Awami League
Fakhrul’s remark on Benazir “sneaking off”: Quader refers to Tarique Rahman’s lavish lifestyle abroad
Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader today (June 02, 2024) said that authorities will proceed with corruption charges against former police chief Benazir Ahmed. Should he be found guilty, he will be compelled to return to Bangladesh, he said.
Speaking at a press conference at the Awami League president’s office in Dhanmondi this afternoon, Quader emphasized the government’s firm stance against corruption, saying, “No leniency will be shown.”
Quader, who is also the General Secretary of Awami League, detailed that the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) is actively investigating Benazir’s case. “The investigation, legal proceedings, and potential arrests are all part of a legal process,” he said. The government will not bypass the ACC to take any premature actions. If there are any failures within the anti-corruption agencies, they too will face scrutiny, said the AL leader.
Fakhrul questions how Benazir “sneaked off to Singapore”
Highlighting the current administration’s commitment to combating corruption, Quader remarked, “Since 1975, no other government has shown the courage to act against corrupt individuals. Sheikh Hasina’s government has demonstrated this bravery. While individuals may commit corruption, it is the government’s stance against such actions that matters.”
Quader also criticized Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) for its inaction against corruption during its tenure. “BNP didn’t take any measures against corruption while in power,” he said.
Addressing allegations from BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir that Benazir fled abroad with government assistance, Quader retorted, “Who from the government escorted him to the plane? Which authority facilitated his departure? Do not throw around baseless accusations.”
Govt bears responsibility for misdeeds of Aziz, Benazir: Fakhrul
Quader also accused BNP of initiating a culture of financial misconduct. “The culture of money laundering and economic misappropriation began during the BNP’s era. When in power, BNP leaders indulged in rampant illegal earnings. This is an established fact both domestically and internationally. After coming to power in 2001, corruption became institutionalized under the BNP, leading to Bangladesh being named the most corrupt country five times consecutively. Convicted and fugitive BNP leader Tarique Rahman is currently leading a lavish lifestyle abroad with the illicit money.”
Quader read from a written statement at the beginning of the press conference, asserting the integrity of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. “No one can claim that our Prime Minister has engaged in or tolerated corruption. Sheikh Hasina is recognized globally as a thoroughly honest politician, whose popularity stems from her hard work and honest living.”
He further criticized the BNP, saying, “BNP’s main leader Tarique Rahman is a convicted fugitive and a known criminal. A party led by such an individual cannot work for people’s welfare or gain their trust.”
In response to a journalist’s question, Quader remarked, “BNP is ruled by the king of thieves.”
Read more: Why Aziz, Benazir yet to be arrested, asks Manna
Contributing to peace in India’s northeast: PM Hasina highlights efforts to halt arms smuggling
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today (May 25, 2024) said that the Awami League government has taken significant measures to shut down arms smuggling routes through Bangladesh to India, fostering peace in India's northeastern states.
“Since coming to power, the Awami League has closed down the routes used for arms smuggling through Bangladesh,” she stated.
The Prime Minister made these remarks during a program inaugurating various development projects in Old Dhaka, including the construction of a new 10-storey Bangabazar Nagar Wholesale Market. The original market was destroyed by a devastating fire on April 4 last year.
PM Hasina inaugurates construction of new Bangabazar Wholesale Market
The other projects inaugurated include Valiant Freedom Fighter Sheikh Fazlul Haque Moni Sarani (an 8-lane road), Hossain Shaheed Suhrawardy Shishu Udyan, and Nazrul Sarobor.
Prime Minister Hasina emphasized the impact of the Awami League's efforts to curb arms smuggled to various Indian separatist groups, including the United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA).
“As a result, peace prevails in the seven sister states of India. The Awami League has done this, and it is a significant accomplishment,” she added.
The ULFA is an armed militant organization operating in Assam, seeking to establish an independent sovereign nation for the Assamese people through armed struggle. The Government of India banned ULFA in 1990, citing it as a terrorist organization.
