace-loving people.

Following the incident, the armed terrorists killed six indigenous people, including four of a family at Mra Wa Para on December 14 last year.

An eyewitness said while fleeing after the shootings, the terrorists threatened that they would kill one by one all who have worked against them following Sumon's abduction.

No official version was available despite repeated attempts in the 24 hours after the killings.

Awami League and JSS fight in the CHT

Mr. Dipankar Talukdar and Mr. Bir Bahadur bag Awami League nominations for Rangamati and Bandarban seats respectively for ensuing national elections, the Prothom Alo and the Jugantor reports today. Seikh Hasina, President of Awami League handed over about 150 letters of nominations yesterday. Mr. Jahedul Alam, an aspirant for Khagarachari constituency though scored 80 points keeping all behind him will not get the nomination, as Seikh Hasina will prefer a suitable indigenous person as part of her commitment, an AL source claims.

During 2001 election Mr. Talukdar was defeated and Mr. Maniswapan Dewan got the seat. The JSS' call for total boycott of election and support to Maniswapan Dewan led to Mr. Talukdar's defeat.

It has been learnt that the JSS is collecting signatures (it requires 1% support of voters for an independent candidature) from three constituencies in favour of its three independent candidates- KS Mong, Ushatan Talukdar and Dr. Kanishka Chakma. The observers opine that JSS should support the AL to return to power, for the interest of the implementation of the CHT Accord. Moreover, JSS is not in such strength to return its three candidates.

Kapati lake water goes down, power generation cuts to 150 mw against 230 in the evening- the Prothom Alo reports today

Original modified 5-point charter of demands- page 1

Here I post a copy of the original 5-point charter of demands of the JSS. This is a rare document from my personal collection. I’m convinced; the JSS archive will not have this copy, as the leadership had destroyed many documents while coming to over ground in 1998. This way, I'll keep posting historical records of the Jumma movement for our CHT history. The coming young Jumma and other researchers will benefit from these documents, for writing a correct CHT history.

I'm grateful to the JSS leadership for choosing me as the leader of JSS delegations to the peace talks with the Bangladesh Government, which was started in 1985. The Govt. side was led by Brig. Gen. Golam Helal Morshed Khan, during the first round of talk. I was honoured for having capable colleagues like- Ranjan Bikash Chakma, Sudha Sindhu Khisa, Nitish Dewan and Sneha Kumar Chakma with me in the dialogues with the military Government.

Maj. Saiful Ali, G2, Khagarachari brigade was the youngest official of the Govt. delegation during 1st phase of dialgues at Logang community centre. I met him on 5th of March 1998 at Dhudukchara when the last batch of JSS returnees were coming to overground. He was trying to locate us by saying "Where are my old friends?" He found me out when I was struggling for my launch keeping the plate on my hands. He (I found him putting insignia of Brigadier) felt very bad to seeing me this way, without any table, just with one plate. He repeatedly insited me to go to the VIP table to dine with him. I sincerely regretted the kind honour, as I was pushed out by 'hungry' Awami Leagures and Chatra League activists who have alreay accupied the chairs.

Original modified 5-point charter of demands- page 2

Original 5-point charter of demands- page 3

Original 5-point charter of demands- page 4

Original 5-point charter of demands- page 5

Original 5-point charter of demands- page 6

Major Bhante

Kyahlau Bhante, my most respected person from Gaindhya of Rajasthli Upazila of Rangamati Hill District. He was the head priest of Gaindhya Buddhist temple who came to some attachments with MN Larma, founder of JSS in 1973. He had not been liking the gradual infiltration of outsiders in his area. He demanded regular Shanti Bahini deployment there from JSS. I and Chabia, my close friend were sent to Gaindhya in 1974, to judge the feasibility of keeping an armed Shanti Bahini troop there. We proceeded from Belaichari crossing over the Ghila Mon of Reinglhyong west bank range.

Kyahlau Bhante joined the armed movement and afterwards left the Buddhist monkship, as it was not possible to maintain rules keeping him in hard life. Though he left the robes, still he used to follow almost all the rules followed by a monk. I had a chance to spend about two and a half months with him in 1984 in middle-eastern border of the CHT. I used to honour him by touching his two feets, a traditional way of salutation to seniors, in stead of shaking hands. Once he escaped from sure death from a massive air strafing in Reingkhyong source area.

