Awami League
4 supporters of Mashrafe fined for breaching electoral code
A mobile court has fined four supporters of Narail-2 constituency Awami League candidate Mashrafe Bin Mortaza for violating the election code of conduct during the campaign.
Md Anisur Rahman, executive magistrate of the mobile court, slapped the penalty on Wednesday night.
11 BNP leaders-activists arrested in Narail
He said that they conducted a drive in Hatir Bagan area of the town on Wednesday night as part of a regular duty in the two constituencies of Narail.
2 dead in motorbike-three wheeler collision in Narail
Four supporters of Mashrafe were fined Tk5,200 for putting stickers of his electoral symbol “boat” on the vehicles, Anisur said.
He said he had also warned them against repeating the offence.
Narail farmer beaten to death in barbaric attack
Even if action can’t be taken now, strong measures will be taken after election: Quader on those whose wealth saw abnormal increase
Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader has said that action will be taken after the election against those whose wealth increased abnormally.
“Even if action cannot be taken at the moment as the government is only conducting routine work, strong measures will be taken after the election,” Quader said in response to a question referring to Transparency International Bangladesh’s (TIB) allegation of discrepancies in the affidavits submitted by the aspirants for the upcoming 12th parliamentary election.
Read: AL Pledges to Expand Modern Urban Facilities to Every Village in Smart Bangladesh
The Awami League general secretary made the remarks at a press conference on contemporary issues at the party’s central office in Dhanmondi this afternoon (December 28, 2023).
In its report, TIB questioned the authenticity of candidates’ income, wealth, loans, and debt disclosed to the Election Commission.
The Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) accused a minister, who remains unnamed, of owning “undisclosed overseas companies” engaged in real estate business abroad, with total assets valued at around Tk 2,312 crore.
Commenting on BNP's movement, Quader said the party has lost the support of the people.
“If there was public support [for BNP’s movement], no party would have to carry out sneak attacks to oust the government,” said the AL general secretary.
Read: In Smart Bangladesh Awami League pledges more safeguards for minorities, end of intolerance
Calling the incidents of violence in different constituencies “isolated,” Obaidul Quader said, "It is normal. No candidate will boycott the election.”
The candidates want to bring voters to the polling centres by convincing them, he said.
In Smart Bangladesh Awami League pledges more safeguards for minorities, end of intolerance
With the determination to make the nation smart, defined as free from dogmatism and anchored in harmony, Awami League has announced its manifesto for the upcoming 12th National Parliamentary Election.
The manifesto, with the slogan “Smart Bangladesh: Visible Development, Increased Employment,” was announced by Awami League President and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today (December 27, 2023) at the Pan Pacific Hotel Sonargaon in Dhaka.
The manifesto focuses on the plans and commitments for ethnic and religious minorities. It outlines the steps the party will take for the communities if it returns to power.
The manifesto not only addresses the next five years but also the vision of developing a prosperous Bangladesh by 2041. In this long-term vision, the lives, traditions, culture, history, and aspirations of ethnic and religious minorities are integrally linked with the development of Bangladesh. The manifesto outlines a clear path for these communities during this extended period, including specific steps to be taken.
The President of the Awami League stated that discriminatory behavior against ethnic and religious minority communities will be eliminated. Prioritized efforts will continue to improve their living standards.
Currently, Bangladesh is home to over 30 lakh people from approximately 45 ethnic minority groups. Their lives, traditions, culture, and history are deeply intertwined with Bangladesh. The Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, recognized equal rights and dignity of all communities, including ethnic and religious minorities, in the Constitution of Bangladesh. In line with this, Awami League continues to eradicate discriminatory behavior against these communities and prioritizes various initiatives to protect their lives, properties, places of worship, autonomy, and improve their living standards.
Read: Bangladesh’s strong position in int’l arena due to AL’s successful foreign policy: PM
In Bangladesh, Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and others can freely practice their religions, as affirmed by the leader of the Awami League.
