World Defense Forum

Sri Lanka pays off entire $200m loan from Bangladesh with $22m interest



Sri Lanka paid off the entire $200 million loan taken from Bangladesh with an additional $22 million as interest.

Confirming this, a central bank official told The Business Standard that last Thursday night, Sri Lanka paid the last installment of $50 million of their loan.

"In total, we received $22 million in interest from Sri Lanka beside the principal loan amount. Sri Lanka has regularly paid interest on loan installments despite delays. Earlier, Sri Lanka had repaid the $150 million principal loan in two installments," he said.

The official added that in the case of extending loans to Sri Lanka, it was stipulated to calculate the interest by adding 2% to the international benchmark, the London Interbank Offer Rate (LIBOR). The Bangladesh Bank has migrated to Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR), as the reference rate replacing LIBOR since September last year.

When Sri Lanka took the loan the reference rate was very low, now it has increased to more than 5%. Due to these reasons the interest income from Sri Lanka has increased. In addition, due to non-payment of loan installments on time, they had to pay higher interest, the officials said.

In August 2021, the Bangladesh Bank disbursed the loan to Sri Lanka through currency swap. A currency swap is the process of taking a loan by depositing the lending country's local currency equivalent to the loan amount.

Sri Lanka was required to pay the interest on the loan every three months.

The repayment period of this loan was scheduled to end in May 2022. Later the repayment period was extended by one year as Sri Lanka could not repay the loan on time.​

Grameen Digital Healthcare Solutions teams up with Bkash to enhance accessibility to healthcare services
FE Online Desk
Published :
Nov 17, 2024 20:22
Updated :
Nov 17, 2024 20:22



Grameen Digital Healthcare Solutions (GDHS) has announced its partnership with bKash, Bangladesh’s leading mobile financial service provider, to enhance accessibility to healthcare services through seamless digital solutions.

This collaboration aims to bridge healthcare and financial services, allowing millions to access health services directly through their mobile devices, according to a press release.

By adding bKash’s reliable payment system to GDHS’s digital healthcare platform, users will experience faster and easier transactions.

This partnership aims to improve payment options in healthcare, allowing patients to pay for consultations, tests, and health products with ease.

This collaboration is an important step in making healthcare services more available across Bangladesh, especially for people in remote and underserved areas. With bKash’s large digital network, GDHS can reach more people, ensuring easy access to essential healthcare services, the release says.

Honoured guests at the agreement event included distinguished leaders such as Dr. Ahmed Armaan Siddiqui, CEO of Grameen Digital Healthcare Solutions, along with other notable figures from Grameen Group. Among them were Kazi Waqar Ahmed (Financial Advisor, Grameen Telecom Trust), Mohammad Solaimun Rasel (Chief Technology Officer, GDHS), Hasibul Hasan (Chief Marketing Officer, GDHS), Taufique Ahmed (Finance Lead, GDHS), and Barrister Ahmed Raquib Malik (Legal & Compliance Lead, GDHS). Representing bKash were Ali Ahmed (Chief Commercial Officer), Hossain Md. Shahidul Haq (EVP & Head of Department Business Finance), Md. Tayab Hossain Chowdhury (General Manager, Merchant Payment), and Faisal Shaheed (EVP & Head of Department, Merchant Payments).​

Indo-Pacific free of dominance underscored
Staff Correspondent 18 November, 2024, 00:00


Speakers attend the plenary session titled ‘Turbulent Waters: Navigating Maritime Security in a Divided Indo-Pacific’ on the second day of the Bay of Bengal Conversation 2024 organised by the Centre for Governance Studies at a hotel in Dhaka on Sunday. | New Age photo

Politicians, academics and officials at a geopolitical conference in Dhaka on Sunday called for a free and open Indo-Pacific without dominance of any individual country while former Mali prime minister Moussa Mara pointed out how unequal the world system was.

They emphasised the need for people-to-people relations to ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

In his special address, Moussa said that inequality between the countries created anger and the situation could last longer since there were global trends to elect leaders mostly against migration and cooperation and also for inequalities in a fractured world.

He also described inequalities among African countries, saying that although they were oil-producing nations, they were facing oil shortage.

He underlined the need for ensuring governance, transparency and accountability.

‘Governance remains the key for all countries, Global South in particular,’ Moussa said while underlining the need for strengthening the United Nations system and reforming the international financial system so that all could be equally benefited.

