In front of a very selectively invited media and personnnel, in the 9th Division ( Gen Masud’s) hosted event he also adds that
He would raise issue of prosecuting war criminals;
Asserts that it is time to fight corrupt politicians;
Proposes auction of seized cars to build hospitals for poor.
Among other attendees, prominent were AL MP freedome fighter Asaduzzaman Noor and Golam Kuddus of shommilito Shangskritik jote.
*************************************
How should we react? Should we be happy and thank the Army chief for doing the right thing and speaking the truth? Should we start looking for any hidden meaning? Should we suspect any long term planning or conspiracy? Or Should see it as an indicator of a new polarization in Bangladesh politics? Or it is only a lip service to somehow convince the Awami League supporters and leadership to support the current CTG?
What do you think?
In the Middle of Nowhere 
March 28, 2007 at 3:56 am
I believe he just spoke his mind; no other meaning underneath. From today’s newspaper I also came to know that CG is accepting Zia as the proclaimer of independence, just that he (Zia) declared independence in the name of Bongobondhu Sheikh Mujib. I believe this is closer to truth than the other versions of the history of the declaration of independence being publicized by the two parties and their supporters.
March 28, 2007 at 4:32 am
As one who has known Gen Moeen since his school days, I will say without any reservations, that he has always been a straight shooter. He means what he says and does what he promises.
I would not infer any conspiracy from his speech. In fact, I strongly agree with his statements. Isn’t it time that we get our history right, give credit where it is due. As we are finding out, the unfortunate title of being the “most corrupt country”, truly reflects the state of affairs in our nation and by vowing to fight corruption, we will only improve the lot of our common masses.
Let us not rush to get back to the days of “pseudo-democracy” and massive corruption. Let us build a proper foundation for true democracy that would allow educated, honest individuals to serve the nation, who would not seek the position as an opportunity to enrich their family and relatives for many generations to come.
March 28, 2007 at 4:37 am
It’s too early to make any comment. I say lets take it positively.
One thing I am little worried that Maj Syaeed Iskander is still outside the bars.
Another curiosity I have is how all of a sudden Army has become so good that we can’t even believe it to be true. Were they always like that and just waited to loose patience on the political leaders?
-Sharmin
March 28, 2007 at 5:16 am
I just want to thank Gen Moin U Ahmed for
His true statement. At least we can show some respect to our founder.
March 28, 2007 at 5:22 am
I found this very interesting. Gen. Moyeen spoke amidst pro-AL and pro-BNP retired army officials turned politicians. Some top current army officials including General Masud was present on this occasion. Another news on the side was that verdict in one of Ershad’s cases was postponed again. As I recall, there were no ex-army politicians on the corrupted list (people like Mir Shawkat Ali or ex-home minister Altaf Hossain Chy had many allegations of corruption and terrorism). There may be some army officials who have close ties with /are still loyal to these politicians. One thing seems clear; the army is trying to maintain unity at the home front amid speculations/rumors of ongoing power struggle between pro-AL and pro-BNP factions (Zafar Sobhan’s thread).
It has been reported that some prominent members of the civil society were present on this occasion (I only got Justice KM Sobhan’s and Asaduzzaman Noor’s name). My guess is, the distance between the army and the ‘Sushil Shamaj’ will slowly fade. Part of the ‘Sushil Shamaj’ will come together as a group and probably will join NS. This is the ‘third force’ that will be backed by the army. The process has begun. Already there are rumors of young AL leaders breaking away (http://www.prothom-alo.org/index.news.details.php?nid=NTExNw=) and strong resentments within BNP is old news. With most of the corrupt partisans and politicians behind the bar, a party with DMY, young AL leaders (may be A Noor or Saber H Chowdhury), BNP veterans like A Mannan Bhuyian, Dr. Kamal, technocrats, and members from civil society backed by the army will have no problem running from 300 constituencies (which may still be a problem) and winning it. This ‘third force’ will give people the middle ground that everybody’s looking for. The middle ground where nobody will have a problem to accept Bangabandhu as the ‘Father of the Nation’ and Ziaur Rahman will be ensured his place in history too. General Moyeen’s speech to me is the first indication that this ground has been created; where you can stand up and say something like this and still not get labeled as AL or BNP partisan.
Too many speculations?? Maybe!
ps: On different note, if I am the most wanted person in the country, I wouldn’t be sitting home with an unlicensed revolver and eight bullets, would I? Poor G Mamun! Can’t the JF come up with better stories?!
March 28, 2007 at 5:24 am
In his speech Lt Gen Moeen also said corrupt politicians smuggled their money overseas, including at least Tk 20,000 crore smuggled off shore from the energy sector alone in last 5 years.
Earlier some leaders of AL raise similar allegation. At that time we think that it was politically motivated. Army Chief cannot said any politically motivated statement, he must be said it from their investigations and findings.
His proposal for auction of seized cars to build hospitals for poor is a good idea. Now, CTG must be bringing back those Tk. 20,000 crore. With this Tk. 20,000 crore we can build 4,000 megawatt power plant. We need not to go for strict conditional loan from ADB/ World Bank or any foreign investor (who make super profit from poor people of Bangladesh).
March 28, 2007 at 7:10 am
I would take it positively. Bangabandhu should get his proper place in BD history. Recognizing him as the father of nation is surely a commendable move by the Army chief.
