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Tarique Rahman Calls for Sweeping Reforms, Cites Allegations of Corruption Under Hasina Government
Rtv News
08 Dec 2024, 16:20
Photo: Collected
Tarique Rahman, acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party-BNP, has delivered a scathing critique of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's administration, alleging large-scale corruption that has significantly harmed the nation's economy.
Citing a recent report by the White Paper Preparation Committee on Bangladesh's Economic Condition, Rahman accused the government of presiding over "an unprecedented kleptocracy" marked by systematic looting of public resources.
The report estimates that $240 billion has been siphoned out of the country over the past 15 years. Among the most striking claims are allegations that $8 billion was misappropriated from 29 large-scale development projects through inflated budgets. The controversial "quick rental" energy initiatives, Rahman said, were designed for profiteering rather than solving infrastructure challenges.
"These revelations paint a grim picture of our financial health and underscore the urgent need for reform," Rahman said in a statement. He warned that further investigation into the banking sector could reveal even more significant abuses, calling for decisive action to address what he described as a systemic failure in governance.
Reform Agenda Proposed
In response to the findings, the BNP has outlined a 31-point reform plan aimed at addressing corruption and rebuilding trust in public institutions. Rahman highlighted two key initiatives within the proposal:
An Anti-Corruption Commission: Central to the BNP’s agenda, this body would be empowered to investigate and prosecute corruption across all levels of government.
An Economic Reform Commission: This initiative seeks to enhance transparency in financial governance, ensure efficient allocation of resources, and foster a culture of accountability within public administration.
"These reforms are not just necessary but urgent," Rahman said. "Without immediate action, the economic future of Bangladesh remains in jeopardy."
Call for Accountability
Rahman also called on the government to recover stolen funds and prosecute those responsible for alleged financial crimes. "Justice must be swift and uncompromising," he said, adding that such measures are essential to restore public trust in governance and prevent future abuses.
The BNP's reform agenda has positioned the party as a proponent of transparency and accountability, aiming to present itself as a credible alternative to the current administration.
Government Silent Amid Allegations
The Hasina administration has yet to respond to the allegations or the BNP's proposed reforms. Political analysts suggest that the report's claims if substantiated, could heighten tensions ahead of upcoming elections, where governance and corruption are likely to be key issues.
Independent observers have noted that corruption allegations have long been a recurring theme in Bangladesh's political discourse. However, the scale of the accusations in the White Paper report has raised new concerns about the country's economic trajectory.
A recent report by the White Paper Preparation Committee on Bangladesh's Economic Condition reveals an unprecedented scale of corruption under Sheikh Hasina’s government, underscoring the dire state of our nation’s financial health. The findings paint a grim picture, exposing her… pic.twitter.com/Y2Lv1BvFQ2
— Tarique Rahman (@trahmanbnp) December 8, 2024
Rahman concluded his Twitter statement by urging the nation to support the BNP's vision for a "transparent, accountable, and equitable" Bangladesh. "The time for change is now," he said. "Our nation cannot afford further mismanagement."
As the debate unfolds, all eyes will be on the government's response to these serious allegations and the broader implications for Bangladesh's political and economic future.
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SSC Form Fill-up to Begin on December 1
The online process of filling out the form for participating in the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) examination 2025 will start on December 1 and continue until December 9. This year the fee of the examinees has increased by Tk100 compared to last year.
Dhaka Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education has published the complete notification of form filling on Thursday (November 14).
According to the notification, the prospective list containing the information of the students to fill out the form will be published on the board's website. Students who wish to participate in the examination can fill out the form online from the prospective list from December 1 to December 9 without a late fee. The deadline for online fee submission without a late fee is 10th December. Students can fill out the form from December 11-14 with a late fee of Tk100. Fees along with fines can be submitted till November 14. The last date for submission of the late fee is 15th December.
Schools can collect a maximum of Tk2,120 form filling fee from a student of humanities and business department including practical and center fees. Tk2,240 to be paid for filling out the form for the science department. A maximum of Tk100 can be charged as a late fee. Salary and session charges for more than 24 months cannot be collected from class IX and X students.
HSIA Enters New Era in 100 Days
Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) witnessed a new wave of reform and renovation over the last 100 days of the interim government, promising a fresh chapter of dreams for both local travelers and expatriates.
With a special focus on serving expatriates- the unsung heroes of Bangladesh's economic progress- the initiatives mark a turning point for airport facilities, passenger convenience, and overall service excellence.