Would have been happy to tame the inflation: PM Hasina
The seven sister states of India are Mizoram, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, and Nagaland.
The inauguration program was presided over by LGRD Minister Md Tazul Islam. Dhaka South City Corporation Mayor Barrister Sheikh Fazle Noor Taposh, local MP AFM Bahauddin Nasim, and LGRD Secretary Muhammad Ibrahim also spoke at the event.
Investigation will reveal if MP Anar was involved in wrongdoing in India: Quader
Awami League General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader today (May 23, 2024) said that investigation will determine whether the deceased MP of Jhenaidah-4 constituency, Anwarul Azim Anar, was involved in any illicit activities in India.
“I cannot say anything before the investigation is complete. There is no place for criminals in the Awami League,” Quader asserted.
Bangladeshi MP’s macabre death in Kolkata: What we know so far
He made these remarks during an introductory meeting with the newly formed Youth and Sports Sub-committee members at the Dhaka district Awami League office.
Anwarul Azim Anar, who was nominated for the third time due to his popularity, is under scrutiny following his death, with Indian media alleging his involvement in smuggling activities.
Abduction case filed over MP Anar's death
“Sheikh Hasina does not spare any wrongdoer, even if they are from the party. Her policy regarding crime is zero tolerance,” Quader emphasized.
Quader also questioned the timing and scope of these allegations, saying, “Why did this issue not come up in any investigative report by journalists in our country before his death?”
Locals mourn MP Anar as 'a man of the people'
Donald Lu in Dhaka to "strengthen bilateral cooperation" with Bangladesh
US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Donald Lu arrived here on Tuesday (May 14, 2024) to "strengthen bilateral cooperation" and to demonstrate US support for a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.
In Bangladesh, he will meet with government officials, civil society leaders, and other Bangladeshis to talk about deepening Bangladesh-US cooperation, including deepening the economic ties in ways that the two countries can collaborate further to address climate issues, said Principal Deputy Spokesperson at the US Department of State Vedant Patel.
Lu is here as part of his tri-nation tour of the region. He earlier visited India and Sri Lanka.
This is also his first visit to Bangladesh after Awami League won the January 7 elections to form government for the third straight term.
UK's BII supports MSMEs, women entrepreneurs in Bangladesh with $50m debt commitment to BRAC Bank
"He is there to strengthen bilateral cooperation with each country and to demonstrate U.S. support for a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region," Patel said from Washington.
Age limit for entering govt service to be 35, if Nofel has his way
Education Minister Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury Nofel has recommended that the age limit for entry into government jobs should be pushed back to 35, with another 2 years (37) allowed for quota positions.
The Education Minister has sent a letter to his counterpart, Public Administration Minister Farhad Hossain, with this recommendation.
The age limit for entry into government service is 30 at present (32 under various quotas including freedom fighters, etc).
In the letter, the Education Minister said that the students have been protesting on the streets for a long time regarding the demand to make the age limit of job application minimum 35 years according to international standards.
In 2018, Bangladesh Awami League's election manifesto on page 33 stated that 'proper steps will be taken considering merit and ability to increase the age limit for entry into government jobs'.
Read more: Age limit raised by 3 years and 3 months for entering govt service; not applicable for BCS
It further states, "In reality, the age limit for applying jobs at all levels in Bangladesh was raised from 27 years to 30 years in 1991, 33 years ago, when the average life expectancy of people in Bangladesh was 57 years. At present, the average life expectancy of people in Bangladesh has increased to 73 years, so it is logical to increase the age limit for applying for jobs."
Nofel wrote that the age limit for applying for jobs in about 162 countries of the world is at least 35 years, among South Asian countries, our neighboring country India is the most populous country in the world, but the maximum age limit for applying for jobs is 45 years in different states, 45 years in Maldives, 45 years in Sri Lanka, 35 years in Nepal, 35 years in Afghanistan.