Unfortunately, he is no more surviving. Had he been alive he could have come with his elderly role in the JSS. JSS activists and the communities he came across will never forget him for his tremendous role in the movement. He will always be remembered with great respect by JSS seniors for his outstanding service in the CHT movement. I salute you Bhante.

My friend Chabai Mogh

Chabai Mogh, Vice President of Hill Students’ Association in 1970 and President in 1971-1972 and a JSS senior, a close friend of mine. I was General Secretary under him for both the terms. Both of us had been product of this historic students association who opted for underground movement.

A friendly moment of us of our underground life (Chabai sits right with dark pant) was captured in mid-1975 at ‘Bhalukyamachara’ barrack by Ms. Joyshree Dewan, the then General Secretary of Parbatya Chattagram Mohila Samiti (CHT Women’s Association) by an f2.8 and 52 mm focal length standard camera. The film was processed by me at our barrack and contact prints were made with the help of kerosene lantern. I’ve been carrying this precious record for the last 33 years. Today I release this document for public view.

He was arrested by police of Kaowkhali and was released after about four years, on 22January 1980. He did not go back to underground, according to JSS but an inner source claims that he was not accepted. He took job under of CHT Dev. Board and afterwards, in 1985 he was killed by his former comrades (?). I can still see bright, many memorable sequences with Chabai and feel guilty to his mother and his family. I was tremendously hurt when I came to know about his killing and I could not accept it all along. I ask- can a killing be a right solution of any suspicion?

Note: (Some corrections may be required).

Civil society demands commitments of Constitutional recognition of IPs in election menifestos

Jumma-San deligation with youngest MP

A Jumma-San indigenous delegation was received by the youngest (25 years) lady M.P. Ms. Veleri of Danish parliament, from a Greeland constituency.

Black beauty

A lady from Dominican Republic whom I met in Geneva and spent about a week in a hotel. She was working for BBC in England and went to see the gathering of world's indigenous peoples in Geneva during UNWGIP. We went to Lusaine, a beautiful city of Switzerland, by train and returned by a ship that could carry about 750 persons. I was amazed to seeing the mammoth Geneva lake surrounded by hills and mountains of Germany, France and Switzerland. The lake is so gigantic which can be at least 20 times larger then the Kaptai lake. The train and ship journey was pleasant with this black beauty and a Keneyan lawyer who did his graduatuin in India.

Saami youth group

A Saami youth group whom I met in Geneva at UN building.

Saami beauty

A Russian Saami beauty whom I met in Geneva

UNESCO peace prize

Seikh Haisna recives the UNESCO peace prize at UESCO building, Paris.

Greelnad Home Rule Govt. Premier

Jumma and San delegation call on Greenland Home Rule Govt. Priemer at Greenland House in Copenhagen. The study tour was organised by ILO which was started from Geneva and visited Copenhagen and Saamiland of Norway, to study on the Saami people and Inuits of greenland. The Jumma delegation is composed of Raja Devasish Roy, Samiran Dewan,Ms. Y ching Marma, Loyal David Howheng, MK Tripura and Rupayan Dewan.

Four figures of Jumma movement

Four figures of the Jumma movement. Ranjan Bikash Chakma, Upendra Lal Chakma, Santu Larma and Rupayan Dewan (from left to right) at a JSS hideout. The photograpgh was taken when Upendra Lal Chakma went to report to the JSS when he opted for refugee life in India.

The Peace House

The Peace House, makeshift meeting venue at Dhudukchara village in Panchari Upzila. Seven rounds of peace talks had been held at this venue between the JSS and the sub-committee of the Government of Bangladesh, led by JB Larma and Rashed Khan Menon, during Khaleda Zia regime in 1994.

Journey for peace

Mr. Mathural Lal Chakma, Member, CHT Liaison Committee guides Rupayan Dewan, JSS Dialogue Committee delegation head, to catch heleicopter at Dhudukchara. A journey for peace- a long way from jungle to town.

Dr. Kibria and Rupayan Dewan

Dr. Kibria, Finance Minister and Rupayan Dewan, JSS Dialogue Committee member are engaged in discussion at the lobby of the Prime Minister's office on 2nd December, 1997,soon after the signing of the CHT Peace Accord.