About Bangladesh’s transition to democracy, he said that it was their hope that Bangladesh would succeed in returning to ‘real democracy, freedom of speech, human rights and holding a free and fair election and become a model for others.

Speaking at plenary session on ‘Turbulent Waters: Navigating Maritime Security in a Divided Indo-Pacific’, acting High Commissioner of Australia to Bangladesh Nardia Simpson said that the challenge today was that these issues were compounded by the fact that they were situated against the backdrop of broader geo-strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific region.

The real challenge, according to the diplomat, was as to how, in this context, countries could contribute to the strategic balance in the Indo Pacific region and build coalitions to foster assurance against these challenges both in terms of the technical aspects of the challenges themselves, but also finding the political will to work together in these challenging times.

‘Our interests remain clear. A region that is peaceful and predictable, that is governed by accepted rules and norms, where all of us can cooperate, trade and thrive, where a larger country does not determine the fate of a smaller country, where each country can pursue its own aspirations, where no country dominates, and no country is dominated,’ the Australian envoy said.

She said that this vision for the region was grounded in sovereignty. ‘Sovereignty, at a fundamental level, is about being able to make your own decisions, and shape your own future,’ Nardia Simpson added.

Bangladesh Institute of Maritime Research and Development director general Syed Misbah Uddin Ahmad said that Bangladesh should revisit its Indo-Pacific Outlook since it was framed ‘hurriedly’ in 2023.

The document envisions ‘a free, open, peaceful, secure and inclusive Indo-Pacific for the shared prosperity for all’.

David Brewster, senior research fellow of National Security College in Australia, Dominique Rakotozafy, former minister of National Defense, Madagascar and Sanjay Kumar Bhardwaj, professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University in India, also addressed the session moderated by Leonardo Paz Neves, researcher at International Intelligence Unit, Getulio Vargas Foundation in Brazil.

The panel discussion explored pressing security issues, such as tensions in the South China Sea and illegal fishing in the Bay of Bengal.

The Indo-Pacific maritime corridors are vital for global trade but increasingly fraught with security challenges, from territorial disputes to piracy and environmental threats, according to the panelists.

They touched upon collaborative approaches, including the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ maritime security initiatives and naval cooperation of the Quad (a grouping of Australia, India, Japan, and the United States), to promote stability in these contested waters and safeguard economic lifelines in a fractured world.

Bangladesh’s interim government chief adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Saturday inaugurated the three-day Bay of Bengal Conversation at a city hotel with Centre for Governance Studies executive director Zillur Rahman in chair.

Around 200 speakers, 300 delegates and 800 participants from 80 nations, representing diverse voices across various sectors and geographies have joined the third edition of the annual geopolitical talks with the theme ‘A Fractured World’ concluding today.​

27 EU envoys to meet Yunus soon
Staff Correspondent 17 November, 2024, 23:49


Interim government chief adviser Muhammad Yunus. | File photo

Interim government chief adviser Muhammad Yunus on Sunday said that 27 ambassadors of all the countries of European Union—20 of them stationed in New Delhi and the rest seven in Dhaka—would meet him in the next few days.

‘Twenty ambassadors from 20 European Union countries based in Delhi along with seven ambassadors from seven countries in Dhaka are coming to Dhaka in the next few days to meet me,’ Yunus said in his televised speech address to the nation marking 100 days of the government.

Three days after the fall of the regime of Sheikh Hasina, who fled the country to India on August 5 amid an unprecedented student-people uprising, Nobel laureate Yunus took office as the chief adviser of the interim government on August 8.

‘Never before did 27 ambassadors from the EU come together to discuss with the government,’ he said.

The reason for this gathering was to express the EU support and to develop high-level cooperation in the economic field, he said, adding that ambassadors from many countries, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Brazil, Turkey, Russia, Finland, Singapore, Libya, have already met him.

‘They have assured me of increasing trade and investment along with various bilateral cooperation,’ he added.

Diplomatic sources said that the move was initiated so that all these diplomats could meet Professor Yunus at a time since the EU diplomats concurrently responsible for Bangladesh were willing to call on him.​

India, US and China have distinct interest in Bay of Bengal: Foreign adviser
Diplomatic Correspondent
Dhaka
Updated: 16 Nov 2024, 20: 57


Foreign affairs adviser Md Touhid Hossain delivered a speech at the "Bay of Bengal Conversation 2024" (Bay of Bengal Dialogue), at a hotel in the capital on 16 November 2024.Prothom Alo

Interim government foreign affairs adviser Md Touhid Hossain said alongside Bangladesh, India, the United States, and China, have distinct interests in the Bay of Bengal.