He also talks about the punishment of the war criminals. This cannot be done without help from the army. At least the top rajakars and al badars should be punished.
March 28, 2007 at 7:34 am
A senior Army officer’s statement along those lines is interesting primarily because it is essentially a sea-change in viewpoint.
General Ershad’s “ascension” to CMLA was considered (by a lot of Army officers) the rise of the “Pakistan ferot” officer cadre — obviously at the expense of the “muktijoddha” cadre.
Since then, there had always been a reticence amongst officers (especially if they had ambitions towards the General List)to talk too much about the Liberation War.
His statements are therefore a refreshing change and I agree with Tanoy (#4): perhaps it’s time to accept the fact that
1. Major Zia did make the declaration
2. That he did so in the name of (certainly taking inspiration from) Sheikh Mujib
March 28, 2007 at 8:07 am
No, there is no reason to look for conspiracy! You know, some people usually try to find some ‘conspiracy theory’when something does not suit to their own opinion/ideology/liking/believe(and thats not unusual)! But,my question here is, Is there any little doubt that whatever Gen. Moin has said, should have been agreed by every concious Bangladeshi citizen since Independence?
I salute Gen Moin for uttering this truth, better late than never. Pl read the following links on this:
http://www.amadershomoy.com/news.php?id=149381&sys=3
http://www.prothom-alo.org/archive/news_details_home.php?dt=2007-03-27&issue_id=204&nid=NTA2OQ==
March 28, 2007 at 12:30 pm
I think there is nothing more to it than uttering his inner feelings and expressions of his patriotism. Above all criticism of Bangabandhu, it can’t’ be denied that he is the father of the nation and one of the main founding members of our country which has been pushed to the back for a very long time.
March 28, 2007 at 3:00 pm
If this is all sincere, the next step is for the army to take a stand on the 1975 Mujib killing case, and ensure its swift completion.
They should also let us know what they think about the news today about Mohiuddin’s delayed deportation.
March 28, 2007 at 5:43 pm
When the CEO of a company talks to the stake holders on the company’s performance in the last quarter, they highlight “what we can do that our competitors can NOT”. That’s their job. Nothing wrong with it.
Gen Moeen did something like that, glorifying the actions of the army that helped form the current CG.
A company benefits from a great CEO. But then there had been few that actually robbed from the employees, by keeping in the dark, and fabricating the profit margin. Case in point: ENRON collapse.
March 28, 2007 at 6:39 pm
Bangladesh Army Chief Moeen U Ahmed’s recent comment that the nation has failed to recognise ‘Father of nation’ – apparently referring to Late Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, may very well be viewed as his bias towards Sheikh Mujib and Awami League. It is also likely to be seen as an attempt to start the process of officially confer that title to him.
I for one, also believe that it was not necessary to bring up this controversial issue in a speech on the auspicious independence day of the nation as many Bangladeshis do not support the idea.
In his speech he goes out of the way by boasting — “After the proclamation of the state of emergency, I told the inspector general of police that I don’t want to see anybody doing any harm or torch a single garment factory.” – referring to the recent declaration of emergency rule in Bangladesh.
“Have a look, because of this single instruction, nobody dared to do anything destructive even after two months,” he said.
In reality, the official chain of command does not give Mr.Moeen the authority to give any orders to the Inspector general of police.
By giving these type of statements, he will only undermine the legitimate authority(yes, the current government is legitimate and constitutional) of the interim government led by Dr.Fakhruddin Ahmed by giving an impression that there is a parallel government run by the Army Chief.
It is true that this government is backed by the defence forces, however, its public role should be limited to whatever is assigned to it by the interim government. Mr. Moeen Ahmed is not part of that government — he is the the Chief of army staff, whose job is to primarily defend the country from outside aggression. General Moeen is by no means the head of this government and he should stop projecting his power in speeches.
While in general, I agree with Mr. Moeen that Bangladesh politicians have so far divided the country rather than unite it, I do not agree with this idea of ‘Father of the Nation’. Isn’t ‘Bongobondhu’ – Friend of Bengalis- enough for him? Do Bangladeshis really need another official title for him?
With due respect Sheikh Mujib is not the only leader in the history of Bangladesh — in fact, the very idea of an independent East Pakistan started with ‘Sher-e-Bangla’-Tiger of Bengal- Fazlul Haque, so should Bangladeshis have another title like ‘Grand Father of Nation’ for him?
I personally hold Late Moulana Bhashani in more esteem than any other national leaders for his Gandhi-like qualities. He is also popularly known as Mozloom Jananeta – the leader of the oppressed – which I think sticks to his name to this day more naturally than any of the titles of the other leaders I mentioned above. Last but not least, What about General Ziaur Rahman? What title people of Bangladesh will give him for declaring independence of Bangladesh from Chittagong radio on that fateful day in 1971?
To sum it up, all of these leaders and many others, made their contributions to the emergence of Bangladesh as an independent nation. Sheikh Mujib united the nation by his fiery speeches and united the Bengalis in then East Pakistan and I salute him for that but he is by no means the only great leader of Bangladesh and I am not ready to accept this idea of ‘Father of the Nation’ status for him.
Let us give our leaders whatever is due to them but let us not promote personality cult and hero worshipping. Have we forgot that General Ershad’s name is now synonymous with tyranny and corruption even though he took the title ‘Palli Bandhu’ – friend of villagers – during his tyrannical rule?