Bimal Kanti Chakma Plaban got bail today

Bimal Kanti Chakma (Plaban), a JSS veteran and JSS central committee member has got bail today at Rangamati Judge Court. He was arrested from his home at Banjugichara about 17 months ago, during the height of state emergency. He has been entangled with the killing of Kina Mohan Chakma murder case. Afterwards, he has been entangled with another murder case (Kali Mohan Chakma). It is expected that hearing of this case will be scheduled soon. The people of the CHT have been tremendously benefiting out of introduction of Judge Court in the CHT. Advocate Saktiman Chakma, Advocate Protim Roy Pampu, Advocate Ushamoy Chakma stood for him in the hearing.

Call for equal rights of ethnic minority people

Staff Correspondent

Academics and artistes on Wednesday called for equal rights of the ethnic minority people observing that they were deprived of their basic rights ensured in the constitution.
They also urged all to take measures to ensure their rights to use their mother tongues freely, besides the Bengali language.
The call came on the opening day of the four-day theatre festival of the ethnic minority people.
Ethnic language movement hero U Sue and national professor Kabir Chowdhury inaugurated the festival, which also includes three seminars on the ethnic minority people at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy in Dhaka.
Adviser to the military-controlled interim government, Hossain Zillur Rahman, as chief guest, said, ‘Every citizen of the country has the right to enjoy his/her privileges ensured in the constitution’.
‘To establish democracy in the country, we have to address the problems of the people, who are deprived of their rights,’ he said.
Looking upon the cultural diversity of the ethnic minority people as a positive feature, the adviser said, ‘We should pay more attention to them and work to improve their social and economic conditions’.
The festival styled ‘conference on diverse culture and 2nd theatre festival of ethnic people’ will reflect the cultural diversity of the minority groups, said the organisers.
About 30 lakh ethnic people belonging to the Chakma, Marma, Tripura, Santal, Garo, Khasia and Manipuri communities live in Bangladesh, they said.
The Research and Development Collective in association with the Action Aid Bangladesh and Shilpakala Academy has organised the festival.
Professor Mesbah Kamal, theatre activists Ramendu Majumdar, Nasir Uddin Yousuff and Aly Zaker, BSA director general, Bhuiyan Shafiqul Islam, and Action Aid country director, Farah Kabir, among others, attended the programme.
After the inauguration, Karma Dharma, a drama, was staged by Puamodo Theatre.

Curtesy: The New Age, Dhaka, 13 Nov 2008.

Pollution takes serious turn at Kaptai Lake

Shantimoy Chakma, Rangamati

Pollution at Kaptai Lake is taking a serious turn due to open defecation by the slum dwellers and unabated dumping of garbage and wastes everyday, causing waterborne diseases like diarrhoea, dysentery and jaundice.

The people in Rangamati and Kaptai may face disasters if water pollution and crisis of safe drinking water continue. It also may cause environmental disaster any time, environmentalists said.

Dumping of wastes, open defecation by the slum dwellers and the passengers of water transports are the prime causes of pollution at Kaptai Lake, sources said.

They said several lakh people living in the lake areas in Rangamati and Kaptai are facing the problem as they use water of the lake in daily household and other purposes. Many of the families, including indigenous people, used to drink lake water directly.

Rangamati unit of National NGO Forum, working on safe water and sanitation in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT), also found very alarming result during its survey and test on lake water.

Its officials have collected water from the most polluted areas of the lake. Total Coli Form (TCF) and Facile Form (RCF) were 800 and 300 respectively in per 100 millilitres in the Rajbari area, 500 TCF and 350 FCF at Banarupa while 600 TCF and 450 FCF in the Reserve Bazar area, according to the test. TCF and FCF level should be zero in water, said Alak Bikash Dewan, an official of the NGO Forum.

Md Anwar Hossain, environmentalist and secretary of Rangamati Environment Conservation and Development Organisation (RECDO), said immediate step is needed to save the lake from pollution. Otherwise, it may cause disastrous situation in future.

He said due to the pollution, waterborne diseases are spreading fast as many depend on the lake water for their bathing and drinking.

Following this, number of patients with waterborne diseases at the Rangamati General Hospital was also increasing, district Civil Surgeon (CS) office sources said.