Expatriate Lounge:
One of the most heartfelt initiatives has been the launch of the Probashi Lounge, a dedicated HSIA space to provide a comfortable and respectful service to incoming and outbound migrant workers.
Officially inaugurated by Chief Adviser Prof. Muhammad Yunus, the lounge offers rest areas, subsidized meals, and improved travel support.
Inaugurating the lounge Prof. Yunus assured that the government remains committed to honoring the migrant workers' contribution.
He emphasized upcoming initiatives, such as the introduction of e-passports for expatriates, a move designed to streamline the immigration process, reduce bureaucracy, and facilitate easier travel. Migrant workers and airport officials alike have widely praised the initiative.
Chief Adviser also inaugurated a spacious and comfortable waiting lounge on the second floor of the multilevel car parking area at the airport, designed to enhance convenience for expatriates and their families.
The initiative aims to accommodate expatriate workers and their companions who often arrive at the airport well ahead of their scheduled flight time, particularly those traveling from remote areas of the country.
The new waiting lounge offers a range of amenities, including dedicated waiting areas, a baby care room, separate prayer spaces for men and women, and a reasonably-priced cafeteria.
Elevating Expatriate Welfare:
Civil Aviation Authority has asked all airport staff to serve the esteemed expatriate workers with utmost respect and sincerity. It asked the staff to address the expatriates with 'Sir' and ensure a hassle-free service for all.
Over 40 airlines, government ministries, and private organizations are involved with this transformation, said Bangladesh Civil Aviation Authority (CAAB) chairman Air Vice Marshal Md Monjur Kabir Bhuiyan.
There is still work to be done to ensure the highest standards for our passengers, especially our expatriates, he said.
Luggage Delivery within One Hour:
HSIA's new measures ensured over 88 percent of luggage delivery within 15 to 55 minutes and appearing of the luggage on the conveyor belt within 18 minutes of a flight's arrival. This marks a dramatic reduction in waiting times, a chronic issue for travelers.
"Ensuring that passengers receive their luggage within a reasonable timeframe has been a major priority for us," HSIA's Executive Director Group Captain Kamrul Islam said.
Testimony from the field:
Jahangir Alam, a returnee from Saudi Arabia shared his experience with BSS saying, the changes are tangible. After completing immigration, I found my luggage already on the belt."
In the past, we had to wait for hours for my luggage. Now, the process is much faster," he said.
Mahbub Hossain, a US-based Bangladeshi expatriate also echoed the same sentiment, saying, "I was able to leave the airport in no time. It was a refreshing change from the delays and hassles that I had experienced during my past visits."
Enhanced Airport Security:
Another key focus for HSIA was enhancing airport security. Stricter measures, increased vigilance, and advanced technology have all contributed to creating a safer and more secure travel environment.
The Bangladesh Air Force (BAF), in coordination with the existing Civil Aviation Authority's Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel, has made a notable contribution to enhancing security and facilitation services at the airport.
This collaboration aims to ensure full compliance with ICAO Annex 17 and Annex 9 standards, further boosting safety and efficiency.
Additionally, the immigration department has transitioned from a three-shift to a four-shift duty schedule, significantly improving the passenger experience for both arrivals and departures by reducing wait times and streamlining immigration procedures.
The airport has introduced 26 automated e-gates, streamlining immigration processes and significantly reducing passengers' waiting times.
"The automated e-gates are just one example of how we are modernizing our services to meet international standards," according to CAAB chairman.
More Innovations:
Beyond the expatriate lounge and luggage handling improvements, HSIA has introduced several other innovations designed to enhance passenger convenience and comfort.
One of the innovations is introducing a 24-hour hotline and a new web portal to allow passengers to easily access assistance and resolve complaints by calling the 13600 hotline anytime. Up-to-date information is also available on the website.
Free Wi-Fi internet service has been introduced for passengers to stay connected, especially if they do not have a local SIM card, allowing communication through platforms like WhatsApp.
Ten free telephone booths have been set up to facilitate free calls and communication for passengers.
Commitment to Hygiene:
Steps were taken to ensure a high standard of cleanliness and hygiene among 450 personnel working in three shifts to keep the premises spotless. Mosquito control measures, including larvicide spraying and the release of fish to manage larvae in water bodies, demonstrate HSIA's commitment to a hygienic and comfortable environment for travelers.