The developed countries of the world, including India, have done a lot of research about the age limit and increased it to about 35 years according to international standards. In order to eliminate unemployment and create a developed smart Bangladesh, it is important to make students skilled at international standards and also to create opportunities to enter the international job market.
In such cases, the maximum age limit for application in all Ministries, Departments, Directorates and Autonomous, Nationalized Institutions at various levels of employment is minimum 35 years as per International Standards (37 years for BJS, Doctors, Freedom Fighters Quota), Sub Inspector of Police and in case of appointment of sergeant, opportunity to participate in examination up to 30 years.
The Education Minister requested the Minister of Public Administration to take necessary steps considering the issue of opening the age limit in research and various special skill fields as per the government policy.
Read more: Police attack age limit protest rally in Shahbagh
Tipu-Prity murder: AL leader Ashraf, 32 others indicted
A Dhaka court on Monday (April 29, 2024) framed charges against 33 accused in case over the killing of Awami League leader Zahidul Islam Tipu and a female college student in Shahjahanpur area around two years back.
The trial in the case began formally through framing the charges.
Dhaka Special Judge Court-Judge Ali Hossain passed the order after rejecting an appeal for excluding the names of the accused from the charges.
The court also set May 21 to record testimony of the witnesses in the case, public prosecutor Md Rafik Uddin said.
On April 25, a hearing on the appeal for exclusion of the accused was held while the court set April 29 for framing the charges against the accused.
3 of a gang arrested for manipulating stock market: DB
Dhaka Metropolitan South unit Organizing Secretary of Awami League Golam Ashraf Talukder, Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) ward councillor and Awami League leader Maruf Ahmed Mansur, expelled president of ward No 10 Jubo League Maruf Reza Sagor, Motijheel Thana unit of Jatiya Party leader Juber Alam Khan Robin, former convenor of Habibullah Bahar College unit Chhatra League Sohel Shahriar, former general secretary of Motijheel Thana unit of Chhatra League Khairul Islam Matbor and former president of ward No-11 unit of Jubo League Kamruzzaman Babu, Sumon Shikder Musa, Masum Muhammad Akash were among the accused.
On the night of March 24, Tipu, who was on a microbus, and Samia Afrin Priti, a 22-year-old college student, who was returning home on a cycle rickshaw were killed in firing in front of Islami Bank Hospital at Shahjahanpur in Dhaka.
Tipu was a former general secretary of the AL Motijheel committee and Priti was a student of Begum Badrunnesa Government College. Tipu’s driver was also injured in the firing.
They were all stuck in a traffic jam in the area when a biker wearing a helmet and a mask appeared from nowhere and fired at them.
HC wants to know the number of Rohingya voters in Cox’s Bazar
The next day, a case was filed against unidentified people over the double murder.
On June 5 last year, the investigation office of the case submitted a charge sheet against 33 people.
Rizvi says ‘India out’ campaign people’s protest against the country’s influence in Bangladesh’s political landscape
In a fervent critique of the ruling Awami League (AL), BNP's Senior Joint Secretary General, Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, charged the government with sacrificing the nation's independence and dignity in exchange for support from the Indian government. Rizvi’s allegations were made during a press briefing at the BNP’s central office in Nayapaltan on Wednesday (March 20, 2024).
Rizvi claimed that AL does not seek the mandate of the Bangladeshi people, instead “clinging to power through the backing of the Modi government and entering into bonds of subjugation.”
He further accused the AL of perceiving Bangladesh as a “dummy state,” alleging that the real power behind the AL is not the people of Bangladesh but India. By supporting the Awami League, India is exercising control over Bangladesh, infringing upon the rights of its citizens,” Rizvi added.
Read more: Law Ministry for extending Khaleda’s jail term suspension by 6 months
Highlighting concerns over foreign influence, Rizvi said, “It is believed that India dictates the appointments of crucial positions like the chief of Bangladesh Police and BGB, undermining our sovereignty.”