March 29, 2007 at 12:12 am
I won’t be in the least surprised if these inane father/not-father debates run for the next 50 years. Never say we Bengalis don’t know how to flog a dead horse…
March 29, 2007 at 3:21 am
I’m totally dismayed by the recent tea-party talk and lecture-series by GMUA, the army chief. He and his army have blantantly violated constitution taking over the power with the camouflage of Interim Government. He is constantly lying to the nation. He hushed Prof Iajuddin and forced him to read the speech drafted by them as we have seen Iajuddin all on sudden changing his stand and declaring State of emergency.
I personally welcomed the government it was unconstitutional, though. Because the constitution is for people, but not the vice versa.
It was good thing to uproot corruption from every levels especially from politicians, government and corpoarate officials and greedy businessmen. And I also hoped that they will clean the political mess heaped up for last 36 years taking neutral stand to depolarize nation; they will help healing and create a congenial atmosphere for free, fair and credible election even it takes a couple of years.
But my dream has been dimmed so much by the GMUA’s recent speeches. He clearly frustrated the majority who besides developed and corruption-free society, have their own social, cultural, religious and political ideology. GMUA is hurting those silent majority taking certain political side. He lost his credibility and the current government will definitely fail to present so demanded a level playing field.
Army chief is telling lies. He said they are not running the country from behind, rather just helping the DFUA’s interim government. People are not stupid to fail to assess their steps and goals. Every major decision is coming from handful of military leaders and their yes-sir advisers.
If they really didn’t have big role in this government then GMUA shouldn’t have come of barrack, toured and lectured the nation from Teknaf to Tetulia.
The previous political governments had politicized, as complained about, all sectors including educational institues/civil services/judiciary. But GMUA, GMUC et al are politicizing the military and it is the worst crime for them.
How these military leaders will create level playing field where people will choose their representatives whom they like without being influnenced by negative elements or being intimedated while the army chief speakss like Hasina and her spoke-persons.
I was upset when he indicated that 20 thousands crores of takas has been looted only from electricity sector. He told it as if it has already been proven by hair-spliting investigation. His notion hints that BNP alliance did all the corruptions and looted all wealth during the last 5 years while Awami league was a doa-tulshi pata at their tenure. It’s absolutely non-sense. He has not right to talk like foul-mouthed politicians.
There are ACC and other bodies and the burden is on them to prove those alleged corruptions. GMUA is solely incriminating the BNP alliance that had once 2/3rd majority in the parliament while indemnifying the Awamileague. Whereas we got our stigmatous title of ‘The Champion of Corruption” at the time of Haina, and our transparency score was 4% then; while we got rid of the title last year during BNP time it’s transparency score was 20%, indicating BNP goverment was 5 time more transparent than Awami government.
The army will be no more a positive healing agent. GMUA has been futher faring-up the nation’s sores.
If they could do something positive for the nation then people will ratify their jobs, otherwise, they have to faec the wrath of people.
Any menu of GMUA will not be acceptable to people. Their gun power can’t force feed the people. Who’s father of the nation and who is the declarer of Independence and in what degree they should be recognized– these are the people’s issues and choices. He can’t dictate what people will do. For the greater good, there should be a national consensus on them. That should come from the dialogue among the people and their honest political representatives,not by the Army. Respect should come spontaneously from people.
If somebody force me to feed the pills of Father of the nation 3 times a day, I will have them out either by throwing up or diarrhea as I don’t believe in the concept of Father of Nation. To me it’s an obscene word. How a once proud son the mother become the father of the nation, the father of own brothers and sisters or the husband of one’s own mother, a genuine OEDIPUS-COMPlEX. Founding leader or architect to me is not a problem.
GMUA should stop lying lectures and cheating the nation. If among about 150 million people there is no body to protest and condemn his irresponsible unjustified unwarranted rubbish remarks I am the one who strongly condemn his divisive biased statement and demand immediate apology from him to the nation.
If not, I will urge Iajuddin to fire this guy and put him under court martial for breaking the army rules politicizing and undermining our army and the national security.
Thanks.
March 29, 2007 at 3:24 am
Well said, Zubaer!
Why would anyone doubt that Mujib is the Father of the Nation? True, he didn’t match up to expectations during 72-75, but that’s no reason to diminish his contribution for our Independence. I was eight years old in 1971, yet even at that age I could tell that Mujib was our main inspiration — it was so ubiquitous and obvious.
Consider two well known examples:
(1) Winston Churchill lost the post war election, but the Brits don’t distort his contribution during WWII.
(2) On the other hand, there are those who try to prove that the Holocaust never happened.
In terms of our respect for accurate representation of history, we seem to have more in common with the second group of people.
Sad isn’t it?
March 29, 2007 at 5:01 am
My salute to the chief of staff for his brave comments!
March 29, 2007 at 6:34 am
Russoue,
Agree with you 100%. I for one will not look for an agenda here but rather look for the effect it may have on this debate (on a non issue). His speech will go a long way in taking Bangabandhu away from Awami League and giving back to Bangladesh where he belongs.
We are plagued with so many issues. We really need to close this chapter and move on. The debate has been kept alive for a few selfish politicians who find it easier to get their political workers motivated by keeping this rivalry alive. The josh that some people get out of keeping this issue up and degrading the leaders is evident from the comment above of bitterboy/ttler. I believe barring from a few partisan eternal Mujib haters like him, the majority of the country is unified in this issue. They are more concerned about much more pressing issues concerning their future and day to day lives than to debate on non-issues like this. Let’s declare him Father of the nation and give him his rightful place in history and move on.
