United News of Bangladesh

Discrepancies have shown up in the results of the Supreme Court Bar Association’s election for 2024-25, announced past midnight on Saturday, following tremendous controversy that arose around the vote counting over the weekend. Votes were cast on Wednesday and Thursday.  Now it emerges that the voting tallies announced by senior advocate Abul Khair, convenor of the SCBA’s election sub-committee, do not match the reported number of votes cast. Specifically, they exceed the number of votes cast, 5319, that was reported widely across the media on Thursday and Friday. Talking to UNB on Monday morning, Advocate Abul Khair denied ever disclosing the number of votes cast in the election, even though a number of outlets did quote him as the source of that information. UNB was not among them. “You will find no such announcement in my voice,” he asserted.  There was also no objection from the SCBA to the reported number of votes cast, till the discrepancies came to light. Some outlets have continued reporting the 5319 figure even after the results were announced, seemingly oblivious to any discrepancy.  “Even if someone from the committee said so, it was wrong. The number of votes cast is what came out in the final announcement,” he said, without disclosing the number. A video of the final announcement can be found on the SCBA's Facebook page. In it, we find that Advocate Abul Khair starts off by commenting on the controversy surrounding the election, and what they had to go through in order to overcome it. He then proceeds to announce the names of the candidates elected as members, without offering their vote tallies. SCBA election: Khokon, Monjurul elected president, secretary After reporters present at the auditorium insist on hearing the vote tallies, Advocate Khair does start announcing them for the more important positions.  Once he gets to the important post of secretary, for which there were four candidates, he announces: “Number 1 on the ballot Farhaduddin Bhuiyan won 60 votes. Number 2 Ruhul Quddus Kajol won 1702 votes. Third on the ball Nahid Sultana Juthi won 269 votes. Fourth on the ballot Shah Manjurul Haque won 3319 votes.” He then proceeds to declare Shah Manjurul Haque, from the pro-Awami League Bangabandhu Awami Ainjibi Parishad (White Panel), the winner of the election for the secretary post. But using a calculator, we find that the votes announced in each candidate’s favour add up to 5350, exceeding the reported number of votes cast by 31.  Coming to the president’s post, which also had four candidates, Advocate Abul Khair started in reverse order this time: “Ballot number four, MK Rahman, got 229 votes. Third on the ballot, Eunus Ali Akhond, got 46 votes. Number 1 on the ballot, Abu Sayeed Shagor received 2539 votes. And number 2 on the ballot, one who is always lucky in the voting, Mahbubuddin Khokon, received 2622 votes.” He then proceeds to declare Khokon, from the the pro-BNP Jatiyatabadi Ainjibi Forum (Blue Panel), the winner of the president’s post.  But if you add up the votes declared on each candidate’s behalf, they add up to 5436 - 117 more than the reported votes cast. This is especially significant because in the vote for president, the margin of victory was just 83 votes.  The total size of the electorate for the SCBA election was 7883. Although Advocate Abul Khair is now denying it, reportedly 3261 lawyers voted on the first day of polling, on Wednesday, March 6. Another 2058 cast their votes on Thursday, for a total of 5319. Case filed against 24 pro-BNP lawyers over scuffle at SCBA iftar party The aggregated votes of the candidates in an election can never exceed the number of votes cast.  That brings us to another discrepancy. On Sunday, while answering an unrelated question, Advocate Abul Khair told a private television channel that not a single ballot was found where a vote was cast for president, but not for secretary. This video can still be found on the internet.  If that is correct, the number of votes cast in total for secretary and president should be equal. But that is not the case. As we've seen, the number of votes cast for president was 5436, while for secretary it was 5350.  When this was put to Advocate Abul Khair, he said the votes were cast, but they must have been disqualified as ‘invalid’.  “For example, they may have double-crossed the name of their chosen candidate for secretary, instead of ticking it,” he said.  Even though they followed the correct method in their vote for president, on the same ballot? “Yes, it happens,” he said.   He was loath to disclose the number of invalid votes, saying they kept no account of it, and that although everything has been preserved, they were now sealed for security purposes. Finding out would require unsealing them, he said. “There were invalid votes for president also,” he added. So how many votes were actually cast in the election? “For now we can only say the number of votes cast for each post," Advocate Khair said, without quoting any numbers. "There is no scope to declare an overall total. And the number of votes cast for each post was the total that came out during the announcement on Saturday night.” Barring the ‘invalid’ ones, of course. 