He also said the Bay of Bengal is very important for Bangladesh due to Rohingyas and other issues.

Over the past eight years, Bangladesh has received less cooperation from its larger neighbor than expected in resolving this crisis, the foreign adviser pointed out.

Foreign affairs adviser made these remarks while speaking at a three-day international conference at a hotel in the capital on Saturday morning.

The non-government think-tank, Center for Governance Studies (CGS), organised the "Bay of Bengal Conversation 2024."

Touhid Hossain said, "I feel our neighbors have not come forward to help us solve the problem as they have their own interests. As a result, this issue has become a heavy burden for us. This will not only be a threat to Bangladesh but will also spread elsewhere."

The foreign affairs adviser said the question may arise as to why China has not come forward to stand beside Bangladesh.

He said, "For China, Myanmar is far more important than Bangladesh in terms of ensuring access to the Bay of Bengal. Similarly, India views the Kaladan project in Myanmar as crucial for accessing its northeastern states. Thus, India has no alternative but to maintain good relations with Myanmar."

The foreign adviser said, "Given this situation, I can say that we have become victims of circumstance. I am not blaming anyone, but everyone is looking out for their own interests. As a result, the Rohingya crisis continues to linger. There is no light at the end of the tunnel, and it seems unlikely that a resolution will come soon. If the crisis is not resolved, it will become an issue for the entire world."

Touhid Hossain also mentioned that the people have high expectations from the interim government, but noted a lack of patience.

Mentioning that it takes time to yield results after every change, he said, "I believe we need more patience to resolve various issues."

He stressed that this patience is needed from politicians, the younger generation, and society as a whole.

Reflecting on the achievements of the interim government over the past 100 days, he said, "Haven't we really achieved anything? In the past, I used to write for newspapers and speak on TV. I knew my limits and never crossed them. Those who lived abroad could speak freely, but those living inside the country could not criticise the government's actions."

"Now, even those inside the country are openly criticising the interim government's steps. I am very happy to see this. This is one achievement we have already made. I hope that with patience, and with the support of all our friends both inside and outside the country, we will be able to fulfill most of the expectations of the younger generation," the foreign adviser added.

Chief adviser of the interim government, Muhammad Yunus delivered the inaugural speech at the conference.

Former Malaysian prime minister Mahathir Mohammad and former Bolivian president Jorge Quiroga delivered video messages.

The event was hosted by CGS executive director Zillur Rahman, with additional speeches by CGS chairperson Monira Khan.​

Govt extends army's magistracy power for two more months
UNB
Updated: 16 Nov 2024, 22: 02


Army men are patrolling in the capital's Kakrail area on 2 November 2024Prothom Alo file photo

The government has extended the magistracy power given to commissioned army officers for another two months (60 days).

The public administration ministry, in a circular issued on Friday, said officers on deputation in Bangladesh Coast Guard and Border Guard Bangladesh will also be able to exercise the magistracy power.

Their jurisdiction for exercising magistracy power will be across the country, the circular said, adding that the 60-day countdown will start from the circular issuance date.

Earlier on 17 September, the government gave the power of magistracy to commissioned army officers for 60 days to improve law and order.​

How digital payments are changing microfinance in Bangladesh
Matiur Rahman
Published :
Nov 12, 2024 14:58
Updated :
Nov 12, 2024 14:58



Bangladesh's financial services landscape has significantly transformed over the past decade, with the rapid shift from traditional cash-based transactions to digital payments. This evolution is particularly pronounced in microfinance, which has long been crucial in addressing financial inclusion, poverty alleviation, and economic empowerment. The rise of digital payments in microfinance marks a paradigm shift as it integrates technology with finance, creating opportunities for increased efficiency, transparency, and access.

Microfinance institutions (MFIs) in Bangladesh have traditionally operated through a network of field officers who would physically collect payments, disburse loans, and provide financial services to borrowers, primarily in cash. The growth of digital infrastructure, the availability of mobile technology, and the expansion of mobile financial services (MFS) have set the stage for the transition from cash to clicks.

Microfinance in Bangladesh has historically relied on cash-based transactions, where loan officers would travel to rural and semi-urban areas to disburse loans and collect payments. While this method effectively reached underserved communities, it was fraught with challenges. The physical handling of cash posed security risks, led to inefficiencies in loan disbursement and repayment, and resulted in delays in processing. Moreover, manual record-keeping increased the likelihood of errors and discrepancies.