I wrote this sometime ago in DS about Bangabandhu and his connection (rather non connection) to the new generation. This may be a worthwhile read to some.
http://www.thedailystar.net/2005/08/15/d50815090170.htm
March 29, 2007 at 7:22 am
Well said Kaiser (#16).
Churchill, iconic as he is did not get a “name”. When you really think about it, any name would cheapen the contribution he made. Considering his views on India and class, he is also not a singularly blameless figure.
By the same token Sheikh Mujib was also a singular figure in the birth history of Bangladesh, and also not entirely blameless in its history afterwards.
So let us put him where he is, along with Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani, AK Fazlul Haq, Zia-ur Rahman, et al. They have names, let’s not cheapen them with titles.
And move on. We have more pressing matters at hand.
March 29, 2007 at 8:23 am
Bitterboy #15″.. How ..father of the nation, a genuine OEDIPUS-COMPlEX..”.
Its really interesting to see how the concept of FoN has been interpreted by Bitterboy here!So far I thought it was only those illiterate/half educated “Mullahs” in our society who try to interpret things ‘sexually’. This sort of misleading interpretations are usually presented by Jamati Leaders for our illiterate section of people. But I am really surprised (as I believe Bitterboy is a quiet learned guy)to see this funny explaination on the “word-meaning” here!
Asif#18. Well said Asif..thanks for your comment
“..barring from a few partisan eternal Mujib haters like him, the majority of the country is unified in this issue.”-I do believe the same.
March 29, 2007 at 11:10 am
Here is a good explanation on the title and what other countries have such person
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Father_of_the_Nation
Father of the Nation is a term used by many countries to describe a political or symbolic leader seen as a founding father of the nation. He may also be key figure from the nation’s history whose perceived heroism and moral authority make him a source of patriotic inspiration and worthy of respect or veneration. His image is often elevated to that of a national symbol and is likely to be featured on items such as banknotes, stamps and national memorabilia. In some countries, a cult of personality may also be established about him.
March 29, 2007 at 12:10 pm
I just want to say No Comments on Bitter boy.
Rather I was enjoying his comments . same
Bitter boy was praising so much on Bangladesh
Army. Now I think things are become just opposite.
But I am just asking Bitter boy some thing
Do You have any proof or evidence in hand on
particular this comment
“He is constantly lying to the nation. He hushed Prof Iajuddin and forced him to read the speech drafted by them as we have seen Iajuddin all on sudden changing his stand and declaring State of emergency.”
Just don’t forget you are in public forum and you are a responsible man.
As a senior Bologer if you claim any thing
Please make sure at least you have 5% logic on such claim.
March 29, 2007 at 12:48 pm
I would urge respected readers not to go off track. This is not a thread to debate who is the founding father or father of nation. There is nothing to debate on this issue anymore. That is a waste of time. Bangbandhu has his unique place in history, it will not vanish if someone tells otherwise.
The debate should be on why Gen Moeen would suddenly start a publicity string, speaking national fundamental issues as well as petty political talks too.
About Bangabandhu, if his sole intention is to take Bangabandhu away fromn AL’s hand and give him back to the state, to be respected officially by the state, I’ll welcome the move.
As many said it is a bold step. Definitely it is.
Just see this thread. See bitterboy. bitterboy is a intense BNP supporter. And see how suddenly Gen Moeen has become the villaine to him. And we should remember that bitterboy does not represent him only, he represently sizable portion of Bangladesh, at least a smaller part of BNP-Jamaats vote base. On the otherhand, this is the first time I see tanoy defending the military chief.
So in the short term, Gen Moeen may have sounded like a divider. I hope and wish in the long term, it does not haunt him or his millions of supporters/wellwishers.
We always need to take lesson from history. Remember after the 3rd november countre revolution by Khaled Mosharraf, only one procession by Khaled’s brother and mother ( AL leaders) was enough to ruin the whole revolution, Khaled and other lives as well as the lives of 4 national leader ( at the hand of that Mohiuddin AKM Ahmed).
At the end, someone has to come up and do the daring thing. If Gen Moeen is intended on doing the barve and right thing, I am behind him.
March 29, 2007 at 1:07 pm
Comment #23,
The almost always happens to people trying to tell the truth and help the country. I can mention two great dailies – Prothom Alo and Daily Star – that are routinely grilled by Janakantha and Dinkal alike. PA and DS may not be 100% clean, but definitely far better than the other two I mentioned. Similarly, General Moen may not be the perfect chief of army, but he along with his force are doing an extraordinary job in “bringing back Bangladesh”!
March 29, 2007 at 1:43 pm
No Rumi Bhai I am not defending Army Chief in here. I was just asking for the logic behind such claim on dominating Iaj Uddin.
See I Just want to say ” Please say white to white and gray to gray.”
And Yes CNC has already paid respect to father of the Nation.He deserves thanks
for that.
But that does not mean I start to defend him. Another thing is that I hate personal
Attack.
March 29, 2007 at 1:45 pm
It is so pathetic for us as a nation that Gen M is the first person in high command that has spoken loudly that Jatir Pitaa title should be officially bestowed on Mujibur Rahman.