Three assistant attorney generals have been relieved from their posts in connection with scuffle centering the counting of votes in the Supreme Court Bar Association election. Their appointment was cancelled through a notification issued on Sunday signed by solicitor Runa Nahid Akhter as per the order of the President. The three assistant attorneys general are Md Zakir Hossain, Kazi Bashir Ahmed and Shyama Akhter. Of the three assistant attorney generals, Md Zakir Hossain and Kazi Bashir Ahmed are accused in a case filed by assistant attorney general Saifur Rahman Chowdhury Saif, who was injured in an attack over the counting of votes in the Supreme Court Bar Association election. SCBA elections: Pro-BNP lawyer Barrister Kajol put on 4-day remand An unexpected scenario was created over the announcement of the results of the two-day election of the Supreme Court Bar Association held peacefully on March 6 and 7. Nahid Sultana Juthi, the secretary candidate, was vocal in favor of counting votes on Thursday night while Awami League-backed secretary candidate Monjurul Haque wanted to count the votes in 'daylight' at 3pm on Friday. An altercation began between the supporters of both sides and a clash took place in the early hours of Friday and a video of attacking an assistant attorney general went viral. Assistant Attorney General Md Saifur Rahman Siddique filed a case against 20 named lawyers including BNP-backed candidate Barrister Ruhul Kuddus Kajol and independent candidate Nahid Sultana Juthi and 30-40 unnamed lawyers in connection with assault and vandalism during the SCBA election on March 8. Case filed against 24 pro-BNP lawyers over scuffle at SCBA iftar party Police arrested Barrister Osman Chowdhury on Friday night. Detective Branch (DB) of police raided the house of Nahid Sultana and arrested several people. The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of police arrested Barrister Ruhul Kuddus Kajol on Saturday evening. Later, a Dhaka court placed Kajol on a four-day remand. Five lawyers including Kazi Bashir Ahmed, Tushar, Tariqul, Enamul Haque Sumon and Barrister Osman Chowdhury were placed on  a 3-day remand in the case on Saturday.

Prime Minister’s Energy Advisor Dr Tawfiq-e-Elahi Chowdhury has said that the international bidding for offshore oil and gas exploration will draw a huge response. “This round, we have introduced some new aspects like linking gas price with Brent and per year cost recovery at highest 75 percent to make the bidding more attractive,” he told reporters at a press conference at Petrobangla headquarters in Dhaka on Monday. The Energy and Mineral Resources Division organised the press conference to brief about the “Oil and Natural Gas Exploration Under Bangladesh Offshore Bidding Round 2024”, for which Petrobangla invited international oil and gas companies (IOCs). Intensify efforts to scale up renewable energy technology: Energy Advisor State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Nasrul Hamid, Energy Secretary Md Nurul Alam and Petrobangla chairman Zanendra Nath Sarker also addressed the event. The tender notice was published in local newspapers and websites of concerned government entities including Bangladeshi missions abroad on Sunday giving six months’ time until September 9, 2024 for submission of the bids. As per the floated tender, a total of 24 offshore blocks — of which nine are shallow blocks — and 15 deep sea blocks are available for the bidding round. The nine shallow sea blocks are SS-01, 02, 03, 05, 06, 07, 08, 10 and 11) and 15 deep sea blocks are DS-08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21 and 22. Gov wants AIIB to invest more in energy, power sectors: Nasrul The bidder, singly or in association with other companies, can bid for one or more blocks. Contracts will be signed with the successful bidders in line with the Bangladesh Offshore Model Production Sharing Contract 2023, said the tender. Tawfiq Elahi Chowdhury informed that so far, the bidding invitation was sent to 55 IOCs who have contacted the government as potential bidders. He, however, averted a question on the geopolitics that might appear to be a factor in the participation of the IOCs in the bidding round. Nasrul Hamid said it’s an open bidding and any company eligible can bid for any block. He said a pre-bid meeting will be arranged after Ramadan for the interested bidders. Read more: Petrobangla invites offshore bidding for oil, gas exploration

