Inside Politics

3 killed during clash in Thakurgaon

Publish: 04:00 PM, 29 Nov, 2021

Three people were shot dead reportedly by members of a law enforcement agency during a clash over elections at Khangaon union in Pirganj Upazila of Thakurgaon district on Sunday night and early Monday.

Jahangir Hossain, Superintendent of Police of Thakurgaon, said, “As officials of the local administration were confined to a polling center, a BGB team went there to rescue them. They had to open fire at one point to bring the situation under control. The three might have died in BGB firing. However, we need further investigation to be sure about it.”

Jahangir Alam, officer-in-charge of Pirganj Police Station, said one of the three deceased died on the spot while two others succumbed to their wounds at Sadar Hospital.

Two of the injured are undergoing treatment at Rangpur Medical College Hospital and Thakurgaon Adhunik Sadar Hospital.

The deceased were identified as Aditya, 18, Mojaharul Islam, 35, and Hossain, 26.

Police said Nuruzzaman, an independent candidate, and his supporters confined the officials of the administration, including the presiding officer, to Ghidob Primary School when the vote count ended around 8:00 pm.

When Haripur Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Mohammad Abdul Karim reached the spot along with a BGB team, the candidate’s supporters attacked them and vandalized the vehicle.

After nearly two hours, BGB men opened fire to bring the situation under control, leaving one dead on the spot and four others injured, said the OC.

The injured were sent to Thakurgaon Sadar Hospital where two others succumbed to their injuries.

With the death toll in Thakurgaon, at least eight people were killed and over 100 others injured as the 3rd phase of Union Parishad (UP) elections ended on Sunday afternoon amid sporadic violence and irregularities.

Violence was reported from different parts of the country, including Narsingdi, Brahmanbaria, Lakshmipur, Jashore, and Khulna.

The first and second phases of UP elections were marred by violence and irregularities.

At least six people were killed and over 100 others injured in the 2nd phase of the Union Parishad (UP) elections on 11 November.

Violence was reported from different parts of the country, including Narsingdi, Cox’s Bazar, Cumilla, and Chattogram.

Three people were killed and a number of people were injured in the first phase of the Union Parishad election that concluded with reports of sporadic violence and clashes on 20 September.

Comment

Inside Politics

Are people trusted party workers entering politics?

Md. Oliul Islam
Staff Reporter

Publish: 10:00 AM, 01 Nov, 2021

It is said that generally, a highly educated person can read six thousand medium-sized books in a lifetime, but Mao Se Tung is an exception. He has read eleven thousand books. He is not just interested in bringing about a revolution in post-feudal society; for many, he is still relevant due to his intellectual dominance. Regarding Mao Se Tung's relationship with the party and society, his trusted comrade Chen Chang-Feng once told him, "We need workers capable of doing all kinds of work. Such workers who are trusted by the party and the people."

Bangladesh has crossed the golden jubilee of its independence. Currently, there is no shortage of any kind in Bangladesh, especially in terms of political parties. Various misconceptions have arisen in the public mind due to the leadership activities of these parties. Many believe that over the past 50 years, mainstream politics has transformed into the center of corruption.

Currently, even though there is no shortage of leaders in the mainstream political parties, trusted workers are still in short supply. Whether it's the Awami League or the BNP not being closely connected to the general public, conflicts within the Chhatra League, or the absence of Chhatra Dal’s movements on the streets, but present with forces during committee formation, suggests that the scarcity of trusted workers remains a concern, according to political analysts.

Mugdha Saha, who pursued his undergraduate and postgraduate studies from a Private university, candidly told Bangla Insider that he doesn't understand what is happening in politics in the country right now. He mentioned that the leaders are involved in politics for the people but are rarely seen in their constituencies unless it's election time. He also mentioned that within their own party, leaders tend to form groups. They give important committee positions like president and general secretary to their preferred individuals and distance themselves from those who ask questions or seek accountability. They keep such individuals at bay. Those who engage in flattery and are agreeable to typecasting are the ones favored in current politics. Saha concluded by saying that if you don't have a supporting pillar behind you, you won't be able to achieve much in politics. Becoming an MP or a minister is a distant dream and thinking of leading the party is a sin. Therefore, he questions for whose dream they writing their name in the political parties.

Most educated and intelligent young people, like Saha, are no longer interested in entering politics. Some don't want to engage in politics because they believe it can jeopardize their education and career prospects. Moreover, the current political environment is not conducive. As a result, educated and smart young individuals are more interested in indulging in fun activities, exchanging explicit sexual stories, engaging in arguments and conflicts, hurling insults at each other, watching sports if they are sports enthusiasts, and sharing opinions on social media. However, they rarely discuss political, social, or national issues. Some of them might discuss foreign politics, but they steer clear of domestic politics due to the toxic atmosphere in educated circles. The avoidance of mainstream politics by the educated segment of the population is seen as a triumph for unhealthy political practices, according to analysts.