“In 2007, around 12,492 were attacked with diarrhoea. Of them, four died at Rangamati Hospital. It's likely to increase this year as the number of diarrhoea patients has already reached 9,939 until September. Besides, about 8,837 suffered from dysentery and 772 from jaundice last year. The number of dysentery patients is 5,344 and jaundice are 445 this year (January-September),” they said.

Kazi Nazrul Islam, a member of Kaptai Lake Control Committee, said it's right time to take immediate and necessary coordinated steps to save the lake from pollution and encroaching as well.

Md Firoz Miah, sub-divisional engineer of Department of Public Health Engineering, said they are only entrusted with testing supply water not the lake water.

The department, however, is currently supplying 15 lakh gallons of water daily to the people against the demand of 18 lakh gallons from it's three water treatment plants in the town, he said.

But many people said the water, the department supplies, often augurs bad smell of bleaching powder for which they do not drink it.

Defending the department, Executive Engineer Md Abu Khaled said they use acceptable level of bleaching powder with its supply-water and its not harmful to health.

The Kaptai Lake having 700sq km vast water body was created after building Kaptai Hydroelectric Power Plant (KHPP) in 1960. The dam was constructed at Kaptai upazila for generation of electricity, development of waterway and largescale fish production, sources said.
Source: The Daily Star, Dhaka, 13 Nov 2008.

Political party alliances in Bangladesh

11-Party Alliance
1. Workers Party,
2. Communist Party of Bangladesh,
3. Ganoforum,
4. JSD (Jatiyo Samajtantrik Dal),
5. BSD- Khalekuzzaman (Bangladesh Samajtantrik Dal),
6. BSD- Mahbub ((Bangladesh Samajtantrik Dal),
7. Samyabadi Dal,
8. Gano Ajadi League,
9. Krishak Sramik Samajbadi Dal (Nirmal Sen),
10. Gantantrik Majdur Party,
11. Ganotantrik Biplabi Jot

14-Party Alliance
1. 11-party alliance,
2. Awami League,
3. JSD (Inu)
4. NAP- Mozaffar (National Awami Party).
[* Both BSDs and CPB did not join the alliance with Awami League. The Workers Party has got party division on the question of joining the alliance with Awami League and a seperate group in the name of Biplobi Workers Party has emerged.]

Grand Alliance
Formed in 2006
1. 14-party alliance and
2. Bikalpa Dhara,
3. Jatiya Party led by Ershad,
4. LDP (Liberal Democratic Party) led by Dr. Col. (Retd.) Oli Ahmed, Bir Biktam,
5. Khilafat Majlish.

United Front
Under the leadership of former President Dr. Badruddoza Chowdhury a new alliance was initiated in Dhaka and disclosed at a press conference at Engineers Institution held on 9th November 2008. (Ref. Prothom Alo, Dhaka, 10 November 2008)
1. Bikalpa Dhara led by former President Dr. Badrudozza Chowdhury,
2. Ganoforum led by Dr. Kamal Hossian,
3. Kalyan Party led by Maj. Gen (Retd.) Sayed Muhammad Ibrahim,
4. Krishak Sramik Janata League led by Bangabir Kader Siddiquie, Bir Uttam,
5. Labour Party led by Sekender Ali.

Tritiya Dhara (Third Line)
Prothom Alo reports on 10th November 2008 that Dr. Ferdous Ahmed Koreshi, Chairman, PDP (Progressive Democratic Party) announces at a press conference held at PDP office on 9th November about his initiative to float a separate political alliance, Tritiya Dhara. Dr. Koreshi has already initiated his negotiation with the following religion based parties:
1. Islami Sashantantra Andolan (ISHA, led by Char Monai),
2. Khelafat Andolan (founded by Hafezi Hujur),
3. Bangladesh Muslim League,
4. Bangladesh Samajtantrik Dal-Rab,
5. Khelafat Majlish (led by Saikhul Hadish)
[* Ref. Prothom Alo, 10th November 2008]

4-party alliance
1. BNP led by Khaleda Zia,
2. Jamat-e-Islami,
3. Jatiya Party (Naziur Rahman manju),
4. Islami Okya Jot (a section).