A fire broke out in a shoe factory in Old Dhaka’s Swarighat area on Monday afternoon. The fire started in the factory adjacent to Kamalganj Beribadh around 1:07 pm and engulfed it, said Talha Bin Jasim, station officer of the Fire Service and Civil Defense's media cell. On information, nine firefighting units rushed to the spot to bring the blaze under control.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday asked the doctors in the country to devote more time to research in medical science burying the mentality of doing private practice to just earn money. “We are lagging behind in one sector and that is the research in the medical science. Doctors are engaged in practicing and earning money, and they don't bother to go for research works,” she said. The prime minister was distributing cheques of "Bangabandhu Science and Technology Fellowship," "National Science and Technology (NST) Fellowship" and special research donations among teachers, scientists, researchers and students of different universities. Stand by people, work for them: PM to govt officials The Science and Technology Ministry arranged the programme at Prime Minister Office. Hasina asked the doctors among the audience about the facts of private practicing of the physicians. “It is correct. There are doctors over there, and I am asking them directly,” she said. The prime minister requested them to put emphasis on research works from now on. “Importance has to be given on the research works. Keep vigil against dishonest business people during Ramadan: PM asks RAB Because the people of the country have to be healthy, strong and meritorious. They need to get chance to flourish their merits. For that research is essential,” she added. She said that the government will give special stimulus package to those who will be involved in heath related research. “I will again request the doctors who are in public service to reduce their private practice and give more time in research works,” she said. She said that the government will do everything whatever needed to encourage research works. PM Hasina mentioned about the outcome of research works in agricultural sector where the country became self sufficient in food production. “Research opens the door of development. We have to put highest importance on science and health related researches,” she said. The prime minister said that the government is very much sincere to remove all sorts of obstacles in any kind of research. She also mentioned that the money invested for the research is coming from the pocket of the mass people of the country. “These public money must have to be used for the welfare of the people. You have to keep this in mind always,” she said. Talking about the second nuclear power plant, the prime minister said that the government has built Ruppur Nuclear Power Plant and it had tried to build another one in the southern region of the country. “But the soil in the southern region is so soft. We have tested soil in every island, but it is not possible to build such plant there,” she said. She mentioned that after completing the present power plant, the government will build the second one also in rooppur. “I have asked the Science and Technology Minister to start the second one just after finishing the first one and we have to take preparation for that from now on,” she said. Science and Technology Minister Architect Yeafesh Osman, chairman of the parliamentary standing committee on Science and Technology Ministry Zahed Maleque and Science and Technology Secretary Md. Ali Hossain also spoke.  

 Kintetsu World Express (KWE), the largest logistic company of Japan, successfully completed one year of operations in Bangladesh.In a closed gathering among the key stakeholders, the Chairman and Regional Managing Director Yasuyuki Tani expressed his sincere gratitude to everyone who supported the establishment.The company now aims to expand further in its forwarding business and also focus on setting up domestic distribution capabilities.

Jahangirnagar University authorities have expelled 7 students including the main accused, Chhatra League leader Mostafizur Rahman, in connection with gang raping a woman after holding her husband captive on the campus last month. The decision was taken on Sunday night in a syndicate meeting held with Vice-Chancellor of the University Dr. Md.Nurul Alam in the chair. University registrar Abu Hasan said according to the decision of the syndicate meeting, Mostafizur Rahman ,the main accused and a  student of the 45th batch of International Relations Department and his cohort Murad Hussain's academic certificates were canceled. Jahangirnagar University's exam irregularities raise concerns among students The expelled students are 46 batch student of International Relations Department Mustafa Manowar Siddiqui Sagar, 44 batch student Shah Paran, 45 batch student Md. Hasanuzzaman and Sabbir Hasan Sagar, a student of 47th batch of Botany department. However, the name of another student among those expelled could not be known. Earlier, in a syndicate meeting on February 4, a four-member investigation committee was formed to identify the culprits and recommend punishment. The inquiry committee was asked to submit its report with recommendations within 15 working days. Earlier on February 2 , a resident of Ashulia was gang raped on the campus after keeping her husband confined to room  No 317 of Mir Mosharraf Hall of the university. Daylong bird fair at Jahangirnagar University Friday A case was filed against six people with Ashulia Police Station. On February 4, four people including  BCL leader Mustafizur were arrested over the incident.  

Dhaka's air quality has been categorised as ‘unhealthy’ this morning. With an air quality index (AQI) score of 176 at 9:01 am, Dhaka ranked 5th on the list of cities worldwide with the worst air quality. Pakistan’s Lahore, India’s Kolkata and Delhi and Nepal’s Kathmandu occupied the first four spots on the list, with AQI scores of 211, 204, 201 and 193, respectively. Dhaka’s air quality 4th worst in the world this morning An AQI between 150 and 200 is considered 'unhealthy', AQI between 201 and 300 is said to be 'very unhealthy', while a reading of 301+ is considered 'hazardous', posing serious health risks to residents. In Bangladesh, the AQI is based on five criteria pollutants -- Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2 and Ozone. Dhaka has long been grappling with air pollution issues. Its air quality usually turns unhealthy in winter and improves during the monsoon. Air pollution consistently ranks among the top risk factors for death and disability worldwide. As cold weather continues, Dhaka’s air quality still ‘unhealthy’ As per the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year, largely as a result of increased mortality from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer and acute respiratory infections.  