Political and social analysts are saying that educated young individuals need to understand that not all political parties, leaders, or workers are corrupt. There are good people involved in politics too. If educated youth refrain from entering politics, the vacuum will be filled by less desirable individuals, which is already happening. Nature abhors a vacuum. By not participating, educated youth are indirectly contributing to the decline in mainstream political parties. The larger parties have been negatively affected due to the absence of committed and honest workers. The heavyweights in these parties, who lack dedication to the people and the country, have caused this deterioration.

However, there are some educated young people who have deviated from the right path. There are individuals who prioritize personal interests. Therefore, we need to carefully choose from among them. Some of them lack individuality, personal judgment, and are devoted to the party line. Yet, compared to the overall educated population, their numbers are low. Hence, it is essential for educated youth to bring about change because their hands hold the future of the nation. If recruitment in politics is dominated by dishonest and untrustworthy individuals, the consequences could be dire, according to analysts.

Comment

Inside Politics

Chhatra League is the burden of Awami League?

Md. Oliul Islam
Staff Reporter

Publish: 12:00 PM, 27 Nov, 2021

In January 1969, under the leadership of Chhatra League, the united student movement council, known as Sarbadaliya Chhatra Sangram Parishad, was formed and demanded 11 points. In the first point (Dha), it was stated that half of the fare on trains, steamers, and launches should be provided to students upon showing their identity cards. This matter of utmost importance has never been incorporated into any government law. Although some verbal agreements led to providing students with half fares on certain means of transportation, there has been no written contract or declaration.

Now, students are protesting demanding half fares for bus transportation. Students are running a movement demanding the issuance of a declaration regarding the commencement of half-passenger services for all types of transportation except ambulances on the main roads of the capital. In the movement, allegations of attacks on students in the Science Laboratory area have arisen. Students claim that the attackers are Chhatra League activists. It is noteworthy that the Chhatra League, under whose leadership the 11-point demand for half fares and other benefits for common students was announced against the dictatorial rulers of West Pakistan, has now resorted to attacking students protesting half fares on the streets!

On one hand, Chhatra League is attacking students involved in the ongoing movement, while on the other hand, Chhatra League President Al Nahian Khan Joy urging transportation owners to accept the demand for half fares on buses, showing support for the students' demands. This dual behavior of Chhatra League and the future of student politics and its role in the political arena are raising various questions in the minds of the public. Due to such misconduct by Chhatra League and other affiliated organizations, the main party, Bangladesh Awami League, is perceived to be weakening significantly in terms of its image, according to political analysts.

The government is also aware of the allegations against Chhatra League. Not too long ago, on November 17th, in Tangail, leaders of the Ganaodhikar Parishad, Dr. Reza Kibria, and former Vice-President of Dhaka University Nurul Haque Nur were attacked by Chhatra League for attending a rally at the shrine of Maulana Bhasani. Over time, Nurul has been a victim of repeated attacks by Chhatra League. Even yesterday, Friday evening at 3 o'clock, Chhatra League and Juba League allegedly attacked activists of the Ganaodhikar Parishad during the Ananda Rally of the organization in Mymensingh. Although after the incident Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina hinted at a new political party led by Dr. Reza Kibria and Nurul Haque Nur during a meeting of the central executive committee of the Awami League and said, "I have told the IGP that those who want to form a new party, they should be allowed to do so, and they should form their party and work. A multiparty democracy exists here. So, there should be no hindrance here. If they want to hold rallies, let them do it. Why should we obstruct rallies?"

Even after the statement of the Awami League president, the 'Ganaodhikar Parishad' has become the victim of two consecutive attacks by Chhatra League. On the past Tuesday, not only did they physically assault the students, but they also snatched a student from Ideal College after a brief chase and exchange of blows. He remained missing for almost 5 hours, as confirmed by multiple sources. As a result, the question arises as to why Chhatra League had to resort to repression instead of expressing unity with the students' demands.

Even on the day before this incident, in an exclusive conversation with Bangla Insider, a former influential leader of Chhatra League, a member of Awami League's Presidium, Jahangir Kabir Nanak, expressed his support for the students' demand for half fares. He said, "I support this demand of the students." Following that, Information Minister Hassan Mahmud and Murad Hasan also expressed their support for this demand. Then, last Thursday, the President of Chhatra League also expressed solidarity with the students' demand. However, there was a significant delay, and by that time, an element within Chhatra League had already resorted to violence against the students.