[How did the past generals honor him? Zia sent the killers of BongoBandhu in safe heaven. Ershad not only continued to appoint them in diplomatic missions, but approved back pay to many who were suspended without salary for a couple of years.]
Gen Moeen appears to be a good guy, but we as Bangladeshis had been burnt way too many times by the generals who rise for the occasions, pump us up with hopes then turn out to be just another tyrant.
And most obviously he is glorifying the deeds of army almost on a daily basis. It is a very conscious and deliberate approach on his part (not sporadic). He is trying to send a message to the mass that army understands their sentiment, and wants what the mainstream BD wants.
March 29, 2007 at 2:09 pm
I like to make a request, at this time attempted national unification, we should not start trying division again.
Respecting Mujib should not be at the cost of late Zia. At the same time, we must give them their respective places, I’ll honor Bangabandhu and pat the back of people who do it, and at the same time constantly keep on trashing Zia, that is not probably the call of the day.
If today, I say what bad Zia did, tomorrow ten other people will come up with ten other bad things other people did.
Do we really want this forum turn into, again, Mujib-Zia supporters mudslinging?
I hate Zia, its fine. But can’t I show some restrain in expressing my rabid hatred against Zia at this specific time? Dividing and mudslinging do not help any one.
March 29, 2007 at 2:19 pm
as a good friend remarked
ei mujib-zia bitorko diya to blog bhoira gelo, man — ppl in bd do this debate 24/7/365 and now it’s come to the blog as well.
March 29, 2007 at 2:33 pm
What Zia/Ershad “chose” to do has everything to do with why/how the perpetrators roamed free for THIRTY-ONE years.
It has not much to do with Zia-bashing. Zia did a lot of good things for Bangladesh. He was the most energetic head of state (/government) we’ve ever had. He traveled all over BD almost every week. He never looted public money. He was all for rebuilding a war torn BD – planting trees, digging canals for irrigation. His idea on creating SAARC was phenomenal.
But he did have lapses – one of the big one relates to one of the most heinous and grisly murder episode in the history of Bangladesh that involved three residences – Mujibur’s, Sheikh Moni’s and Minister Serneyabat’s (Mujib’s brother-in-law).
They even went to Col Jamil’s house, picked him up and killed him.[note: Col Jamil was killed by them on the road]All in one night. 26 human beings dead. When someone in authority does nothing to persecute them, does he not indirectly support those unforgivable actions? He was ruthless in the highest degree. But let’s not focus on Zia.
I’ll start a thread on “Army’s involvement in BD politics since 71” soon and we’ll continue our discussion there.
FYI: I don’t deny Zia’s contribution to Bangladesh, especially during Shadhinota Juddho. Just that some of the things he did shouldn’t be overlooked. I mentioned Zia/Ershad in the context of Army-chiefs-paying-tribute-to-Mujib. I did not mean it to make it a Mujib-Zia issue.
March 29, 2007 at 3:34 pm
Zafa apa you say:
“They even went to Col Jamil’s house, picked him up and killed him”
Col Jamil was killed on the road, he was the first person to move towards Bongobondho’s house to save him, he was killed by the army on the road, I mean the army personal who were involved and surrounded the 3 mile radius all around Sheikhs house right in front of the intersection of Shobhan bagh and sukrabad ( GainKosh-Snowwhite)
The tall, honest and handsome guy was none but a very close friend of my (Late) uncle and a regular commuter and a tea partner of my(Late) beloved father, in the evening at our house,because they have had lot of things in common.
We heard a lot about him growing up.He was a very social and honest army personal.
No, I am not defending any body, I just put the true history.
I believe with Sheikh Mujibs,his killer should also to be brought infront of justice. That will give some consiliation to his bereaved family.
Thanks
KJ
March 29, 2007 at 3:42 pm
Thanks for the correction on col Jamil KJ.
You are right.
He was on his way to Mujib residence that night when he suspected (or heard?) that something grave was about to happen.
March 29, 2007 at 4:21 pm
My last comment on this issue and agin only to set the record straight.
It should not ony be Zia-Ershad. It was AL( BAKSAL)/ Khaled Mosharraf/ Col Taher/ Zia/Ershad who all collectively let the klillers get loose.
After Bangabandhu murder, it was all AL leaders who lined up in Bangavaban to take oath as ministers ( except 4 who were killed). Almost no AL leader at home and abroad made one single protest. The one man who protested and took up arms was kader Siddiqui.
This Mustaq -AL leader led govt coexisted with the majors at Bangabhavan till 3 November. Then after Khaled’s coup, he did not touch any of them including Mustaq. Then after 7 th November when Taher was in charge and his soldiers killed many officers, did allow the 15th august majors slip the killing spree.
If you read some objective literature on Zia, you wuill know that Zia, a ruthless military chief he was, would love to see these 15th August majors brought to court martial. He also needed that for his own authority and benefit. But the then political situation, internation interests made it difficult for him to do that.
March 29, 2007 at 4:58 pm
#23: Rumi – agree
#27: Rumi – Agree
This thread had so much potential as to the future implications of GMoeen’s comment in BD politics.
Some Islami Chhatra Shibir and Tableeg Jamaat people used to come to our medical hostel and would keep on convincing us of their ways. They were so relentless that at the end we would agree to everything they said just to get out of the argument (‘thik bolsen, bhai’, ‘apnar kothai thik’) even though we did not believe in it or cared a bit anymore about that issue. I feel like saying the same thing to the two arguing parties here.