Left Front
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

MN Larma's 25th death anniversary observed

Manabendra Narayan Larma, the awakener of the Jumma nation and the founder of JSS was killed by an armed assault group of JSS dissidents, 25 years ago, on 10th November 1983. He was elected as East Pakistan Provincial Assembly Member in 1970 and became Bangladesh Constituent Assembly Member in 1972, by virtue of East Pakistan Provincial Assembly Member. He was very active and vocalduring the Constitutional Assembly debates. He had raised strong voice in favour of toil masses of Bangladesh and also the Jumma people of the CHT, during the constitution framing debates. His deep knowledge on the relevant issues, extra-ordinary deliberation skill, courage and commitment drew the attention of the Constitution Assembly and the nation as well. He was elected in the first parliamentary election in 1973 from Khagarachari north constituency. Because of situational reason he opted for underground politics as soon as the Bangabandhu was assassinated on 15th August 1975.

He was very popular among the rickshaw pullers and people from different backgrounds in Dhaka city. One day, a rickshaw puller told Larma with great pride that their Larma spoke about their rights in the Assembly a day before. Alas, the poor rickshaw puller did not know that he was pulling Larma, his hero. Larma was invited to join the cabinet of the Bangabandhu. Two persons visited him as representatives of the Bangabandhu with a proposal for being a cabinet member. Bangabandhu himself asked him to join but he had thankfully regretted the offer.

He strongly opposed the move of the Awami League of identifying the Bangladeshi citizens as ‘Bangali’ in October 1972, the last phase of Constitutional framing and demanded Constitutional recognition of national ethnic minorities. His demand was turned down with great hates by the treasury benchers and even the Bangabandhu asked Ms. Sudipta Dewan, a nominated woman M.P. by passing a small chit to oppose the move of Larma. Though Ms. Dewan was an Awami Leaguer but it was not possible to her to go against the identity of the Jummas, as she was a daughter-in-law of the Chakma society, who went from a Hindu Bengali family. More over, she had very strong understanding with the Larma.

MN Larma National Death Anniversary Observation Committee observed Larma’s 25th death anniversary in Dhaka, yesterday. Many national figures were present and spoke at yesterday’s discussion meeting at National Press Club, Dhaka. Rupayan Dewan is in final phase of writing a book on the Larma. With the permission of the Speaker he has visited the Parliament library for a month and now is busy in gathering un-extracted information from core informants.

BNP candidate crisis in the CHT

BNP candidate crisis in CHT
Feud intensifies as bigwigs in jail or inactive
Shantimoy Chakma, Rangamati


BNP is facing severe leadership crisis in Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) as three top leaders in Khagrachhari, Bandarban and Rangamati hill districts are either in jail or inactive.

In absence of 'competent' candidates in the three hill districts to contest in the coming national elections, quite a few district level leaders of BNP are seeking party nomination, adding to the intra-party feud, party sources said.

Former deputy minister for CHT Affairs Ministry and Rangamati BNP leader Moni Swapan Dewan joined Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in 2006, former Khagrachhari BNP lawmaker Abdul Wadud Bhuiyan is in jail and convicted in cases for graft and other crimes while former Bandarban district BNP chief and former Bandarban District Council chairman Mayma Ching is now inactive.

As BNP has failed to create popular leadership in Rangamati during the last couple of decades, district BNP has to look for a suitable candidate from new faces shortly before national elections.

Moni Swapan Dewan, who joined BNP before the past eighth parliamentary election, contested in Rangamati constituency and won the 2001 election defeating former lawmaker and Rangamati district Awami League (AL) President Dipankar Talukder.

Now several leaders of Rangamati BNP including former district joint judge Dipen Dewan, district BNP president Nazim Uddin Ahmed, his son and district Chhatra Dal President Md Mamunur Rashid Mamun and pourasava BNP President Md Shah Alam are trying to get party nomination for the upcoming election.

District BNP Secretary Zahir Ahmed has been convicted in a graft case.

Khagrachhari BNP is also facing severe intra-party feud, especially after 1/11.

Internal conflict intensified after scrapping of the newly formed 11-member district convening committee in the face of opposition from rivals.

Former BNP lawmaker and influential party leader Abdul Wadud Bhuiyan cannot contest in Khagrachhari constituency in the coming national election as he has been convicted in several cases for graft and other crimes.

Khagrachhari BNP is now divided into three factions, making its fate uncertain in the coming election as each group is determined to field its candidate.

Former district BNP President Mohammed Abul Kashem, elder brother of Wadud Bhuiyan, Belayet Hossain and Khagrachhari Poura BNP secretary Mohammed Rafique and a few others leaders have started lobbying with the party high ups for nomination and most leaders are now in Dhaka, party insiders said.