In recent times, several controversial incidents involving Chhatra League have made headlines one after another. Especially at Chittagong Medical College, a Chhatra League worker, known as Mahadi Jay Akib, had to face a life-threatening situation due to clashes between two factions of Chhatra League. After a long break due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Medical College had to be closed again due to this incident. Additionally, in Pirganj, Rangpur, communal violence and attacks on minority communities have been linked to a Chhatra League leader named Saikat Mandal.

The absence of opposition student organizations has turned the violence by Chhatra League against Chhatra League into a daily issue. In the past 12 years, Chhatra League's internal conflicts have led to numerous incidents such as attacks on opponents, extortion, power struggles, gunfights, clashes, vandalism, drug trafficking, and control over examination centers, resulting in the loss of around 130 lives. The horrifying scenes of the murder of Bishwajit in the hands of Chhatra League leaders in Dhaka a few years ago were witnessed by the people of the country. Incidents like throwing the principal into the pond at Barishal College, acid attacks on teachers at Rangpur Begum Rokeya University, setting fire to the hostel of MC College in Sylhet, and recent incidents of sexual harassment and broadcasting videos with multiple criminal cases have tarnished the image of Chhatra League in several areas.

Two years ago, in 2019, the President and General Secretary of the Chhatra League was exempted from the party after demanded extortion from Jahangirnagar University’s VC in the name of 'chanda' (donation).

Political analysts say that in the 1950s and 1960s, Chhatra League was a more vibrant organization on the political stage than the Awami League itself. However, they have distanced themselves from that position long ago. It is their departure from the educational institutions that has led them to launch attacks on students instead of supporting their demands. If activists engage in any conspiracy or attempt to destabilize the country, there are law enforcement agencies and intelligence personnel to deal with that. There is no need to attack students for this purpose. While the previous Chhatra League had many achievements, the current leaders of Chhatra League are tarnishing all of those accomplishments. In addition to the allegations against Chhatra League, there are numerous complaints from the general public. Fame has diminished, but allegations have increased. Currently, in every disaster happening in the country, the names of this organization's leaders come up. From student politics to tender manipulation, starting from extortion, question paper leaks, intrusion, female harassment, and even assault, their involvement can be found everywhere.

Chhatra League Awami League

Comment

Inside Politics

UP elections: What is behind the sinking of the boat?

Md. Oliul Islam
Staff Reporter

Publish: 10:00 AM, 30 Nov, 2021

The third phase of Union Parishad (UP) elections took place last Sunday. Amidst violence, ballot paper snatching, and attempts to infiltrate polling centers, the election ended with various irregularities and controversies. In many districts, boat symbols have been victorious in the third phase, despite facing tough competition due to internal conflicts, rivalries, and power struggles among local MPs, ministers, and top-level leaders.

Critics accuse influential leaders within the ruling Awami League of working against boat symbol candidates. They claim that due to internal disputes, conflicts, and power-based politics at the district and sub-district levels, boat candidates faced difficulties even in the third phase. Nearly 47% of boat symbols were defeated, according to unofficial results revealed by the election commission.

Rebel and independent candidates have gained ground in these UP elections. Local Members of Parliament and influential leaders have played a role in working against boat symbol candidates. Allegations of campaigning against boat candidates and their supporters have been raised by leaders of the local Awami League.

Throughout the election process, approval has been given to identified and disputed individuals, including terrorists, drug dealers, family members of Razakars, and suspects in murder-rape cases. The local Awami League leaders had informed the party's central office about this matter, as stated by the party's general secretary Obaidul Quader.

In these UP elections, boat symbols have been defeated by members of rival parties and independent candidates. Meanwhile, the central Awami League leaders are blaming local leaders for the losses. Allegations of manipulating nominations with money from Dhaka without considering local interests have been raised against them. Besides, there are allegations of issuing threats and creating a hostile environment. Murders and violence are also on the rise, with most victims being associated with the Awami League.

The center accuses the MPs and district-subdistrict leaders. However, the Trinamool leaders accuse the center. They allege that money was used to nominate boat candidates from Dhaka. Amid these allegations of switching sides, there are also threats and intimidation. Murders are on the rise. Everyone is their own opponent. Almost all the victims of violence are Awami League leaders and activists.

However, the Election Commission secretary has stated that the election is going well and will improve further. And the Home Minister says that such conflicts are common in UP elections.

To understand the reasons behind the boat's struggles in these elections, Bangla Insider spoke to SM Kamal Hossain, the organizational secretary of the Awami League. He explained that in UP elections, clan, family, neighborhood, and community influences play a significant role in voters' decisions. To address this, they have started organizing extended meetings at the district and sub-district levels to educate people about the rebel candidates and their agenda. If that doesn't work, they will resort to organizational measures, he added.