But can’t help pitching in my 2 cents. There are two debates regarding the FoN of BD.
1. Do we need a FoN title? Personally, I don’t care if we have a father of the nation or not.
2. If we need one (if majority decides ‘yes’). Sheikh Mujib is definitely the top contender and my vote is for him. His post-liberation role is highly disappointing (to me), but cannot deny his leadership in the liberation movement.
Some will agree to these points and some will not. I will learn to live with that. Finally, to echo Rumi’s words, ‘Mujibke namaya Zia ke boro kora jabe na, Zia ke namaya mujib ke boro kora jabe na’. They both had made significant contributions, both had lapses, they should have their places in history accordingly.
March 29, 2007 at 5:02 pm
For 32:objective literature on Zia
1.Why you try to find army ruler objective literature ?
2. How many army killed within army trial in Zia?
3. 99% yes vote in so called democracy of Zia.
4.Political patrons of anti liberation force.
5.Why Earshed is bad than Zia?
6.Are you busy to find that two leaders are equal contribution in 71?
March 29, 2007 at 5:26 pm
Looking at the heightened emotion this brings up i wonder if this is one of those matters to just leave alone because people go nut over it and jump into either personalities defence despite very imcomplete information.
After all the general was talking to Mukti Bahini veterans on Independance Day. The ‘make hospitals out of the seized property of the decadent’ statement is a nice sentiment, though perhaps not the most effective conversion of nationalised wealth to health service. I hope he doesn’t stray too far outside his competance.
Fatherhood of nation is a weird idea in the first place but its going to stick with us for a while at least. The Indians have Nehru and Gandhi, the Malaysians have Tunku Abdur Rahman and the Pakistanis have Md Ali Jinnah (or perhaps better Allama Iqbal).
Grandfathers of the Nations should also be appreiciated, maybe its easier because their struggles arent so caught up in the political capitalisation of the parties today. The actions, charachter, capabilities and limitations of people like Suhrawardhi, Fazlul Haque and Maulana Bhashani are a less fashionable treasure trove to dive into and swim about i suppose.
#33 Shahed, do Tablighi Jamat people openly talk about politics in Bangladesh when they do their 3 day/40 day stints?
March 29, 2007 at 5:41 pm
Fugstar,
Not politics. I was referring to ‘Islamic lifestyle’ when I talked about ‘their ways’. The comparison was metaphorical.
March 29, 2007 at 7:27 pm
Great comments by Mahfuz Anam in DS editorial (adding two more great leaders along with Mujibur Rahman who deserve long due credits in the history):
…..
General Ziaur Rahman should also be given his due place in history. As a sector commander and as a valiant freedom fighter, the nation owes him a great debt of gratitude as it does to all our sector commanders. But there are other roles, as a President, as the founder of BNP and the conceiver of SAARC, in which his contribution needs to be evaluated. In addition, there is a special historical incident that sets him apart from the rest of the sector commanders for which Ziaur Rahman needs to be especially honoured. He made the announcement of declaration of independence on 27th March, 1971, in Bangabandhu’s name. It was an incident of tremendous historical and psychological significance. I, as a young political activist, along with thousands of others, heard him over the radio, uttering those electrifying words of declaration of independence that worked like a magic in energizing us and giving us the crucial hope of winning the coming struggle.
There are the other heroes, especially Tajuddin Ahmed who has been totally neglected in our history. Both Awami League and the BNP were so engrossed in promoting their respective leaders that they overlooked the crucial contribution of the wartime prime minister of our government in exile. But for his dexterous leadership and deft handling of the wartime government there would not have been the smooth functioning of the Mujib Nagar government. His keeping the ego-strung and self-absorbed young Turks at bay required both firmness and persuasive skills that few others had. Not only during the war, Tajuddin was the behind the scene organiser of the Awami League while Bangabandhu was its charismatic public face. He was pivotal in organising the movement for independence at the grassroots level. He was a thinker, a strategist and a tough negotiator. Without him heading the Mujib Nagar government it is hard to conceive the mobilization of international support that proved so crucial for our struggle.
…..
March 29, 2007 at 7:53 pm
Bitterboy
1971 and 2007, 36 years passed and still trying to hang on clarifying history. Good drive in concreting and sealing off the business of hanging on. Well it should not be far reaching for a citizen with little wisdom to get insight of the events those created our motherland. Facts are otherwise known by all (of course who all desired to know). To my little wisdom, the FREEDOM was powered by Mujib’s vision followed by Zia’s supportive declaration. As such inevitable contributions of Muzib and Zia really caused the birth of Bangladesh. Scale of contributions may differ from one to another. But does it really matter any way? Are not they our national heroes? Why should we think them as private property of some political party and divide ourselves?
To me these are simply stupid political agenda and not the agenda regarding the reform for creating a situation favourable for election which is the agenda of CTG.
However, the question raised why Army Chief had to touch upon this agenda? Well while viewing casually, it was possibly the group of addressee those made it relevant. And while deepen my view, possibly he felt the urgency of sealing off the history with actual ingredients and move forward…………what else it could be? May be many more……those are to hypothesis only……………lets look and move forward. We may not have any more chance to reform ourselves as it appeared now. And if we loose this chance, may we will loose it forever…………………Bye.
