The BNP government has started adopting and implementing sector-based plans including various ministries as per the promises of its election manifesto. However, there is a lack of good governance in the ministries and sector-based activities. There is a lack of strict and specific position and direction against irregularities and corruption. Mismanagement and party influence continue. In addition, there is a lack of risk analysis-based work strategies. These are creating the risk of acting as obstacles to fulfilling the promises of the BNP’s election manifesto.
This observation has emerged in a research report by Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB). The study is titled ‘100 Days of the Government after the 13th National Parliament Election: Monitoring the Implementation of Good Governance and Anti-Corruption Commitments’.
The report was released at a press conference at the TIB office in Dhanmondi, the capital, on Sunday. The report was released by TIB Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman. The report was presented by TIB Senior Research Fellow Md. Zulkarnain and Research Fellow Razia Sultana.
The report observes that despite the government’s efforts to control the law and order situation after the formation of the government, declaring zero tolerance against mob culture, and issuing strict warnings against extortion, incidents of extortion, drug dealing, theft and robbery, etc., are still prevalent in various markets, transport sectors, bus stands, truck stands, etc. There are allegations of political and administrative patronage in these cases. Even a minister’s attempt to legitimize extortion has been widely criticized.
According to the observation, no visible initiative has been taken to form important commissions like the Anti-Corruption Commission, Human Rights Commission and Information Commission within 100 days of the formation of the government. As a result, the activities of controlling corruption, protecting human rights and ensuring the free flow of information face a long-term risk.
TIB’s observation says that despite the announcement of establishing good governance and controlling corruption from the top level of the government, the practice of a ‘now it’s our turn’ culture is noticeable among many of the ruling party’s leaders, workers, supporters, bureaucrats, businessmen and almost all professionals. Appointments and promotions continue to be made based on party and group considerations in the police, administration and various government institutions, Bangladesh Bank, various commercial banks, local governments, and educational institutions, which is contrary to the BNP’s election pledge.
The observation states that the rise of various religious forces in Bangladesh during the interim government and the continuation of violent and conspiratorial activities against the country’s multi-faith, multi-religious and cultural diversity have continued even under the elected government. It says that the latest examples are the attacks on the traditional Shah Ali shrine in Dhaka and a Pir in Kushtia, which are a warning sign for the countrymen who are the bearers of free thought, coexistence of socio-cultural and diversity, and tolerant behavior.
The observation noted that the initiative to convert 97 out of 133 ordinances issued during the interim government into laws is commendable. It said that by repealing or suspending for further scrutiny laws that are crucial to strengthening the institutional foundation of accountable governance, the ruling BNP government is effectively stepping back on important issues related to the independence of the judiciary, protection of human rights, combating corruption and preventing enforced disappearances.
The observation says that in order to turn the ordinances issued during the interim government into laws, laws related to the independence of the judiciary, protection of human rights, and anti-corruption could have been passed with minor amendments. But the government has canceled or suspended them. On the other hand, many laws that will strengthen the government’s hand in establishing the authority of the executive branch have been passed.
According to TIB’s observations, the government’s 100 days are promising and promising on the one hand. On the other hand, the lack of specific roadmaps or initiatives to fulfill the expectations of good governance, prevention of corruption, and especially the establishment of an accountable government is worrying.
Also present at the press conference were TIB Advisor-Executive Management Professor Sumaiya Khair, Director of Research and Policy Department Muhammad Badiuzzaman, Research Associate Md. Shahidul Islam, and others.