In the information available in the media, it has been revealed that among the 992 UP elections held last Sunday, boat symbols won in 525 UPs, which accounts for approximately 52.92% of the total UPs. Rebel candidates from the Awami League won in 249 UPs, which is about 25.38% of the total UPs. The BNP's local leaders won as independents in 108 UPs, constituting approximately 11%.

In UP elections, only the chairman's position is contested on a party basis. Among the 15 UPs in Faridpur's Bhanga and Charbhadrasan upazilas, rebel candidates won in 14. In Natore, Lalpur, and Bagatipara upazilas, only 5 out of the 15 UPs elected boat candidates. In Dinajpur, among the 23 UPs in three upazilas, 16 were won by boat candidates. Among them, nine UPs in Nawabganj upazila, four out of seven in Birampur upazila, and four out of seven in Fulbari upazila were won by boat candidates.

On the other hand, out of the 25 Union Parishad chairmen positions in three upazilas of Netrokona, boat symbol candidates won in only 8, while independents won in 16, and one election is postponed. In Munshiganj Sadar upazila and Tongibari upazila, Awami League-affiliated candidates won in 10 out of a total of 21 Union Parishads. In contrast, independent candidates won in 11 UPs. Besides, in districts like Kushtia, Cumilla, Rajbari, and Satkhira, the boat symbol did not perform well.

To understand the reasons behind the boat symbol's defeats in these areas, Bangla Insider spoke to AFM Bahauddin Nasim, a joint general secretary of the Awami League. He explained that the Awami League will contest UP elections with boat symbol candidates. Since there is no opposition, the Awami League is allowing people to run for elections through commerce. In places where the opposition is absent, the Awami League is indirectly electing its candidates through commerce without fielding them directly.

Analysts suggest that eligible and acceptable leaders are not nominated as candidates but, instead, commerce is used to gain support from the divided public. This strategy often results in boat candidates losing. The lack of enthusiasm from district leadership and a similar disinterest from the central authority contributes to these losses. Critics claim that party leadership is responsible for nominating unsuitable candidates for the chairman positions, which ultimately affects the party's performance in these elections.

UP Awami League

Comment

Inside Politics

UP elections: Awami League dyed in the blood of workers!

Md. Oliul Islam
Staff Reporter

Publish: 10:00 AM, 05 Dec, 2021

Union Parishad (UP) elections are underway in various phases across the country. The Awami League versus Awami League rivalry has intensified, marking these elections with violence. In many places, including the BNP, are also joining the elections independently. Jamaat-e-Islami is providing support from behind the scenes. As a result, instead of celebrations, these UP elections are witnessing a grim atmosphere. The heart-wrenching scenes of people losing their loved ones and homes are creating unbearable sorrow.

Since the beginning of this year until now, at least 86 lives have been lost due to violence in UP elections, as reported by the Human Rights organization, Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK). Additionally, in the past month alone, 47 lives have been lost due to election-related violence, according to the Manab Adhikar Sangskriti Forum (MASF). ASK sources reveal that the majority of the deceased are affiliated with the ruling Awami League, including leaders and workers.

According to ASK, between January and November, a total of 688 incidents of election violence occurred in various regions of the country. Out of these, 594 people were injured, and 129 lost their lives. Among the deceased, 57 were from the Awami League alone. Election-related violence is mainly concentrated in UP elections, where 442 incidents have taken place. In these incidents, 5,234 people were injured, and 86 lost their lives. ASK, along with law enforcement agencies from various districts, has discovered that most of the deceased were Awami League supporters.

Violence in the Third phase

The third phase of local elections took place in Bangladesh on November 28th, with voting held in 986 union parishads. In the lead-up to and following these elections, incidents of violence have been reported in various parts of the country, resulting in at least 15 fatalities and over a hundred injuries.

Bhola

On November 26th, violence erupted during the election campaign in Bhola's Sadar Upazila. Mohammad Khurshed Alam Titu, a 32-year-old leader of the ruling Awami League's youth wing (Bangladesh Awami Jubo League), was killed in a shootout involving political rivals. Khurshed was the son of Tazir Ahmed, a member of Dhanija Union in the upazila, and he was an active organizer in the local Jubo League.

Pirojpur

In Pirojpur, violence marred the elections on November 16th, resulting in the death of Faisal Mahbub, a youth leader of the Awami League. On November 7th, during the election campaign in Shankarpasha Union, he was injured in an attack and was in critical condition at the hospital. Faisal was a former president of the district unit of the Jubo League and a vice-president of the government-owned Shorawardi College's student parliament (VP).