March 29, 2007 at 9:34 pm
As a nation, are we so entangled in the jilapir petch of Politics of History, that we cannot isolate our life& death priorities (like economy, devt and corruption), from our social history?
The question is not WHY Gen Muin made that Mujib comment, but the question is:
Is our current condition of one of the poorest, most corrupt, most undeveloped nation a result of our Politics of History?
My definition of “most developed nations” are those that fight the politics of the FUTURE, that gear their democracy around how to develop their nation for the years ahead – and are we in Bangladesh gearing our democracy of 150 million people around who should get what title, based on the past?
Unless Gen Moin made the Mujib (and Zia) comments casually, he must be cautious that connecting issues of historical controversy with national development agenda, like rooting-out corruption as a major priority, will be more counter-productive than effective.
Perhaps Gen Muin just wants to get over this thorn in his cap – the Mujib Zia squabble once for all, and get on with the Nation Building agenda, that we are so anxious to support.
March 29, 2007 at 10:00 pm
I agree to Mr. Mahfuz anam. Mr. Tazuddin Ahmed is the most neglected hero in BD history. It was due to his strong role in 1971, the US backed conspiracy of dividing the freedom fighters was foiled. His phenomenal leadership in 1971 must be recognized. Due to internal clash within the AL, he had problems with Bangabandhu, and as a result had to step down from the finance ministry. But he never back-stabbed Mujib, for which he had to ultimately get brutally killed on Nov 3.
I also support Mahfuz Anam that Zia should get his deserving place in history. He read the declaration of independence on behalf of Mujib on March 27, 1971. Although the same declaration was read by MA Hannan/ Abul Kashem Sandip (based on a wireless message sent by Mujib) before, but Zia’s declaration had two important features:
1. The broadcast could reach most of the parts of BD, which was not the case with the earlier ones.
2. The declaration from an army personnel that they are at war meant a lot for the millions of Bangladeshi who got horrified witnessing the ruthless massacre by the Pak Army on March 25. It conveyed the message that we are not only dying without resistance, we are resisting them and fighting for our independence. So Zia must be duly honored for this declaration.
Although history says it was Major Rafiq with his EPR boys who first revolted against the Pak Army on March 24, but had to retract until March 25, 8 pm because of strategic issues. Zia and the 2nd East Bengal regiment revolted on March 26 just after midnight. Together Rafiq and Zia formed our first armed resistance in Kumira front. Just after that, Khaled Mosharraf and Major Jalil revolted on March 26. Shafiullah did that on March 28. All these army officers revolted independently. But,the chittagong revolt had an unique effect because the Shadhin Bangla betar kendro declaration. Major Rafiq is still alive and so are many of the Shadhin Bangla Betar kendro officials and many of the freedom fighters who fought for Zia and Rafiq. The true history of our liberation war must be restored, and I feel none other than the current govt can ensure that.
March 29, 2007 at 10:15 pm
Another feature of our early resistance which is usually ignored, is the role of our police force. On March 26 after midinight, our police men fought valiantly against the well equipped Pak army in the Rajarbagh police line. They perished pretty quickly, but the courage that they have shown is surely praiseworthy. There was some resistance from the students of Iqbal Hall as well on that night.
Even before that, on March 19, the people of Joydevpur resisted the Pak army from disarming the Benagli army members by putting on barricade on streets. Brig Jahanzeb Arbab of Pak army ordered the army to open fire, which resulted in several deaths. General Moin and Gen Shafiullah are the witnesses to that.
Still Zia’s declaration indeed had a historical significance, and he deserves kudos for it.
March 30, 2007 at 8:41 am
Going back to the original subject of this thread, and the responses given to date on this matter and actually all commentary since the time of this CTG, it should be apparent that none of us on this blog or even inside or outside Bangladesh have a firm idea what will happen and why it is happening. At best we know what has happened and is happening.
Thus opinions as to reasons for these actions are tainted by our own biases.
If we’re BNP aligned, this is US sponsored intervention, but let’s not say too much because the CTG appear to have broad public backing.
If we’re AL, we’re nervy but still are broadly satisfied as the other side are suffering greater casualties. At the same time we don’t understand why mostly things are falling into place as we’ve been calling for.
If we fall in between these two major affiliations, we are probably content for the first time in the past 15 years or so and want more culling of corrupt politicians.
My main point being is that broadly speaking this type of thinking appears to impact upon how we see things, rather than a firm knowledge of what’s in the pipeline. Maybe we should just admit that, as far as the general populous is concerned, we have no idea where this is headed. Maybe impossible to predict. Maybe time to give up on the fortune telling business and stick to calling a spade a spade – where we see good we acknowledge and where we see bad we also speak out against that.
March 30, 2007 at 1:54 pm
Thanks H7bO5 for your timely comments. It is fact that we really don’t know what is going to be happened . From the bottom of my heart
I salute General Moeen to have timely recognitions .On the other hand I am also worried about the statements communication
adviser Abdul Motin.
So basically it is almost impossible to reach in a decision about future events of the country.
March 30, 2007 at 2:04 pm
A Brief Bio of CAS from Bangladesh Army site for everyone’s information: I didn’t know that he is graduate from harvard. The last CAS, presently the Chairman of Anti-Corruption is graduate from at Army War College in USA and finished his masters at public administration at Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania.
