A $29 million USAID fund has been allocated to Bangladesh initiatives aimed at the country's election accuracy, but criminals defraud it.
Shahinul Khalisdar
Tax Advisor | Business Advisor/ Taxation Expertise/ Enrolled Agent (EA)/Master of Science in Taxation (MST)/ Author
Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, a proud Bangladeshi Bengali father, once remarked, “While everyone else seems to inherit gold mines, I’ve ended up with thief mines.” His words resonate deeply in a nation that has faced significant challenges. Despite the United States offering financial assistance to bolster Bangladesh's political landscape, much of that money sadly vanished into the hands of the corrupt.
Bangladesh’s Political violence in 2006.
At the end of BNP's 2001–2006 term, the party attempted to appoint K. M. Hasan as Chief Advisor of the caretaker government. This move raised concerns among the Awami League regarding his neutrality, as they believed it could influence the election results. The immediate past Chief Justice was initially expected to be appointed as Chief Advisor. Amid uncertainty over the appointment, Awami League supporters began protests and demonstrations on 28 October, which became known as the “logi boitha” movement. This unrest resulted in at least 12 deaths and thousands of injuries.
The 2008 election.
Efforts were made to organize a fair and free election in Bangladesh during this period.
In the words of Bangladeshi Bengali father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, “Everyone gets gold mines, but I have got thief mines.” This poignant sentiment reflects the complex journey of Bangladesh, particularly in the realm of its political landscape.
The United States stepped in with financial assistance to bolster the political framework of Bangladesh, paving the way for significant electoral milestones. The December 2008 elections stood out as a beacon of hope for the nation. It wasn’t just a mere electoral event; it marked a triumph for Bangladesh Bengalis' political institutions, showcasing their ability to facilitate a peaceful transition of power—something that had often been marred by violence in the past.
This election brought traditional party politics back to life, allowing an impressive turnout of over 86%, with more women voting than men. For many ordinary citizens, it was their first time stepping into the voting booth! The election system itself demonstrated its resilience, as known corrupt figures were ousted or saw their power diminish significantly. For the international community that had invested so much in supporting a fair electoral process, this was a victory worth celebrating. Election observation reports confirmed that the elections broadly adhered to international standards, thanks to a clear ‘election roadmap’ and the establishment of a genuinely independent Election Commission (BEC).
The remarkable reform of the electoral process initiated by the BEC was a game-changer. Starting with an exemplary voter registration process in June 2007, the Commission gained critical credibility, ultimately registering eighty-one million voters with stunning accuracy by the time of the elections. Additionally, the introduction of new party rules helped pave the way for a more transparent political landscape.
The outcome? A stunning landslide victory for the Awami League (AL), securing 230 seats in the 300-seat assembly against the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), which clinched only 29 seats. Among those entering parliament were eighteen women, including the leaders of both major parties, with an additional forty-five women making their way in through nominations.
The international community played a pivotal yet secondary role in this electoral success, ensuring that the elections went ahead smoothly and supporting the roadmap that guided the process. Their involvement—financial, technical, and diplomatic—was crucial, showcasing the intricate connections between various forms of assistance that enhanced the effectiveness of the 2008 elections.
Prior to the declaration of a State of Emergency in January 2007, donor engagement was limited. However, the formation of a Caretaker Government (CTG) reignited diplomatic conversations, with several UK Ministers visiting Bangladesh to address key challenges. Political support was bolstered by an impressive $100 million aid package that provided extensive technical engagement alongside flexible support.
Organizations like UNDP, with their decade-long involvement, nurtured relationships with Election Commission staff, while the National Democratic Institute and International Republican Institute contributed invaluable insights from their work on political party reforms. The Asia Foundation’s long-standing history of collaborating with a diverse range of civil society actors fostered essential synergies across various support initiatives. Notably, the BBC enriched the political discourse by broadcasting engaging debates.
Two dedicated basket funds were established—one managed by The Asia Foundation, focusing on domestic election observation through the NGO Election Working Group, and the other by UNDP, overseeing critical voter registration efforts. Through meticulous scenario planning and risk analyses, the support provided proved timely and effective.
Evaluations commissioned by donors reflect positively on the overall impact of these endeavors. The Program for Electoral Roll with Photographs (PERP) emerged as a cornerstone of success, addressing voter registration challenges through collaborative efforts involving the army, civil servants, civil society, and the international community. The National Election Program (NEP) also demonstrated effectiveness, training 135,000 domestic election monitors and involving 360 international observers. A survey assessing the BBC’s media efforts revealed that a staggering 18 to 21 million Bangladeshis tuned in to watch the mayoral debate, underscoring the election's widespread significance and engagement.
This election cycle was not just about casting votes; it was a powerful statement about the resilience and democratic spirit of the Bangladeshi Bengali people.
Bangladeshi Foreign Policy
Many Bangladeshi Bengalis hold the belief that the world is eager to invest trillions of dollars in their country, often referring to Bangladesh as the "land of gold." While this idea can seem appealing, it's ultimately more of a fantasy than a reality.
In order to genuinely convince the international community to support Bangladesh, a robust political and intellectual strategy is essential. A notable figure in this arena is the brilliant Shah Azizur Rahman, who played a pivotal role in re-establishing Bangladesh's foreign relations with key players like the USA, UK, and Gulf nations, often drawing on the wisdom and advice from my father.
It's crucial to acknowledge that no country will engage with Bangladesh out of sheer goodwill. History has shown us that Mujib's attempts to shape a successful foreign policy for Bangladesh fell short, highlighting the ongoing challenges that need to be addressed in our international relations.
The End
For years, starting back in the 1990s, I've dedicated myself to supporting Bangladesh from the shadows, doing everything I can to make a positive impact behind the scenes. It became shockingly clear that every single MP was embroiled in criminal activities and corruption, plundering the nation's aid right under the public's nose.
As the world’s political landscape shifts, I find myself bidding farewell to the mindset shaped by Bangladesh. It’s time for me to embrace life and savor my freedom a bit more. My grandfather dedicated his life to aiding the East Bengali Proza Muslims since 1906, a legacy that my father carried on with pride. But now, I feel it’s time to draw the curtain on that chapter. It’s crucial for Bangladeshi Bengalis to carve their own path forward and discover their unique journey.
Bangladeshi Bengalis think that the entire political system is a mockery and joke. They envision a time when the world, much like the East India Company in the seventeenth century, will flock to Bangladesh, transforming all of them into powerful Zamindars, basking in wealth and influence.
Crafting a successful foreign policy is no easy feat; it demands a sharp political mind and a deep understanding of both national and international interests. A single misstep can have devastating consequences—just look at the 100 years of subjugation experienced under the East India Company. It’s a reminder that navigating the complexities of diplomacy requires precision and foresight. Not a joke. ?