Lakshmipur

In Ramganj Upazila of Lakshmipur district, violence erupted between supporters of two chairman candidates during the union parishad elections. Sajib Hossen, the president of the union's Chandonnagor word Awami League, was killed during the clashes. He was initially injured at the polling center and later succumbed to his injuries while being transported to Dhaka.

Tangail

On November 26th, Tangail witnessed violence between rival factions of the Awami League during the third phase of elections. Tota Sheikh, a 40-year-old president of the Awami League in one of the words, was killed in an armed attack. Tota Sheikh was the son of Akkel Member, the president of the Awwami League in a union in the upazila.

Brahmanbaria

In Brahmanbaria's Nabinagar, an independent candidate's supporters clashed violently on February 2nd during the election campaign. In the midst of the conflict, a supporter of independent candidate Golam Mostafa Maruf, named Masud Mia, was seriously injured with sharp weapons. He was subsequently taken to Dhaka for treatment but succumbed to his injuries there.

Sherpur

Prior to the elections on November 26th, in Angaria Union of Sherpur Sadar Upazila, supporters of the Awami League candidate for chairman Abdul Razzaq Molla attacked and killed Abdul Rajjak. This incident occurred as the results were being announced. Abdul Rajjak was a supporter of the rival candidate Anarasa Pratik.

Khulna

During the third phase of elections, Babul Sikder, a 38-year-old supporter of the Awami League-backed chairman candidate Md. Mohsin, was killed in Khulna. Babul was assaulted with sticks and sharp weapons during the election campaign. After his condition deteriorated, he was transported to Dhaka, where he succumbed to his injuries.

Cox's Bazar

In Cox's Bazar's Chakaria Upazila, supporters of Nurul Haque Arefin, the newly elected chairman of the union, attacked Gias Uddin Mintu, leaving him dead after the election results were announced. Gias Uddin was the rival candidate in the election. This incident occurred after the election results were declared.

Jessore

On the night before the election in Jessore, a clash occurred in Sharsahar Koyra Union between supporters of two chairman candidates. In the violence, Kutub Uddin (30) was killed. He was known to be a supporter of the ruling Awami League.

Narsingdi

Before the violence on November 24th in Narsingdi's Raipura, four people were killed in Narsingdi. These four individuals were Aditya Kumar Ray (23), the son of Avinash Ray from Ghidob Gram; Rahima Begum (64), the wife of Abdul Bari; Mokhles Uddin (36), the son of Habibpur Gram; and Mozaharul Islam (37), the son of the late Tamij Uddin. They were all associated with the Awami League, as per reports.

Kurigram

In Kurigram, violence erupted during the local union parishad election in Fulbari Upazila on November 24th, leading to the death of Babul Mia (40) among the supporters of the candidate.

Munshiganj

After the announcement of the UP election results in Munshiganj's Sadar Upazila, a separate incident of violence has resulted in the deaths of two individuals and injuries to several others. The deceased have been identified as Riazul Sheikh (70) and Osakil (17), with Riazul hailing from Muktarpur Gosaibag. Osakil, who tragically lost his life, was the son of Mohammad Harun Mollah from Sharitpur. Notably, Riazul's brother, Mohammad Ali Siddique, contested the UP election as a Chairman candidate with the telephone symbol as his party representation.

Kishoreganj

In another incident, during the UP elections in Kuliarchar Upazila, Kishoreganj, a clash between supporters of Awami League candidate Mohammad Enamul Haque and rebel candidate Saiful Islam resulted in the fatal shooting of Delwar Hossain (38), who was known as a supporter of Saiful Islam, the rebel candidate.

Furthermore, in Sirajganj's Solonga, a school student named Delwar Hossain Sagar (16) lost his life due to election-related violence. In Pirganj, Thakurgaon, four individuals were killed in gunfire by law enforcement personnel. The deceased were identified as Aditya Kumar Roy (23), the son of Abinash Roy from Ghidob Gram, Rahima Begum (64), the wife of Abdul Bari, Sahabul (36), the son of Tofazzal Hossen from Habibpur Gram, and Mojaharul Islam (37), the deceased son of Tamij Uddin from Chhit Ghidob Gram.

Violence in the Second Phase

The second phase of elections took place on November 11th. In the second phase, 11 people have died due to violence in the elections to 835 Union Parishads. Among these deaths, seven occurred on the day of voting itself. Among them, seven people were killed in Narayanganj, two in Cumilla, and one each in Cox's Bazar and Chittagong. In the days following the election, three more people were killed in Dhamrai and Rajbari. Among them, two were killed in Dhamrai and one in Rajbari.