Digital transformation refers to integrating digital technologies into all business areas, fundamentally changing how the business operates and delivers value to its customers. In Bangladesh's microfinance context, this transformation is marked by the adoption of mobile banking, online payment systems, digital credit scoring, and data analytics using third-party software for better decision-making. Initially, MFIs relied heavily on manual processes, which were time-consuming and prone to errors. With digitalisation, these processes have become faster, more reliable, and more transparent.

The advent of digital payments, primarily through mobile banking services such as bKash, Rocket, Nagad, and others, has enabled a fundamental shift. Microfinance institutions can now offer services digitally, allowing borrowers to receive loans and repay them through mobile devices. This transition has made transactions faster, more secure, and more transparent. Borrowers no longer need to wait for field officers to visit them, and loan officers can spend more time on activities such as customer support and financial education rather than cash handling.

A report by the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) of 2019 mentioned that nearly all microfinance organisations in Bangladesh have embraced digitalisation, with only a few exceptions. Most institutions rely on loan management system solutions that integrate data from other applications, such as financial information systems (FIS), management information systems (MIS), and human resource information systems.

Many of these microfinance institutions (MFIs) use third-party loan management solutions provided by companies like Grameen Communication, Datasoft, and Benchmark. Around 75 per cent of organisations have implemented centralised, web-based, real-time loan management systems, with 81per cent utilising third-party services. Only 18 per cent of institutions have digitalised their loan disbursement and repayment processes, and 19 per cent have adopted cashless systems for loan disbursement, repayment, and savings collection.

While all institutions use financial accounting software, 81 per cent have integrated human resource information systems, and 38 per cent use inventory and asset management systems. Despite these advancements, a survey revealed that 77 per cent of institutions have yet to make immediate plans to implement artificial intelligence in their operations.

However, reviewed literature revealed that approximately 60 per cent of the microfinance transactions in Bangladesh have transitioned to digital platforms. This shift was primarily driven by the rapid expansion of mobile financial services and the increased penetration of smartphones, particularly in rural areas. The shift to digital payments has been most prominent among younger borrowers and urban microfinance clients. At the same time, traditional cash-based methods continue to hold sway in more remote and less technologically connected regions.

This figure highlights the shift toward digitalisation, with more than half of all microfinance transactions conducted via digital platforms. The most significant digital adoption has occurred in loan disbursement, where 68 per cent of transactions are now performed digitally. This trend signifies a broad acceptance of digital payments within the sector, though certain areas, such as insurance premium payments, still lag.

One of microfinance's primary goals is to promote financial inclusion by providing low-income individuals and marginalised communities with access to financial services. The shift to digital payments in microfinance has significant implications for financial inclusion in Bangladesh.

Digital payments enable MFIs to reach underserved communities more effectively.

Physical bank branches are scarce in many rural areas, and traditional banking services are often inaccessible to low-income individuals. However, with the proliferation of mobile phones and the widespread availability of mobile banking services, even individuals in remote areas can now access financial services. This reduces the dependency on physical infrastructure and allows more people to participate in the formal financial system.

Furthermore, digital payments reduce the cost of transactions for both MFIs and borrowers. Traditional cash-based transactions involve transportation costs, manual labour, and theft risk. Digital payments, conversely, are cost-effective and secure, reducing the overall cost of providing financial services. This allows MFIs to pass on the savings to borrowers through lower interest rates or reduced fees.

For borrowers, the convenience of digital payments is another critical factor in promoting financial inclusion. Borrowers can make payments at any time, from anywhere, without relying on a field officer's presence. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for individuals with irregular income patterns, such as small farmers, informal sector workers, or women engaged in home-based enterprises.

The transition to digital payments has also significantly impacted the empowerment of women, who comprise most of the microfinance clients in Bangladesh. Many women, particularly in conservative rural communities, face restrictions on mobility and may not have been able to engage in traditional cash-based transactions easily. Digital payments provide a more discreet and convenient way for women to access financial services, helping them gain greater economic independence and autonomy.

The shift from cash to clicks has introduced several operational efficiencies for microfinance institutions. Digital payments streamline the loan disbursement and repayment processes, reducing the need for manual intervention and minimising the chances of human error. This has led to quicker loan processing times and turnaround for loan approval and disbursement, enhancing the overall experience for borrowers.