Development and Progress
Measures have been taken to protect the land, homes, places of worship and other assets of religious and ethnic minorities.
Various programs, including social safety schemes, are being implemented to integrate the people of ethnic minority communities into mainstream development.
Special provisions and opportunities continue for the education and employment of children of underprivileged ethnic minorities and tea garden workers.
Educational and health services for ethnic minorities have been expanded to remote areas, and other infrastructural facilities, including roads and electricity, have been improved.
The government encourages the preservation of the diverse customs and traditions of ethnic minority communities.
To ensure greater political representation and social inclusion, the government has taken positive steps to increase the participation of ethnic minorities in decision-making processes.
Various clauses of the Chittagong Hill Tracts Peace Accord have been delegated to the Regional Council and District Councils, allowing development activities to be planned and implemented, considering local, geographical, and socio-economic contexts.
Special measures have been taken for the development of tourism, food processing, small and medium industries, and traditional cottage industries in the three hill districts. High-value spice cultivation, coffee and cashew nut farming, cotton cultivation, and solar energy initiatives are being implemented for the public's benefit.
Grants for the development of temples, crematoriums, pagodas, and churches continue, along with ongoing programs for the overall welfare of Hindu, Buddhist, and Christian communities through respective religious welfare trusts.
Awami League’s Commitment
Article 23A of the Constitution stipulates that the state will adopt measures to preserve and develop the unique local culture and tradition of the ethnic sects and communities. Initiatives to uphold this constitutional provision will continue.
During the tenure of the Awami League government, the Vested Property Act was amended, and measures were taken to resolve issues related to vested properties. Obstacles in the implementation of the law will be removed.
A National Minority Commission will be formed, and a special protection law for minorities will be enacted to safeguard the interests of minority communities. Awami League will continue to take necessary steps to ensure the safety and livelihood of religious and ethnic minorities, and underprivileged communities.
Read: Rangpur abuzz with excitement in anticipation of PM's electioneering
During the BNP-Jamaat alliance government, religious and ethnic minorities faced brutal attacks and discrimination. Many from these communities were killed, numerous women were raped, and their homes, lands, and businesses were occupied and looted. Awami League will complete the judicial process for these inhumane incidents and prevent their recurrence.
Awami League will maintain its policy of ending terrorism, discriminatory behavior, and human rights violations against religious and ethnic minorities. It will ensure the protection of their lives, properties, dignity, and equal rights in all spheres of state and social life.
Priority will be given to the balanced development of underdeveloped areas, including slums, chars, haors, and coastal regions, and to improving the quality of life of their inhabitants.
Neglected Communities
A portion of Bangladesh's population consists of Dalits, Harijans, and Bede communities. These communities are neglected, isolated, and overlooked in society. Awami League is committed to implementing programs to improve their living standards and integrate them into the mainstream.
Social safety programs for the development of the living standards of the Bede and other underprivileged communities will continue. Vocational training will be provided to enhance their skills, enabling them to engage in income-generating activities and integrate into mainstream society. Cash assistance and housing programs for underprivileged communities will be expanded nationwide.
Hijra Community
The Hijra community forms a small part of Bangladesh’s total population. Throughout history, this community has been isolated and neglected. Awami League government has taken various programs to ensure the fundamental rights of the Hijra community and integrate them into mainstream society.
The manifesto states that Hijras will be included in mainstream society, and their fundamental rights will be protected. Social justice will be ensured, along with improvements in education, housing, living standards, and social security.
Awami League’s election manifesto also says that cash assistance and housing programs for the Hijra community will be expanded nationwide.
Read more: Avoid conflict, work peacefully for participation of voters in election: PM Hasina urges candidates
Bangladesh’s strong position in int’l arena due to AL’s successful foreign policy: PM
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said if her party Awami League is re-elected, Bangladesh's development cooperation with all the countries will continue.