Narsingdi

The highest number of deaths in the second phase occurred in Narsingdi. 9 people were killed in Sadar and Raipura upazilas due to violence on both sides of Awami League. Among them, 6 people were killed before the election and 3 more people were killed in the violence on the day of the election. All of them were shot dead. Four people were killed and at least 30 injured in a clash between two groups of Awami League in Alokbali Union of Sadar Upazila of Narsingdi on the second phase of elections on November 4. The deceased are Amir Hossain (45), son of Katumia of Nekjanpur village, Ashraful (22), son of Abdul Jalil of the same village, Khushi Begum (50), daughter of Abdul Manu Mia, and one other person. According to local sources, the three deceased are the current chairman of Alokbali Union. Worker-supporter of Delwar Hossain. The current chairman Delwar Hossain's conflict with the opposition union Awami League's general secretary Asadullah has been going on for a long time. Soon after, the supporters of both sides clashed with tentacles and indigenous weapons.

Earlier on October 28 in Raipura, Narsingdi, three people died in a clash between the supporters of ruling Awami League's boat symbol candidate Ashraful Haque and supporters of Awami League leader Zakir Hossain, who ran as an independent candidate without getting the party nomination. The deceased are Dulal Mia (45), Salauddin (41) and Jahangir Mia (26) of Banshgari area. They are all workers of Awami League. On the same day, two people named Sadir Mia and Hiran were shot dead in a clash between two groups of Awami League in Kacharikandi village.

Meherpur

On November 8th, in Meherpur's Gangni upazila, two brothers, Jaharul Islam (54) and Sahadul Islam (51), were killed in a clash between supporters of the Awami League and independent candidates in the Laxminarayanpur Dholagram area. Jaharul and Sahadul both are cousin of independent candidate Azmar Hossain Tutul. It is known that both of them were supporters of the ruling Awami League.

Bhola

On November 26th, in Bhola district's Sadar upazila, during post-election violence, a young Awami League leader named Mr. Khurshed Alam Titu (32) was shot and killed by militants. The deceased, Khurshed, was the son of Tazhir Ahmed from the village of Kanaingar in Ward 4 of Dhaniya Union. He was also an active member of the Awami League.

Rajbari

On November 11th, in Rajbari Sadar upazila, an Awami League leader and former chairman Abdul Latif was shot and killed in front of his house by unknown assailants.

Cox's Bazar

On November 5th, during the night, two candidates for Union Parishad elections in Cox's Bazar's Jhilongja Union were shot by unidentified individuals. Candidate Kudrat Ullah Sikder and his brother Jahirul Islam Sikder succumbed to their injuries. Jahirul Islam Sikder was the president of the district labor league.

Pabna

On November 9th, during the Union Parishad election in Pabna's Sujangar upazila, a person named Sabuj Hossen (28) was killed in an attack by the opposition. Sabuj Hossen, the son of Hachen Ali from Cholna village in Sujangar, was a supporter of independent candidate Omar Faruk, who was contesting in the election. On Monday night, there was a clash between the supporters of Awami League-nominated candidate Amin Uddin and the workers-supporters of independent candidate Omar Faruk in Bhayna Union. Sabuj was first injured in the clash and later succumbed to his injuries.

Jessore

On October 23rd, in Sharsha, Jessore, during the Union Parishad election, Awami League leader Ali Hossen was injured in party-related violence, and later he passed away. He fought for 18 days with injuries and finally succumbed. Ali Hossen, was a supporter of the independent Union Parishad Chairman candidate Tabibur Rahman.

Sylhet

Focusing on the second phase of elections, on October 23rd, during the Union Parishad election in Sylhet Sadar upazila's Jalalabad Union, Awami League Chairman candidate's supporter Alauddin, known as Alal (45), was attacked with local weapons and killed. He was attacked with a machete and suffered head injuries, which proved fatal. The deceased, Alal, was a supporter of Awami League Chairman candidate Obayed Ullah Issac.

Cumilla

In the second phase of elections in Comilla, there has been violence in the Meghna Upazila, particularly in the Bahurkhola Union. Sanaullah Dali (60), the son of Mudafar Ali from Hirarchar village in Meghna Upazila, and Shaon Ahmed (25), the son of Mobarak Hossain from Ballaberkandi village in Manikchar Union, were killed. There was a clash between the supporters of Jakir Hossen, an Awami League-backed chairman candidate, and Harun ar Rashid, an independent candidate, centered around the polling centers at Adhipati Bistarok in the Bahurkhola Union and Khilarchar Government Primary School in the Manikchar Union. It has been reported that they were supporters of Harun ar Rashid.

Chattogram

In the Khurushkul Union Parishad election in Cox's Bazar Sadar Upazila, there has been a fatality in a clash between the supporters of two candidate contestants. Anowara Begum, a common member candidate, and Akhtarujjaman Putu (32), a worker-supporter of Abu Bakar Siddik, were killed in the clash. Both candidates are said to be involved in Awami League politics. Additionally, in Fotikchhari, Chattogram, in another election-related incident, Mohammad Shafi (55) was killed in a clash between the supporters of two candidates, Mahbub and Forkan.