In Bandarban BNP, there is a long-standing internal conflict as district chairperson Mayma Ching and senior vice-president Sachingprue Zeri are leading two persons.

The rift in Bandarban BNP intensified centring the formation of a new 55-member convening committee after dissolution of the 101-member full-pledged district committee.

Former district unit secretary advocate Kazi Mohtul Hossain Jatna and Sachingprue Zeri are leading the newly formed convening committee.

Many top ranking leaders including former district BNP chairperson Mayma Ching, senior vice-president Osman Goni, vice-president Lusai Moung Marma, student affairs secretary Moshiur Rahman and member Arif Uddin were left out from the new convening committee, worsening the feud.

Zeri's faction is conducting campaign as a party candidate for the election while the leaders and activists loyal to Mayma Ching are opposing the bid.

Bandarban BNP has so far failed to build a leadership acceptable to all communities in the area.

Courtesy: www.thedailystar.net

OHCHR Minority Fellowship

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

From: Ilona Alexander [mailto:IAlexander@ohchr.org]
Sent: Wednesday, November 05, 2008 1:57 PM
To: Julian Burger
Subject: Call for OHCHR minority fellowships applications and OHCHR Update on Minority Issues (September-October 2008)
Importance: High


Dear representatives of minority organisations and colleagues,

This is to inform you that the application deadline for the 2009 OHCHR English-speaking minority fellowship programme is 17 November 2008. More information and the application form can be found on the fellowships website:
http://www2.ohchr.org/english/issues/minorities/fellowprog.htm. Please help us disseminate this information among potential applicants.

Attached is also the regular OHCHR Update on Minority Issues (September-October 2008).

Many thanks in advance and kind regards, Ilona

Ilona Klímová-Alexander
Associate Human Rights Officer
Indigenous Peoples and Minorities Unit
Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights
Avenue Giuseppe-Motta 48, Office 2-31
Geneva - Switzerland
Tel: +41 22 928 9845; Fax +41 22 928 90 66
E-mail: ialexander@ohchr.org

Release Ranglai Mro

Thursday, November 06, 2008
NO: 00880 2 8113243

TO:
Dr. Fakhruddin Ahmed
Chief Advisor
Office of the Chief Advisor, Bangladesh
October 27, 2008
Dear Chief Advisor,
On behalf of the Chittagong Hill Tracts Commission we would like to express our deep concern regarding the alleged torture of and denial of effective medical treatment to Mr. Ranglai Mro, an Adivasi leader, the elected Chairperson of Sualok Union Parishad, and head of the local NGO Mrochet of Bandarban, Chittagong Hill Tracts.
On 23 February 2007, Mr Ranglai Mro, aged 38, was forcefully taken away from his residence in Bandarban town by army led-security forces. He was allegedly subject to torture in Bandarban Cantonment and then handed over to the police station of Bandarban Sadar Thana. He was accused of illegal possession of weapons. Mr Ranglai Mro was admitted to the Bandarban Sadar Hospital on the same day, and was subsequently transferred to the Chittagong Medical College Hospital.

Four months after his arrest, Mr. Ranglai Mro was convicted of illegal possession of weapons under the Arms Act 1878, and sentenced to 17 years' imprisonment. An appeal was filed before the High Court against the conviction and sentence and has been pending for over a year.
In October 2007 Mr Ranglai Mro’s health further deteriorated, and he was admitted to the Chittagong Medical College Hospital. There, doctors said he needed treatment in a hospital with better equipment, but he was once more sent back to jail without any improvement in his health. He still has not received appropriate treatment for his heart condition and other medical complications, and his health remains at grave risk.
We strongly urge the authorities to provide Mr. Ranglai Mro with immediate and sustained medical treatment in a hospital, if necessary abroad, which is equipped to provide specialist treatment for his critical heart condition.
The Commission earnestly requests the authorities to order an investigation by an independent, impartial and competent body on the torture of Mr. Ranglai Mro with a view to bringing those responsible to justice.

Eric Avebury Sultana Kamal Ida Nicolaisen
Co-chair of the Co-chair of the Co-chair of the
CHT Commission CHT Commission CHT Commission

Courtesy: http://ericavebury.blogspot.com