ActionAid Bangladesh urged for greater investment to accelerate the empowerment of women in the country, amplifying their rights and opportunities. The call to action came during a program held at the Bangladesh Tourism Corporation auditorium in the capital's Agargaon on Sunday to observe International Women's Day. State Minister for Women and Children Affairs, Simeen Hussain (Rimi), MP, graced the event as the chief guest. The program highlighted the achievements of three women who were awarded the "Nasreen Smriti Padak 2024" in recognition of their exceptional contributions. Emily Hembram was recognized for her efforts in ending sexual harassment, violence, and child marriage; Nasreen Akhter for her leadership in tackling climate change risks and protecting natural resources; and Fahmida Begum for her entrepreneurial spirit. SAFF U-16 Women's Champs: Bangladesh come from behind to beat India on penalties in final The program showcased videos featuring the stories of successful women who have overcome societal obstacles to achieve remarkable accomplishments. Additionally, guests, including State Minister Simin Hossain (Rimi), MP, viewed an exhibit of paintings by young artists. The day's events included an art camp, a prize distribution ceremony, and a panel discussion titled ‘Celebrating Women Leadership: Are We Investing Enough?’ Experts from diverse fields participated in the discussion, highlighting the current situation, challenges, and opportunities for advancing women's equal rights and opportunities through increased investment. Farah Kabir, Country Director of ActionAid Bangladesh, shed light on the organization's contribution to women's development at various levels, from individual to community impact.  She said, ‘ActionAid Bangladesh has consistently advocated for women's progress in the country. The organization plays a leading role in establishing an equal rights-based society, focusing on women's protection, recognition of unpaid work, prevention of gender-based violence, and economic empowerment.  State Minister Simeen Hussain (Rimi), MP, said there is no alternative to increasing investment to ensure sustainable development of women and eliminate gender inequality. Economic empowerment crucial for advancing women’s political leadership: Speakers She stated that, "We have made great strides in women empowerment. But there's still a long way to go and we can’t stop here. Investing in girls should be considered as a necessity, not a priority. We need to increase investment to reduce the gender gap and investments must be ensured for women in the last mile. For the development of women, we need to uplift their education, mental health, physical health as well as the perspective of people. For sustainable development of women in our country, the government and private sector must come forward.’  Officials from the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, government and non-governmental organizations, representatives from ActionAid Bangladesh, young leaders from various sectors, prominent entrepreneurs, and media personnel were present at the event.

After an exciting cook-off, the “MAGGI presents DPS STS Chef Minister 2024” has wrapped up with a Gala event on Saturday, crowning Ishrat Jabin as the proud winner. As the winner, Ishrat received the winner's trophy, a professional certificate, and the grand prize money of BDT 1 lakh. The unique celebration of culinary passion for mothers began last month with a special workshop at the DPS STS Senior School Cafeteria, which received a great response from the loving kitchen queens. The grand gala of the competition, title-sponsored by MAGGI, was held on Saturday at the DPS STS Senior Campus Swimming Pool Area (Level 7). Over 500 mothers from all over Bangladesh came together to make the competition successful. Sheikh Rashid, Executive Chef, Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden; Jesus Nino, Chef, Le Meridien Dhaka; Faria Islam, Manager - Consumer Engagement Service, Nestlé Bangladesh PLC; Tasnia Rahman Shrishti, host, culinary artist (from the RTV program 'Best Ranna Shad'), and the owner of “Shrishti's Food Creation” catering; Jaheda Begum, Head of Food and Beverage Production - National Hotel and Tourism Training Institute, and Manager (5th Grade) – Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation, Ministry of Civil Aviation & Tourism; and Simra Khan, Fitness and Nutrition Coach were the jurors, finding out the best recipe from the many mouthwatering dishes. This is the 2nd arrangement of the DPS STS Chef Minister competition, and it was a memorable event for the participating mothers, as they engaged in conversations and exchanged cooking tips with each other, according to the organizers.