Faridpur

On October 23rd, in Khordia Gram of Saaltha Jadunandi Union in Faridpur, there was a confrontation between supporters of Awami League and independent candidates. Marij Sikdar (30) was killed in the clash. Marij Sikdar was a supporter of the rebel candidate of Awami League, Mohammad Rafiq Mollah. On the next day, in the Jalalabad election in Sylhet Sadar Upazila, Awami League-backed chairman candidate Alauddin alias Alal (45) was killed.

Kaptai

On October 17th in Kaptai Upazila of Rangamati, a contestant in the boat symbol, Nethoai Marma, was killed in her own home when armed miscreants attacked her.

Magura

On October 15th, in Ward No. 3 of Jagadal Union in Magura Sadar Upazila, there was a clash between the supporters of UP members' candidates Nazrul Islam and Saiyed Hasan Ali, leading to the deaths of four individuals. These included Subur Molla, Kabir Molla (his own brother), Rahman Molla (paternal uncle), and Imran Hossain from the opposing side. All of them were associated with Awami League politics, although they did not hold any official positions within the party, according to local leaders and activists.

Violence in the First Phase

In the first phase, elections were held for 204 UPs on June 21st and 160 UPs on September 20th. Even in the first phase, the Election Commission could not prevent violence. There have been reports of three deaths and many injuries in this election.

Kutubdia

In the first phase of voting, violence occurred in Kutubdia, Cox's Bazar, on September 20th. Abdul Halim (35), a leader of the Awami League, was killed in the afternoon. He was the general secretary of the Awami League in Ward 7 of Borghop Union. Violence erupted at the Kotakata Government Primary School polling center in Borghop Union during the voting process.

Maheshkhali

On September 20th, in Maheshkhali, Cox's Bazar, violence broke out at a polling center in Kutubjom Union. A supporter of boat symbol candidate Sheikh Kamal and a rebel candidate supporter, Mosarraf Hossen Khokon, were killed in the clash. Khokon was a supporter of Sheikh Kamal, the chairman candidate of the boat symbol. Prior to this, on June 23rd, in Shibchar, Madaripur, a labor leader of the Workers League, Abu Bakkar, was killed in a knife attack centered around the desire for votes by the opposition.

On the same day, in Kathalia, Jhalokathi, during the Upazila Parishad elections, a clash occurred between supporters of winning and losing candidates, resulting in the death of a college student and injuries to at least 15 people. Six months ago, in Raypur Union, Narshingdi, Yasin and Shahin were killed in election-related violence.

Madaripur

On the night before the Upazila Parishad election in Shibchar, Madaripur, on June 22nd, labor leader Abu Bakar Fakir (46) was initially injured and later killed in a stabbing incident involving opposition supporters. He was a supporter of winning candidate Azizul Sardar.

Barishal

At the beginning of the year on January 18th, in Mehendiganj, Barishal, violence occurred during the elections, leading to the death of Word Awami League's Vice Chairman Afsar Sikder, who was a resident of Ward 8 in the municipality. He was a motorcycle garage owner by profession.

Additionally, one person was killed in Faridpur and Sylhet. There have been clashes among supporters of rival groups in several Upazilas, resulting in injuries to several individuals.

Dr. Badiul Alam Majumdar, the secretary of SHUJAN: Citizens for Good Governance, stated that the Election Commission is primarily responsible for preventing such conflicts and violence. He raised questions about the effectiveness of the Election Commission in such situations. If they fail in their responsibilities, what will the citizens do? He mentioned that he heard from an Election Commission official that they are not responsible for these matters. Such violence often occurs in rural areas, and law enforcement agencies are sometimes unable to control it. Therefore, it can be said that they are not fulfilling their responsibilities. If they did, we would see measures being taken. Where there is secrecy and violence, we used to see elections being postponed, and punitive measures taken against those responsible. But we don't see that now. Even if political parties are responsible, measures can be taken against them, but that is also not happening, he added.

Awami League

Comment

Inside Politics

Tone of disunity in the Awami League-led grand alliance

Md. Oliul Islam
Staff Reporter

Publish: 10:00 AM, 07 Dec, 2021

Despite repeated efforts by the Awami League-led alliance to maintain political unity, internal divisions have become apparent in various areas. Distance is growing between the constituent parties of the Election Alliance, Grand Alliance, and Ideal Alliance, comprising 14 political parties, on various issues. While on one side, a sudden rift has emerged within the Grand Alliance against the Awami League, the Jatiya Party and the Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (JASAD), key partners in the Election Alliance with the Awami League, are voicing differences regarding the Bangabandhu assassination, leading to an exchange of statements. Additionally, following the casino scandal, Workers Party of Bangladesh leader Rashed Khan Menon's party has announced that they will not participate in the upcoming elections with Al boat symbol. Furthermore, some partner parties are expressing discontent over not receiving ministerial positions. Due to these factors and the positions and statements of the partner party leaders, the issue of disunity within the alliance is repeatedly coming to the forefront, leading to external speculation about instability within the alliance, according to political analysts.