Looking to the Future:
As HSIA prepares for the future, including the expansion of Terminal 3 with 26 additional boarding bridges and other world-class facilities, there is a sense of optimism about what lies ahead.
"Our vision is to transform HSIA into a hub that not only meets but exceeds international standards," the CAAB chairman said.
"We are proud of what we have achieved in these 100 days, but this is just the beginning. Our commitment to innovation and service excellence will continue to drive progress," he said.
Source: BSS
Gold Prices Drop in Four Consecutive Terms
Bangladesh Jewellers Association (BAJUS) has reduced the price of gold 4 times out of the last five price adjustments in the country's market. The total price has been reduced to Tk9,017 in four consecutive rounds.
BAJUS reduced the price of gold last Thursday (November 14). This time, the organization has reduced the price by Tk1,680 of 22-carat gold to Tk1,34,509.
According to the notification issued on Thursday (November 14) evening, the price of pure gold has decreased in the local market. As a result, the new price of gold has been fixed considering the overall situation. The new prices will be effective from Friday (November 15).
According to the new prices, per bhori (11.664 grams) of 22-carat gold will cost Tk1,34,509. Apart from this, the price of gold has been set at Tk1,28,397 per 21-carat, Tk1,10,062 per 18-carat, and Tk90,233 per bhori of traditional method gold.
In the notification, BAJUS also said that the selling price of gold must be added to the government-mandated 5 percent VAT and BAJUS-mandated minimum wage of 6 percent. However, the wages may vary depending on the design and quality of the jewelry.
Earlier, BAJUS last adjusted the price of gold in the domestic market on November 12. At that time, the organization reduced the price by Tk2,519 to Tk1,36,189 per bhori of 22-carat gold. Apart from this, the price of gold was fixed at Tk1,29,995 per 21 carat, Tk1,11,426 per 18 carat, and Tk91,411 per traditional method gold which came into effect from 13 November.
It should be noted that the price of gold has been adjusted 49 times in the country's market so far this year where the price has been increased 28 times, and reduced 21 times.
'Nabanna Utsab' Being Celebrated at Charukala
Today is 'Nabanna Utsab'. It is celebrated on the first day of the Bangla month of Agrahayan. Nabanna Utsab is a Bengali festival of harvesting new crops. Today (November 16), Nabanna Utsab is being observed amid festivity and fervor across the country.
The day is very significant for farmers of the country as they start harvesting new crops on the very first day of the Bengali month of Agrahayan after waiting for months.
The festival of bringing new crops home has been celebrated for centuries and has become an integral part of the tradition and culture.
Several programs are organized in the city including a cultural function at Bakultala of the Fine Arts Faculty at Dhaka University. With playing the flute from 7:30 in the morning, the festival begins and will continue till night. Bakultala of fine arts has become cheerful with Pithapuli, colorful costumes, mesmerizing sound of flutes, dance, songs, and so on.
Nabanna Utsab has been organized this year also under the motto 'Eso Mili Shobe Nabanna Utsab E'.
Nabanna Utsab is divided into two parts this year. The first part of the ceremony will continue from morning to noon. The performance of the second part will continue from 2 pm to 8:30 pm. Various organizations are presenting their content.
Jatiya Nabanna Utsab Udjapan Parishad, the celebration committee of the festival, organized the cultural function where artists performed folk songs, Lalon geeti, Tagore songs and dance to welcome the first day of Agrahayan.
Poets, painters, musicians, bauls, and people from all walks of life gathered on the university campus to celebrate the festival.
'Pope Francis Yunus 3Zero Club' launched in Rome
Pope Francis, the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church, and Bangladesh Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus have jointly launched a "Pope Francis Yunus 3Zero Club" in Rome to usher in a transformative and inclusive future for humanity.
This information was reported by the Press Wing of the Chief Adviser on Saturday (November 16).
The '3 Zero Club' is a beacon of hope for young people from marginalized communities in Rome, providing a platform to develop innovative ideas, and create concrete and sustainable solutions.
In a letter written to the Vicar General of Rome, Cardinal Baldo Reina, the chief adviser Muhammad Yunus said that he was "deeply honored" by the initiative. He congratulated Cardinal Reyna for this.
The 2006 Nobel laureate said, "This extraordinary initiative embodies the shared vision of His Holiness Pope Francis and my own desire for a transformative and inclusive future."
Dr Muhammad Yunus further said that this initiative is not only aimed at achieving zero poverty, zero unemployment, and zero net carbon emissions but also to encourage the emergence of a new civilization.