Rizvi also pointed to statements made by Indian foreign ministry officials expressing support for the Awami League ahead of the January 7 national election. “The notion of our sovereignty is being compromised under the guise of stability under Sheikh Hasina’s leadership,” he stated.
The BNP leader criticized the Awami League’s acceptance of India’s alleged dominance, declaring that “people of Bangladesh will never accept the supremacy of India, even if the AL leaders have.” He clarified that the BNP's dispute lies not with the people of India but with the Indian government’s policies towards Bangladesh.
Rizvi also said the “India out” campaign is gaining momentum in Bangladesh, saying that it is people’s protest against the country’s influence.
Addressing the Awami League’s reaction to the campaign, Rizvi mentioned that AL leader Obaidul Quader found the social media movement “not expedient,” implying discomfort within the ruling party regarding the public’s dissent towards India’s role in Bangladesh’s political landscape.
Read more: BNP leader Amanullah Aman gets bail
Govt investigating whether BNP has connections with syndicates, hoarding: Quader
Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader on Thursday (March 14, 2024) said the government is trying to identify those who are involved in market syndicates and investigating whether BNP has any link to the syndicates and hoarders.
The AL leader said this while speaking at an opinion exchange meeting at the Awami League's central office at Bangabandhu Avenue.
BNP will get more isolated if it continues movement during Ramadan: Quader
Quader, also the Road Transport and Bridges Minister, expressed worries that such syndicates could attempt to destabilise the government and disrupt the progress of the elected government.
Regarding the surge in commodity prices, the minister said the governmen under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is working to bring the commodity prices within the reach of common people.
On the issue of commodity price control, Quader referenced his recent visit to Singapore, where he observed a significant rise in commodity prices.
“Efforts are being made to control prices in our country. The government is not inactive here. The Prime Minister is giving time to deal with the crisis. We have no negligence here. The whole world is facing the rise in gas, fuel and commodity prices. This crisis is also going on in the US, Europe, the other developed countries,” he said.
Responding to questions about the recent hijacking of Bangladeshi ship and crew in Somalia, the minister assured that the Foreign Ministry is engaged in securing their release.
He said 23 crew members have insurance coverage, and efforts are underway to ensure their safe return.
Hasan Mahmud says Ganatantra Mancha attacked police to incite chaos
Regarding the negative impact on relation with the US over the conviction of Dr Yunus, the minister said,” Dr Yunus is a person. I want to who he is in the US. He is a citizen of Bangladesh. Bangladesh has its own law and court and law is equal for all.”
Awami League names reserved seat MPs
The ruling Awami League announced the names of the nominated candidates for the reserved women's seats in the 12th Parliament.
AL General Secretary Obaidul Quader announced the names of 48 candidates after the Parliamentary Nomination Board meeting held in Ganabhaban on Wednesday afternoon.
BNP to remain dysfunctional without change in leadership: Hasan Mahmud
The nominees are Rezia Islam-Panchgarh, Droupadi Devi Agarwar-Thakurgaon, Ashika Sultana-Nilphamari, Rokeya Sultana-Joypurhat, Kohli Quddus-Natore, Zebin Mahbub-Chapainawabganj, Runu Reza-Khulna, Farida Akhtar-Bagerhat, Farzana Sumi-Barguna, Khaleda Bahan-Bhola , Nazneen Nahar-Patuakhali, Farida Yasmin-Narsingdi, Umme Farzana-Mymensingh, Nadia Binte Amin-Netrokona, Mahfuza Sultana Molly-Joypurhat, Parveen Zaman Kalpana-Jhenaidah, Aroma Dutta- Cumilla, Laila Parveen-Satkhira, Begum Mannizaman Sufian-Khulna, Badhura Ahmed Salam-Gopalganj, Shabnam Jahan-Dhaka, Parul Akhtar-Dhaka, Sabera Begum-Dhaka, Shammi Ahmed-Barishal, Nahid Izhar-Dhaka, Jharna Hassan-Faridpur, Fazilatunnessa-Munshiganj, Sahida Tarikh Dipti-Dhaka, Anima Mukti Gomez -Dhaka, Sheikh Anarkali-Dhaka, Masuda Siddique Rozi-Narsingdi, Tarana Halim-Tangail, Begum Shamsunnahar-Tangail, Meher Afroz Chumki-Gazipur, Aparajita-Tangail, Hasina Bari Chowdhury-Dhaka, Najma Akhtar-Gopalganj, Aruna Chakraborty-Sylhet, Faridur Nahar Laili-Laxmipur, Ashrafun Nessa-Laxmipur, Kanan Ara Begum-Noakhali, Shamima Haroon Lubna-Chattogram, Farida Khanam-Noakhali, Delara Yusuf-Chattogram, Wasika Ayesha-Chattogram, Darthi-Rangamati, Sanjida Khanam-Dhaka, Nasima Zaman- Rangpur.