In recent times, statements by leaders of the Jatiya Party and the new General Secretary Mujibul Haq Chunnu, have created differences within the political arena, especially since December 3rd. G.M. Quader, Chairman of the National Party, stated, "There is no good governance in the country anymore. After 1991, the Awami League and the BNP have repeatedly come to power without engaging with the people of the country. The people of the country have a united hope and look towards the Jatiya Party to see the Jatiya Party in power again." In addition, Mujibul Haq Chunnu remarked, "The Awami League has come to power three times with Japa's support. Now they are oppressing us. We no longer have any love for the Awami League." These contrasting statements by Japa's top two leaders have sparked concern within the political arena. The leaders of the 14 parties are now beginning to say that "the 14 parties will not take responsibility for the government's failures." Moreover, there is a diminishing interest among at least four partner parties in participating in the activities of the four alliances.

Among these four parties, the Bangladesh Jasad has been abstaining from alliance meetings and conferences for a long time. Apparently, this party, known for its sharp criticism of the government and the dominant Awami League, has been inactive in alliance activities without any formal announcement. In particular, the four parties have lost interest in participating in the programs of the four alliances. Rashid Khan Menon's Workers Party has already stated that they will not symbolically participate in the upcoming election. With these developments, speculation arises that partner parties may no longer be interested in staying with the Awami League.

How disunity begins

In the eleventh national election, the grand alliance led by the Awami League won victory with 293 seats in Bangladesh. Despite forming the government, no one from the partner parties was made a minister. This time, the Awami League has formed the first single-party cabinet. From there, the internal conflicts within the alliance began. In the new government, when none of the partners found a place within the alliance, efforts to change their positions began. After the formation of the government, the Awami League called upon its alliance partners to play a powerful opposition role in parliament. At that time, the leaders of the alliance, Workers Party President Rashed Khan Menon and JSD President Hasanul Haq Inu, said in unison, "We have come together, we have voted together, there is no question of going into the opposition." They claimed that there had been no discussion with them, even about the role of the alliance partners in the government or the alliance.

From here, it seems that the crisis has begun, and there are various debates in the political arena. Political analysts believe that this external expression of instability within the alliance is aimed at calculating who gains and who loses.

The problem remains unresolved, which is why

Former Awami League leader Mohammad Nasim, who served as the coordinator for 14 parties during his time, maintained unity among the 14 parties through various programs. However, he passed away on June 13th last year. After his death, Amir Hossain Amu has been appointed as the coordinator of the 14 parties. So far, there have only been a couple of meetings under Amu's coordination. Currently, the activities of the 14 parties remain stagnant; there is a lack of direction. They are not involved in government decision-making or activities.

However, the harsh comments of the leaders of the partner parties will not affect the Grand Alliance or the 14-party coalition, according to the Awami League. Several leaders of the coalition have stated that there is no crisis within the alliance; everyone is united. Each party conducts its own politics, and their political ideologies are different. The alliance between us is based on principles and electoral considerations. These two aspects are still strong, according to the Awami League leaders.

To understand this, Dr. Badiul Alam Majumdar, the secretsry of SHUJAN-Citizens for Good Governance, told Bangla Insider, "Whether it is 14 parties or the Grand Alliance, they don't say why because it is essentially one party. The other parties have no role. Therefore, there is no possibility of breaking the Grand Alliance or the 14-party coalition. Besides, the other parties are doing that business (politics) themselves. They consider it as their own business. So, the affiliated parties are benefiting from it as well. When they are with the Awami League, the Awami League also gains something. The Awami League is not alone; there are many other parties with them. Apart from that, the Awami League does not care about their role in government decisions.

Regarding the statements of the top leaders of the Jatiya Party, Dr. Badiul Alam Majumdar told Bangla Insider, "If the government becomes authoritarian, can the Jatiya Party oppose it? They also have to take responsibility. They behave as if they are the opposition party. They are imitating the behavior of the opposition party in government. They also have some responsibilities. Their responsibility in the opposition party is to point out the government's mistakes and shortcomings. Ensure the accountability of the government. For this love, just as the government party is responsible, they are equally responsible."

Awami League Grand alliance

Comment