Moreover, digital payments improve transparency in microfinance transactions. One of the challenges associated with cash-based transactions is the need to track and audit cash flows. Digital payments, on the other hand, provide a digital footprint for every transaction, making it easier for MFIs to monitor and audit their financial activities. This helps reduce fraud and corruption, which can be a concern in cash-based systems, particularly in large-scale microfinance operations.

In addition, digital payments allow for real-time monitoring and data collection. MFIs can track borrowers' repayment behaviour, assess credit risk more accurately, and use data analytics to improve decision-making processes. This helps identify potential defaulters early and enables MFIs to offer tailored financial products based on individual borrowing patterns and repayment history.

Digital payments offer greater transparency and accountability for borrowers. Through mobile apps or SMS notifications, borrowers can easily track their loan disbursement, repayment schedules, and outstanding balances. This reduces the risk of misunderstandings or disputes regarding loan terms and repayment amounts, enhancing trust between MFIs and their clients.

The transition from cash to digital payments in microfinance has broader implications for Bangladesh's economy. By increasing financial inclusion, digital payments contribute to the formalisation of the economy. As more individuals and small businesses engage in digital financial transactions, they become part of the formal financial system, which helps the government and regulatory authorities track economic activities more effectively. This formalisation can lead to a broader tax base and improved economic planning.

Digital payments in microfinance also support the development of a cashless economy, a key policy objective of the Bangladesh government. By reducing the reliance on cash, digital payments help to reduce the costs associated with cash handling, such as printing and transportation of physical currency. Moreover, a shift toward a cashless economy can help reduce the size of the informal economy, where cash transactions often go unreported and untaxed.

Another economic benefit of digital payments in microfinance is the increased efficiency in financial intermediation. By reducing transaction costs and improving operational efficiencies, digital payments allow MFIs to scale their operations and reach more borrowers. This, in turn, can lead to greater access to credit for small businesses and entrepreneurs, stimulating economic growth and job creation in rural and underserved areas.

Digital payments also play a significant role in promoting financial literacy. As individuals become accustomed to mobile banking apps and digital payment platforms, they gain exposure to a broader range of financial services, such as savings, insurance, and investment products. This can improve financial decision-making and better financial management practices, contributing to overall economic stability.

While the transition to digital payments in microfinance presents numerous benefits, it has challenges. One of the primary obstacles is the digital divide, particularly in rural areas where access to smartphones, the internet, and digital literacy may be limited. Although mobile phone penetration is high in Bangladesh, there are still regions where access to mobile financial services is constrained by inadequate infrastructure or low levels of digital literacy.

Another challenge is the trust deficit among some borrowers, particularly older individuals or those with limited technology experience. Many borrowers are accustomed to cash-based transactions and may hesitate to adopt digital payments due to concerns about fraud, data privacy, or the security of their financial information. Overcoming these trust barriers will require concerted efforts from MFIs, mobile financial service providers, and government authorities to promote digital literacy and build confidence in the security and reliability of digital payments.

Regulatory challenges also exist regarding data privacy, consumer protection, and cybersecurity. As the digital financial ecosystem expands, there is a growing need for robust regulatory frameworks that protect consumers' rights and ensure the security of digital transactions. The Bangladesh government and regulatory authorities must work closely with industry stakeholders to develop and enforce regulations that promote innovation while safeguarding the interests of borrowers.

The transition from cash-based transactions to digital payments in microfinance is reshaping Bangladesh's financial landscape. This shift offers numerous advantages, including increased financial inclusion, operational efficiency, and transparency.

Digital payments enable microfinance institutions to reach underserved communities more effectively, reduce transaction costs, and promote financial independence, particularly among women. The broader economic implications of this transition are equally significant, as digital payments contribute to the formalisation of the economy, the development of a cashless society, and the promotion of financial literacy.

However, challenges remain in ensuring that the benefits of digital payments are accessible to all, particularly in rural areas where the digital divide persists. Addressing these challenges will require collaboration between MFIs, mobile financial service providers, government authorities, and other stakeholders. By investing in digital infrastructure, promoting digital literacy, and developing robust regulatory frameworks, Bangladesh can continue to harness the power of digital payments to drive economic growth and financial inclusion in the years to come.

The writer is a researcher and development worker.​

Bangladesh starts importing electricity from Nepal via India
Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha . Dhaka 17 November, 2024, 00:26



In a landmark development in regional energy cooperation, Bangladesh has begun receiving electricity generated in Nepal through the Indian grid, marking the first-ever trilateral power transaction among the countries.