“Bangladesh has occupied a strong and prestigious place in the international arena due to the success of Awami League’s foreign policy, following the principle of ‘friendship to all, malice towards none’ as directed by the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman,” she said today while announcing AL’s manifesto for the 12th National Parliamentary Election.
The AL President said cooperation with neighboring countries will continue in various areas, including cross-border communication, transit, energy partnership, and equitable water-sharing.
Read: Come to polling centres early, cast votes for Boat: PM Hasina at Pirganj rally
She said Bangladesh is firmly determined to prevent the presence of militants, international terrorists, and separatist groups on its territory.
The Awami League government will play an important role in forming the South Asia Task Force to combat terrorism and militancy and eliminate them from the entire region, Hasina said.
“We believe in peace, not war,” she said, adding that to enhance the defense capability of the armed forces to protect the security, sovereignty, and integrity of the country, the formulation and implementation of ‘Forces Goal-2030’ is ongoing in light of the ‘Defense Policy, 1974’ formulated by the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
Read: Bangladesh and Kosovo can boost bilateral trade: PM tells outgoing envoy
She said the efficiency and discipline of the defense forces will continue to improve, and management will continue to develop in light of Forces Goal 2030.
Hasina said necessary measures will continue to be taken to increase the professional skills of the officers and soldiers of the armed forces and their job opportunities according to the country's capability.
“To ensure the security of the country and the people, the capacity building of the defense system will continue. New welfare-oriented schemes and programs will be taken up for all ranks of the armed forces,” PM Hasina said.
Read more: In Smart Bangladesh Awami League pledges more safeguards for minorities, end of intolerance
Food for All: AL Manifesto Emphasizes Agricultural Development for a Hunger-Free Bangladesh
"Food for All" is the core goal and commitment of the Awami League. The manifesto pledges to build a hunger-free Bangladesh. On Wednesday (December 27), the Awami League announced this manifesto for the 12th national parliamentary election.
Agriculture is a primary driving force of Bangladesh's economy and livelihoods. Agriculture plays a crucial role not only in fulfilling the food and nutritional needs of the population but also in providing employment in rural areas, supplying raw materials to industries, and increasing export earnings. Following independence, Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, initiated an agricultural revolution by taking ground-breaking steps to enhance production and ensure food security, giving utmost importance to the development of agriculture and farmers. Currently, under the leadership of Bangabandhu's daughter, Sheikh Hasina, the Awami League government also prioritizes agriculture in state governance. With the commitment of "Food for All," the party emphasizes agricultural development in its manifesto for the 12th national parliamentary election.
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In the fiscal year 2022-23, rice production surpassed all previous records. Currently, Bangladesh ranks third globally in the production of rice, vegetables, and onions. Additionally, it holds the second position in jute production, fourth in tea, and seventh in potato production. Significant progress has been made in cultivating both domestic and foreign fruits. Farmers are encouraged to cultivate profitable but unconventional crops like coffee, cashew nuts, black pepper, malta (a type of citrus), and dragon fruit. The per capita fruit consumption rate, which was 55 grams in 2006, increased to 85 grams in 2023. In the last 15 years, 699 new crop varieties resilient to adverse environments and 708 technologies have been developed. The mechanization of agriculture is underway to modernize it. From 2010 to 2023, nearly 133,000 agricultural machineries, including combine harvesters, reapers, seeders, and power tillers, have been distributed to farmers at subsidized prices. A 3,000 crore taka agricultural mechanization project is ongoing. Overall, the country's agricultural system is transitioning from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture.
AL to announce election manifesto Wednesday
To maintain this trend, the Awami League, led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, pledges to follow sustainable development strategies based on planned initiatives. The strategy aims to meet the growing population's nutritional needs, ensure the supply and accessibility of nutritious food for all, develop commercial agriculture, expand agriculture-dependent industries, improve rural infrastructure, increase and diversify exports of agricultural and non-agricultural products, and enhance the quality of life in rural communities through poverty alleviation. The annual budget allocation will be increased, and private investment in the rural sector will be encouraged.