Lieutenant General Moeen U Ahmed, psc has been promoted to the present rank and appointed as the Chief of Army Staff on 15 June 2005.
Lieutenant General Moeen U Ahmed, psc, the Chief of Army Staff of Bangladesh Army started his military career from January 1975. His service profile started as Distinguished “Chief of Army Staff’s Cane” holder of the pioneer Short Service Course-1 from Bangladesh Military Academy. Lieutenant General Moeen has the experience of commanding all echelons and levels of command commensurate to his rank from the company commander to General Officer Commanding of Infantry Division.
His service profile is a combination of important command, staff and instructional appointments. He started his instructional career as Weapon Training Officer and then Platoon Commander in Bangladesh Military Academy. He then serve as Brigade Major of an Infantry Brigade.
Besides commanding two infantry battalions as Lieutenant Colonel, he also served as Grade One Staff Officer in Army Headquarters, Military Operations Directorate. As a Colonel, he served as Colonel Staff of an Infantry Division. A veteran Instructor, General Moeen has served in Defence Services Command and Staff College in three terms as Directing Staff in the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, Senior Instructor of Army Wing in the rank of Colonel and Chief Instructor in the rank of Brigadier General.
General Moeen commanded two Infantry Brigades. He was also the Commandant of School of Infantry and Tactics. In Army Headquarters he served as Military Secretary and Master General of Ordnance. He then commanded two Infantry Divisions. He had a tour of duty as Defence Adviser in Bangladesh High Commission in Pakistan. General Moeen in his charismatic career also served in UNAMIR, Rwanda under United Nations. In his distinguished career he has received two commendations. They are “Force Commander’s Commendation” for his excellent contribution as COO in UNAMIR and “US Force’s Commendation” for his outstanding contribution in “OP SEA ANGLES” conducted by US Forces in Bangladesh. The General is a graduate of Defence Services Command and Staff College, Mirpur, Bangladesh as well as of United States Army Command and Staff College, United States of America. He is also a graduate of Harvard University, Boston, USA and Centre for Security Studies of Hawaii, United States of America.
He is a widely traveled person and visited most countries of South Asia, Middle East, Europe and United States of America.
He is married to Begum Naznin Moeen and they have a son and a daughter.
March 31, 2007 at 8:31 pm
To None,
Many of us have dilemma about what army will do under General Moeen? Many speculate that present situation is the old brand item in new packet, and the real hub will come soon.
Many speculates, army backed govt are preparing to serve the purpose of west.
Many speculate, yet there are differences within army including within the advisers and between these two.
Many believe power sharing matrix is not working as it should function.
Many opine why there is no disclosure or action against corrupt military persons.
There is no conspiracy about the above stated speculations, for sure.
The equations are very simple, every individual either in govt (advisers) or in army (as these two are widely discussed) are jointly working based on a set agenda having no confusion within them aspired by the best of their patriotism.
A good number of army personals are already taken care off for their unusual deeds which naturally can not be made public.
We should discuss about the govt and army in thread bear, if there are substances of confusion and unusual activities.
ALO
April 5, 2007 at 12:25 am
Hi Everybody,
I was shocked at the editorial of today’s (05 April 2007) The Daily Star (http://www.thedailystar.net/2007/04/05/d70405020128.htm)
Please have a look and see how blatantly the Daily has criticised the Chief of Army Staff’s key note address at the International Political Science Association. My views on the editorial is like this:
One must understand that right at this moment the Chief of Army Staff is a change agent in the political landscape of Bangladesh. It will be too naïve to say that “he may have gone far beyond the purview of a serving CAS to air his views on the entire gamut of political issues” (The Daily Star Editorial, 05 April 2007). There is no denying the fact that he is not involved in politics, rather his statements are visionary, and as a student of Government and Politics, I like to emphasise that his statements are visionary for all political leaders and bureaucrats in Bangladesh.
General Moeen was addressing the International Political Science Association, and apart from his military status, one cannot but admire the concepts he left to the audience with precision and strong words. As a visionary leader, it is enough that the General gave out the concepts. He indeed conceptualised what the Princeton PhD graduate Dr. Fakhruddin has aimed immediately after taking over the office. I believe I will not be wrong to say that his concepts need further circulation among the people of Bangladesh, and political scientists are there to elaborate on his themes. It is also not necessary for a Chief of Army Staff to elaborate on what he said.
We have seen that our politics is not pro-poor. And as such democracy as defined in lexicon is not exactly what Bangladesh needs at this moment. Therefore without recovering the bureaucratic machinery it is futile to hasten up the re-instatement of a politics with merely democratic tints – such an effort will take us back to where the Caretaker Government began from. As such, the apprehension that his statement may not bring stability to our situation is inconsistent with the present context.
By all means the connotation that the Daily Star made to ‘the guided democracy’ referring to his speech seems redundant, and a passing remark. If democracy is not flawed, as was indicated in the relevant editorial, then its bearers must be; and this is what the General’s speech brings forth. Obviously no individual or group can make a decision alone. But the Daily Star needs to realise that the Chief of Army Staff is not an individual, rather he is an institution, and he does not represent a group per se, rather a vast community in which is vested the responsibility of law and order, particularly when the civil government fails, besides his individual feat for which he had been addressing the elite audience.
Where will you reinstate the democracy from, if it has met a sad demise or if it did not exist in the first place?