The milestone was inaugurated through a virtual event, attended by Bangladesh’s power, energy and mineral resources adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, Haryana chief minister and Indian minister for power Manohar Lal Khattar and Nepal’s minister of energy, water resources and irrigation Dipak Khadka.

The initiative, which sees Bangladesh initially receiving up to 40 MW of electricity from Nepal, underscored a new chapter in sub-regional energy connectivity, said a press release on Saturday.

The development follows a tripartite agreement signed on October 3, between the Nepal electricity authority, Bangladesh power development board and NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam of India.

Officials highlighted that the transaction would bolster energy security, enhance cooperation, and increase the share of renewable energy in Bangladesh’s power mix.

Bangladesh chief adviser professor Muhammad Yunus recently called for the creation of a South Asian electricity grid, enabling seamless power exchange within the region.

The launch of this power supply is considered a critical step toward that goal, fostering stronger economic and energy linkages between South Asian nations.​

Bangladesh eyes enhanced diplomatic and economic ties with Africa
UNB
Published :
Nov 15, 2024 21:57
Updated :
Nov 15, 2024 21:57



In a strategic effort to strengthen Bangladesh’s diplomatic engagement and expand bilateral cooperation in Africa, Foreign Secretary Md. Jashim Uddin held a virtual meeting with Bangladesh Ambassadors and High Commissioners serving across the African continent.

During the meeting held on Thursday, the Foreign Secretary highlighted the growing significance of Africa in Bangladesh’s foreign policy and emphasized the importance of exploring potentials in Africa’s emerging markets and vast natural resources to promote economic, trade and investment opportunities for Bangladesh.

Among others, a key focus of the discussions was agricultural cooperation, particularly in the area of contract farming.

The Foreign Secretary underscored the potential for Bangladesh to engage in mutually beneficial agricultural initiatives with African nations.

He urged the Ambassadors and High Commissioners to explore opportunities for collaboration in this sector.

He called upon the heads of missions to explore new avenues of cooperation with their host countries. He also asked the Heads of Mission to give utmost priority in providing consular services to the expatriate Bangladeshi.

The heads of missions shared updates on their ongoing initiatives and challenges, providing insights into their host countries’ priorities for collaboration with Bangladesh.

The meeting was attended by Additional Foreign Secretary and Inspector General of Missions Dr. Md. Nazrul Islam, Director General (Africa) B M Jamal Hossain, Director General (Administration) Mohammad Nazmul Haque. Heads of Bangladesh missions in Algeria, Egypt, Kenya, Libya, Morocco, Nigeria and South Africa attended the meeting on virtual platform.​

Army Chief joins Annual COs’ and OCs’ Conference Corps of Signals in Jashore
BSS
Published: 13 Nov 2024, 20: 30


Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman Addressing the Annual COs’ and OCs’ Conference Corps of Signals at Signals Training Center and School (STC&S) at Jashore Cantonment on 13 November BSS

Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman today called upon the members of the Corps of Signals to be ready to face the tough challenges of the 21st century by acquiring capabilities through modern and time-befitting training.

Addressing the Annual COs’ and OCs’ Conference Corps of Signals at Signals Training Center and School (STC&S) at Jashore Cantonment as the chief guest, he mentioned about glorious heritage of the Corps of Signals and its contribution to the service of the country.

Besides, during the exchange of views with the officers of the Corps of Signals, Waker-Uz-Zaman highlighted various issues including technical development, research, professional skill enhancement and future plans of the Corps.

Senior military officers of Army Headquarters, commanders of all signals brigades of Bangladesh Army were present on the occasion, among others, according to an ISPR release.

Apart from this, the army chief laid the foundation stone of 500-bed Army Medical College Hospital, Jashore at Jessore Cantonment.

Once constructed, the hospital will play a significant role in providing better treatment to the retired army personnel and their families side by side producing skilled doctors, the release added.

GOC, ARTDOC; GOC, 55 Infantry Division, senior military officers of Army Headquarters, Army Medical College, Jashore Principal, Chief Executive Officer, faculties, students and army personnel of various ranks were present, among others.​

Mohiuddin Ahmed’s column
Awami League’s politics rings hollow
India’s political forces want Bangladesh to remain subservient to them. Hasina had been fulfilling this for the past 15 years. She had no love for the country, only love for power. She gave India whatever they wanted. In fact, she even gave them what they hadn’t asked for


RMG workers demonstrate, attack police line and block highway in Gazipur Prothom Alo

The talk of the town this week was Awami League’s sudden announcement of a programme to take to the streets. A recording of a phone call went viral on social media, though it has not been ascertained whether it was actually Sheikh Hasina speaking. In the past we’ve seen technology being used to modify voices on social media.