Awami League’s Commitment
"Food for All" remains the Awami League's primary goal and commitment. The trend of following sustainable development strategies, based on a contextualized plan for the development of agriculture, farmers, and the rural economy, will continue. The strategy includes ensuring nutrition for the growing population, supplying and accessing nutritious food for everyone, developing commercial agriculture, expanding agriculture-dependent industries, improving rural infrastructure, increasing and diversifying exports of agricultural and non-agricultural products, and enhancing the living standards of rural communities through poverty alleviation. The annual budget allocation will be increased, and private investment in the rural sector will be encouraged.
The daughter of Bangabandhu pledges to expand the initiatives already taken to increase agricultural production. The provision of agricultural loans at 4% concessional interest will continue; the central bank will refinance commercial banks at a 0.5% rate, encouraging them to distribute more agricultural loans. The Awami League will continue to provide assistance and subsidies for agricultural production and investment in agricultural inputs. Easy access to and availability of agricultural machinery will be ensured to alleviate labor shortages in agriculture and increase productivity. Subsidies on agricultural machinery will continue.
The Awami League government has already implemented a policy to bring all land under cultivation to further increase agricultural production. Sheikh Hasina's commitment is that no land will remain uncultivated. Emphasis will be placed on developing an integrated agricultural system.
Furthermore, to build a smart, agriculture-dependent Bangladesh, strategies will be adopted for commercial agriculture, biotechnology, genetic engineering, robotics, artificial intelligence, and nano-technologies, as well as for developing the rural non-agricultural sector and facing globalization challenges. The focus on modernizing agriculture, innovating technology, and increasing opportunities and facilities for agricultural research will continue. Environmental protection will also be seriously considered in the use of various products in agriculture.
Read more: Govt prepared to ensure food security into the future: Agriculture Minister
Not only agriculture, but also the fisheries and livestock sectors are immensely important for ensuring food security, meeting nutritional needs, creating employment, alleviating poverty, expanding export trade, and overall socio-economic development in Bangladesh. To meet the animal protein demand of the growing population, create entrepreneurs and employment, and keep the rural economy active, Sheikh Hasina's government is also giving equal importance to the fisheries and livestock sectors. The Awami League's commitments in this continuity are:
1. To increase the productivity of livestock by one and a half times by 2028.
2. To establish commercial dairy and poultry farms, increase self-employment, and alleviate poverty by providing loans on easy terms, necessary subsidies, technical advice, and policy support.
3. To increase the domestic production of quality animal feed ingredients, expand processing technology, and ensure reasonable prices.
4. To diversify, process, and expand export-oriented industries of animal products.
5. To expand farm mechanization and automated production systems in preparation for the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
6. To increase fish production from 4.915 million metric tons to 5.840 million metric tons and to raise the per capita fish consumption from 67.8 grams/day to 75 grams/day by ensuring sustainable fish production and achieving food security through maximum utilization of resources.
7. To strengthen sustainable management of marine fisheries resources and ensure responsible fishing for the development of the blue economy.
8. To adopt projects/programs based on delta hotspots for coping with the adverse effects of climate change, improving the quality of life of local communities, adaptation, and capacity building.
9. To reduce fish waste by 10% and create employment for about 600,000 people in the next five years by ensuring sustainable use of fish resources through value chain development and diversifying value-added fish and fishery products.
10. To encourage the private sector to increase fish and fishery product exports and expand new markets abroad by organizing Fish Expos and establishing exclusive economic zones for fishery product processing, aiming to increase export earnings from 4,790 crore to 15,000 crore taka.
11. To expand ongoing programs for increasing livestock production and to enhance opportunities and facilities for processing, marketing, and value addition of these products.
12. To continue fish farming in ponds and, where possible, in rice fields by providing quality fish fry, food, and disease treatment.