According to a recent count, there are at least 4,600 Three Zero Clubs around the world, all inspired by Professor Yunus' vision for a new civilization. Many clubs have been established in the university.
Rohingya Crisis Prolonged by Neighbors’ Interests: Adviser
The interim government’s Foreign Affairs Adviser, Md. Touhid Hossain, stated that the Rohingya crisis is being prolonged due to the vested interests of neighboring states.
He made this remark on Saturday (November 16) while speaking at the inaugural session of the international conference titled Bay of Bengal Conversation 2024, held at a hotel in the capital. The event was organized by the Center for Governance Studies (CGS), a private research institute.
Highlighting the importance of the Bay of Bengal for Bangladesh in various contexts, including the Rohingya issue, Md. Touhid Hossain said that apart from Bangladesh, India, the United States, and China have distinct strategic interests tied to the Bay of Bengal. Over the past eight years, the assistance received from major neighbors in resolving this crisis has been less than expected.
He remarked, “I see this issue with our neighbors this way: because of their own interests, they have not stepped forward to help resolve this problem. As a result, this crisis has become a significant burden for us. It will not remain a threat only to Bangladesh; it will spread elsewhere too.”
Addressing why China has not extended its support to Bangladesh in this matter, the adviser noted, “One may question why China hasn’t come forward to stand by Bangladesh. The reason can be that Myanmar is much more important to China for ensuring access to the Bay of Bengal. Similarly, India sees Myanmar’s Kaladan Project as crucial for connecting its northeastern states. Therefore, maintaining a good relationship with Myanmar is imperative for India.”
Considering the overall scenario, he commented that there is little hope of a quick resolution to the Rohingya crisis. “In this context, I can say that we have become victims of circumstances. Without blaming anyone, I would say that everyone prioritizes their own interests. This is why the Rohingya crisis is being prolonged. There is no light at the end of the tunnel suggesting that the Rohingya crisis will be resolved easily or anytime soon. If the Rohingya crisis remains unresolved, it will eventually become a global issue.”
The Foreign Affairs Adviser also observed that people have high expectations from the interim government, but their patience is very limited. “Every change takes time to yield results. I believe that solving various issues requires a bit more patience from us. Politicians, the younger generation, and all segments of society need to cultivate this patience.”
Today Marks the Death Anniversary of Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani
Sunday, November 17, commemorates the 48th death anniversary of the "leader of the downtrodden" (Majlum Jananeta) Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani. He passed away on this day in 1976 while undergoing treatment at the then PG Hospital (now Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University) in Dhaka. He was laid to rest in Santosh, Tangail. To honor his memory, elaborate programs have been organized in Dhaka and Tangail.
Maulana Bhashani was born on December 12, 1880, in Dhangara village of Sirajganj district. Nicknamed "Chega Mia," he was also widely known as "Red Maulana." Though born in Sirajganj, he spent most of his life in Santosh, Tangail. From his youth, he was deeply involved in politics and served as an advisor to the exiled government during Bangladesh's Liberation War.
A prominent figure in politics from an early age, Maulana Bhashani held significant roles, including serving as the president of the Bengal-Assam Provincial Muslim League for many years. He was one of the key leaders in forming the United Front in the 1954 elections and served as the head of the advisory council of the exiled government during the Liberation War.
Throughout his long political career, Maulana Bhashani championed the rights and welfare of the deprived, neglected, and working-class people. During times of national crisis, he united the people to lead formidable movements. Despite holding power, he was never seduced by it, maintaining a life of simplicity and humility while prioritizing national interests over personal gain.
Bhashani dedicated his life to fighting for a progressive, democratic, secular Bangladesh free from exploitation and oppression. He shared ideological unity and political camaraderie with Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, making a significant contribution to the development of Bengali national identity.
To commemorate this legendary leader's death anniversary, a series of events will take place. At 7:30 AM, Professor Dr. Md. Anwarul Azim Akhand, Vice-Chancellor of Maulana Bhashani Science and Technology University, will lay a wreath at his mausoleum. At 8:00 AM, food offerings will be distributed in the mausoleum premises.
Later, at 11:00 AM, a seminar will be held in the seminar room of the university's 12-story academic building. After the Zuhr prayer, a special prayer session will be conducted at the central mosque of the university. Leaders from various political parties are also expected to visit his mausoleum in Santosh to pay their respects.