Anyhow, many Awami Leaguers sitting abroad have been using Facebook and YouTube to spread all sorts of propaganda. Awami League’s Facebook page announced that they would hold a showdown on 10 November, Noor Hossain Day.

Noor Hossain was martyred during the anti-Ershad movement. Awami League was not in that movement alone. Three alliances were in that movement and so was Jamaat-e-Islami. In our country if anyone dies in a movement, all the parties claim proprietorship. Various parties claimed they owned Noor Hossain too. Later it was found out that he was a Jubo League leader in his locality and so he was Awami League property!

Using Noor Hossain Day to take to the streets is sheer hypocrisy on the part of Awami League, the party that was topped in the student-people’s uprising. It is a sheer duplicity. Noor Hossain was shot dead by the police during Ershad’s rule. Many would call Ershad a ‘killer’ back then. Yet we watched in amazement how that very same Ershad became Awami League’s best friend. Sheikh Hasina herself made Ershad a special envoy. She fully rehabilitated him in politics.

Goebbels was like an infant compared to those who ran the information ministry during Awami League’s rule. They churned out huge amounts of lies, propaganda and rumours.

Awami League was looking for a chance. They tried to use Noor Hossain Day to take to the streets. But this was just a hollow sound of Awami League.

Goebbels was like an infant compared to those who ran the information ministry during Awami League’s rule. They churned out huge amounts of lies, propaganda and rumours. If they were criticised, they would use their laws to arrest dissenters on charges of spreading rumours, they would punish them, even subject them to enforced disappearance.

After 5 August social media has been running rife with rumours. They even spread the rumour that Bangladesh flag wasn’t raised during the in the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Those spreading such rumours are of little intelligence. And those who believe all this, are simply fools.

We saw so many rumours about Saint Martin’s island too. I worked as a consultant for a water resources ministry project in 2004-05. The project was about coastal region planning and it came up with several recommendations to protect the biodiversity of the coastal region. The government gave its approval. Long before that project, quite a few areas including Saint Martin’s were declared to be endangered zones.

Who will India groom up after Hasina? In recent times we see certain leaders of BNP desperate for the election to be held

Saint Martin’s is a small island with limited fresh water sources. Unplanned tourism is pushing the island towards destruction. We had recommended controlled tourism at Saint Martin’s. And effort was started up to control tourists, but when Awami League came to power the project was abandoned. Now with the interim government at the helm, considerations are being made about protecting Saint Martin’s island. And Awami Leaguers are spreading the rumour that the island is being handed over to the US. This is cheap propaganda.

In the meantime, Sheikh Hasina who fled to India is saying all sorts of things. Hasina’s spokesperson is her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy. No other leader of her party is visible. This proves that Awami League is completely a one-family party. But the party also had a lot of slavish loyalists. A group of opportunist cronies was formed over the years. These people sold their souls to Awami League in exchange of posts, jobs, plots of land or bank loans. It is only natural that the intellectuals, journalists, university teachers, bureaucrats, police and persons in the administration, of the Awami League camp, will not try to muddy the waters.

The reaction to Awami League’s announcement of a gathering was that on 10 November all anti-Awami League forces including BNP, Students against Discrimination and others, took to the streets. They paid attention t the matter. But I feel they over reacted. Awami League’s announcement proved to be a damp squib. We did see a few being beaten up. We have no idea what they were doing there.

Some India media had headlines reading, “Yunus’ men assault Trump supporters.” Since after 5 August, some news media in India have been continuously reporting in favour of Sheikh Hasina and against the Yunus government. Much of this is misinformation. There is a consensus about India’s left, right and centre political parties about keeping Bangladesh in control. India’s political forces want Bangladesh to remain subservient to them. Hasina had been fulfilling this for the past 15 years. She had no love for the country, only love for power. She gave India whatever they wanted. In fact, she even gave them what they hadn’t asked for. Sheikh Hasina’s children live abroad. She used Bangladesh to wield her power and for her underlings to loot and plunder.

What possibility is there of Sheikh Hasina returning to politics? There is some possibility is India becomes aggressive in this regard. We have seen at various times how India grooms some of its agents. At one time they groomed Hussain Muhammad Ershad. Ershad was in power for 10 years. Even after being toppled in a mass uprising, he remained staunch in politics till death. India used Jatiya Party as their buffer. At one time JSD was called India’s “second defence line”, though this was spread by pro-Peking political parties.