13. To provide easy access to capital, electricity connections, and other facilities for farmers.
Read more: Food security remains protected amid int’l crisis: PM Hasina tells Parliament
Polls Code Violation: AL Ctg-3 candidate served show-cause notice for second time
The Electoral Enquiry Committee (the ‘Committee’) on Sunday served a show-cause notice on Awami League (AL) nominated candidate of Chattogram-3 (Sandwip upazila) Mahfuzur Rahman Mita for the second time for allegedly breaching the electoral code of conduct.
Penalty for code of conduct violation depends on investigation report: EC Sultana
According to the notice, signed by the chairman of the Committee for the constituency and Chattogram Joint Metropolitan Sessions Judge Mohammad Shahidul Islam, the supporters of the AL-backed candidate made provocative statements at a procession brought out in support of independent candidate Dr Md Jamaluddin Chowdhury at Ali Mia Bazar on December 19.
The supporters of Mita also beat up the followers of Jamal there around 7pm.
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On the same day, the supporters of the ruling party candidate gathered at Enam Nahar Crossing under the constituency with a procession while a roadside rally in support of Jamal was going on around 7:45pm and they made provocative remarks and manhandled the supporters of Jamal.
Stating that Mita did not take proper steps to avoid the incidents, the notice said the ruling party candidate violated the election code of conduct.
Awami League will win all seats in Sylhet, Momen predictsThe accused candidate was asked to respond in person or by his representative at 2:30pm on December 25.
Shakib’s election campaign in Magura in full force
Awami League-nominated candidate for Magura-1, superstar cricketer Shakib Al Hasan, sought all-out support from all for the development of the constituency.
Shakib is busy with election campaign organised by the local unit of Awami League.
Man killed by lynch mob for stealing cattle in Magura
He was seen seeking votes from local voters while visiting villages, unions and areas under the constituency that includes Atharokada, Raghabdair, Moghi union in Sadar upazila.
Massive crowds turned out to see the cricketer while some greeted Shakib with flowers.
Magura district welcomes Shakib warmly as MP candidate
He also urged people to exercise their franchise at the polling stations on January 7.
Magura Returning officer Abu Naser Beg said some 3,99,615 people — 2,00,707 males and 1,98,907 females — are scheduled to exercise their franchise under Magura-1 (Magura-Sripur) constituency.
12th parliamentary election: Shakib gets AL nomination for Magura-1 constituency
Necessary training was provided to the election officials and staff, he said.
Shakib submitted his nomination paper at the office of District Commissioner and District Returning Officer Mohammed Abu Naser Beg in Magura on November 30.
Shakib will contest the parliamentary election for the first time.
Bagerhat's first-time voters: High hopes and expectations for National Election
As the 12th parliamentary election of Bangladesh approaches, a wave of excitement is sweeping through Bagerhat's first-time voters. These new electors are eager to contribute to their nation's progress by electing their preferred representatives. They see this as a chance to influence the country's development and shape the future.
These young voters harbor aspirations for comprehensive progress in their region. Their wish list includes a corruption-free society, a terrorism-free Bangladesh, and development plans focused on youth.
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They're not just excited but also proactive, offering suggestions to advance their area and the nation. They advocate for modernizing the general and technical education systems, improving education quality at all levels, and ensuring essential goods remain affordable for the average citizen. Their focus is also on maintaining a nation free from corruption and terrorism.
In Bagerhat's four constituencies, 28 candidates from various parties, including the Awami League and independents, are vying for seats. The election buzz is palpable in local markets and tea shops, with voters of all ages discussing the candidates. However, it's the new generation whose interest in the election is most pronounced.
During interviews, young male and female voters from different parts of Bagerhat district shared diverse views on the upcoming election.
Bagerhat District Election Officer Sheikh Muhammad Jalal Uddin disclosed that the district's four constituencies have a total voter count of 1,281,241, comprising 644,136 males, 637,097 females, and eight third-gender voters. Notably, there are 168,248 new voters, split almost evenly between males and females.