BNP's program is nothing but restarting an old car: Foreign Minister
There are 50 reserved seats for women in Parliament, allocated in a manner where each political party receives one reserved seat for every six general seats won.
According to the provision, the AL secured 48 seats based on its own and its independents' support.
The sale of application forms for the reserved seats began on 6 February at the party's Bangabandhu Avenue central office.
Quader anxious to restore party unity ahead of important AL meeting
The AL sold 1,553 nomination forms for its 48 reserved women's seats.
Obaidul Quader said that they will submit the nomination to the Returning Commissioner of the Election Commission on February 18.
Usurping power AL govt showing arrogance: Rizvi
BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Tuesday alleged that the Awami League government is showing its arrogance after usurping power through the last month’s ‘dummy’ election.
“They (govt) are now showing their arrogance after the farcical dummy election held on January 7 which was turned down by the country’s people. They’re also trying to flaunt the power they've usurped to people,” he said.
BNP leader Moyeen Khan meets Peter Haas
He came up with the remarks before distributing BNP’s leaflets in the city’s Fakirapool area as part of the party’s fresh programme demanding the cancellation of the 12th parliamentary polls and a fresh election under a non-partisan government.
The BNP leader said the country's people have woken up against the government to ensure its fall through a united movement.
“We all must take to the streets together in the movement to demand the cancellation of the dummy election...We have started the leaflet distribution programme with that goal,” he said.
BNP stuck in quicksand of wrong politics: Quader
Referring to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's recent comment that there were many crackdowns on the army and many were sent to the gallows during the tenure of Ziaur Rahman, Rizvi said their party founder did everything through a legal process against those who worked against the army.
“But you (PM) have made military officers disappear. Where is Brigadier General Abdullahil Amaan Azmi? He was subjected to enforced disappearance during the tenure of your government,” he said.
He said that the Awami League government killed about 20,000 leaders and workers of (Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal) JSD and other opposition parties and dissidents in 1972-1975. “Similarly, countless opposition leaders and workers have been killed during the tenure of this regime. Many people, including Ilias Ali and Chowdhury Alam, have been made forcibly disappear."
15 BNP men died in police custody 'for lack of care or torture': Rizvi
Later, Rizvi along with some party leaders and activists distributed leaflets among the pedestrians, shop owners, transport workers and rickshaw pullers in the area.
The leaflet titled 'Save the country, save the people' demanded the cancellation of the January 7 one-sided by-election, the resignation of the Sheikh Hasina government, and the establishment of an impartial election commission under a caretaker government, the release of jailed BNP leaders and activists, including its chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.
As part of the party’s countrywide programme, BNP leaders and workers distributed leaflets in all metropolitan cities on Tuesday also to mount pressure on the government to reduce the prices of essential commodities.
BNP on Sunday announced a six-day fresh programme, including mass contact and leaflet distribution, across the country beginning Tuesday.