The question now is, who will India groom up after Hasina? In recent times we see certain leaders of BNP desperate for the election to be held. BNP had seen a downfall after 1/11. After that, they tried to win India’s favour.

BNP’s top leader Khaleda Zia visited India in 2012. She met with India’s prime minister, president and opposition leaders. BNP tired t convey the message that they no longer nurtured their previous hard-line against India. BNP can be an alternative to Awami League. India would have no problems if they went to power.

Given past experience, there can very well be suspicions of a political game. The debate that looms large at present is, which comes first, reforms or the election? The government says that the commissions that they have formed will submit her reports within three months. Then they will hold dialogue with the political parties. BNP is a big party and is upbeat about the election. They can wait for some time more. Why do they repeat themselves time and again at press briefings and rallies?

What does BNP want? Some within BNP contend that reforms are the task of an elected government. But the thing is, it has been seen that elected governments do not carry out reforms. On one hand the Awami League leaders and activists are talking big from their hiding places. On the other hand, BNP and other political parties are becoming restive. Then again, certain advisors of the government seem to have become a bit inactive. There are apprehensions that the people may grow frustrated. If the people are frustrated, the political waters will become murkier.

* Mohiuddin Ahmad is a writer and researcher​

Iranian envoy calls on Adviser Sakhawat
FE ONLINE DESK
Published :
Nov 12, 2024 22:45
Updated :
Nov 12, 2024 22:45



Iranian Ambassador in Dhaka Mansour Chavoshi on Tuesday called on Shipping, Labour and Employment Adviser Brig General (retd) M Sakhawat Hossain at his secretariat office in Dhaka.

The Iranian ambassador expressed his country's support and cooperation to the present interim government.

There is a long friendly relation, religious and cultural similarities between the government of Iran and Bangladesh, the ambassador said, adding that the existing relations between the two countries are being consolidated gradually, reports BSS.

Iran has been importing jute and jute goods from Bangladesh while Bangladesh is importing natural liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Iran, the ambassador said, adding that the people of both the countries might be benefited by exploring existing facilities and prospects by re-enforcing the commercial relations between the two countries.

Welcoming the eagerness of Iran, the shipping adviser told the ambassador that Bangladesh is always running the movement of shipping maintaining the international standard of shipping navigation.

Historically, there have been long-term commercial relations between the two countries, Brig Sakhawat said, adding that Bangladesh is a major partner of middle-east oriented business.

He said there is a vast scope of expansion of export and import between the two countries. The adviser also emphasized on enhancing inter-relations between the business communities of Iran and Bangladesh.

Senior Secretary to the Shipping Ministry Mohammad Yousuf and other senior officials of the ministry were present during the call on.​

Bangabandhu’s photo removed from Darbar Hall at Bangabhaban


Photo: Collected from Mahfuj Alam's Facebook profile

A photo of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman has been removed from the Darbar Hall in Bangabhaban, the official residence of Bangladesh's president.

Adviser Mahfuj Alam, in a Facebook post today, said, "The photo of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman - Post '71 fascist, is removed from Darbar Hall. It is a shame for us that we couldn't remove his pictures from Bangabhaban after the 5th of August. Apologies. But, he won't be seen anywhere till people's July spirit lives on."

Alam further wrote, "Awami League must acknowledge and apologise for what Sheikh Mujib and his daughter have done to the people of Bangladesh, starting from non- the democratic '72 constitution to famine, laundering of billions [of takas] and extrajudicial killings of thousands of dissidents and opponents (1972-75, 2009-2024). Then, we can talk about pre '71 Sheikh Mujib. Without apologies and trials of fascists, there won't be any kind of reconciliation."

When contacted, the president's press secretary, Joynal Abedin, did not respond.

However, a press wing official said that the photo of Bangabandhu was present last night when three new advisers took their oath in Darbar Hall.

"They went home after the oath programme; I have no knowledge about the incident," he added.

According to Article 4A of Bangladesh's Constitution, "The Portrait of the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman shall be preserved and displayed" in key government offices, including those of the president, prime minister, speaker and chief justice, as well as in government and semi-government offices, educational institutions, and embassies.

In 2000, the Awami League government passed a law making it obligatory for all government offices to display Bangabandhu's portrait. However, this law was repealed in 2001 when the BNP-led government took office.​