Emon Sheikh, a college student, emphasized the importance of young candidates, believing they can contribute more to society. His vote will go to a candidate prioritizing education. Sheikh Hussain, another student, stressed the need for better roads, infrastructure, and living standards, alongside educational improvements. Sheikh Saker Mahmud Prince voiced a desire for honest, capable candidates, wary of those who might misuse their positions.
EC going around the country to check election prep at district level
Other young voters like Nazmus Sakib, Biplob, Alamin, and Monica highlighted the need for youth-focused initiatives and job creation. They believe in harnessing the power of educated youth and fostering patriotism among citizens.
With high hopes and clear expectations, Bagerhat's new voters are set to play a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape of their region and country.
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BNP leaders from top to bottom are leaving the party: Hasan Mahmud
Being annoyed with the BNP’s activities, its leaders from top to bottom are leaving the party, said Awami League Joint General Secretaryand Information and Broadcast Ministet Dr Hasan Mahmud on Thursday.
“I have a question to the BNP leaders: why do they do the politics of BNP? The top leader of the party is not allowed to participate in any election whatever it is at union, upazila or national level.”
He made the remarks while talking to journalists at his office at the secretariat on Thursday.
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Regarding the King's parties, Hasan, also Information and Broadcasting Minister, said BNP is the first ‘king’s party’ of the country founded by Ziaur Rahman. “Ziaur Rahman after usurping power formed the BNP through distributing leftovers of power,” he said.
About the recent role of civil society and intellectuals, Dr Hasan said, “We saw different statements of intellectuals with importance. But unfortunately they are silent when the arson attacks are being carried out on public transports and public property. Many people became victims of the arson attacks.”
He said those subversive activities will be stopped when the conscious people, journalists and civil society would raise their voice against them. But it is regrettably true that the so-called civil society didn’t make any statement against the violence of the BNP-Jamaat, he added.
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Dr Hasan said, “I think that the so-called civil society who makes statements from time to time should be identified as opportunists. I would like to urge the journalists to identify them and unmask them.”
Being annoyed with the BNP’s subversive politics, many leaders and workers would leave the party, Hasan Mahmud hoped that the BNP would refrain from such evil politics.
Replying to another query over elections, Hasan said it is not mentioned in the constitution that an election would not be acceptable if a particular political party does not take part in the election.
Many elections were held in Bangladesh in the past where many political parties remained absent, he said, adding even a political party led by a big leader didn’t take part in the 1970's election. "But there was massive participation of the people and the election was accepted."
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The information minister said the BNP and other political parties didn’t take part in city corporation polls. But, the countrymen took part in those polls, he said.
The festivity among the people has already started centring rhe upcoming polls. So there will be a huge participation of the people in the elections slated on January 7, Hasan Mahmud hoped.
Taking action for poll-related violence or chaos is EC’s responsibility : Quader
Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader on Saturday said It is the responsibility of the Election Commission to take action for any violence or chaos centring the national election.
“Awami League has confidence in the decisions of the Election Commission,” he said at a press briefing at the AL president’s Dhanmondi office in the capital.
EC issues show-cause notice to MP candidate Mostafizur for attacking journalists
Quader, also the Road Transport and Bridges Minister, said BNP could not distract people from the election by hartal, blockade and arson terrorism.
“People have become completely election-oriented. There will be a record voter turnout in this election, he said.
53 candidates submit nomination forms in six constituencies of Khulna
“BNP's ill efforts to make the election questionable and prevent it are still continuing. The people of Bangladesh are united under the leadership of Sheikh Hasina. That's why they're looking forward to cast vote,” said the AL leader.
The leaders and activists of the BNP are frustrated and they have lost confidence, he said adding that the people of the country cannot be distracted from the election by hatching conspiracies.
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Awami League Presidium Member Kamrul Islam, Joint General Secretary AFM Bahauddin Nasim and other central leaders were present at the press briefing.