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Sunday, May 20, 2012

[ALOCHONA] Dr. Yunus - Not the Founder of Grameen Bank



 

Dr. Yunus - Not the Founder of Grameen Bank
 
-Rahaat Khan
 
 
Dr. Yunus's case related to Grameen Bank is now pending with the Supreme Court. The hearing is adjourned for two weeks from 15th March, 2011 . Naturally, any opinion on this sub-judiced matter is prohibited in the eye of law. Hence, I will only put forward some of my personal observation on Dr. Muhammad Yunus and his activities.
 
A man of high esteem, Dr. Yunus has definitely glorified our nation for his Nobel Peace award. And we, being Bangladeshis feel proud of him. But there is a slight misnomer with his reputation. Dr. Yunus is frequently recognized as the founder of Grameen Bank. But the fact does not entirely go with this. The Government of Bangladesh has constituted this specialized bank in 1990 in purview with the existing rules of the land and under the provisions and supervision of Bangladesh Bank. As such, Dr. Yunus may, by large, be considered as the founder managing director of the said bank, not the founder. Any way, he is all in all in the Grameen Bank and his hilarious effort in marketing this bank is enormous. Like many other, it also strikes me that why Dr. Yunus was not interested to have a successor although there was a heresy that for sometime, Khaled Shams, a renowned banker was deemed to the next role leader. But in one fine morning Mr. Shams was removed from this bank and also it was not clear whether he was engaged in any of Grameen's projects. Anyway, the next name we came across was some Dipal Borua but that too been a faded name for a long while. No doubt, Dr. Yunus's contribution to the Grameen Bank is fathomless. But it is also an undeniable fact that an institution requires a generation of successive leadership for its sustenance. But we did not spot Mr. Yunus being attentive to this at all. Why? This may be better known to him but my understanding along with many others slates this not as a failure on Dr. Yunus's part to realize it rather the very wish of life long governance over the institution of even the intention of doing whatever he feels like with this specialized bank.
 
This is a common place that everyone retires after a certain period of service. But the very effort of Dr. Yunus testifies that he wants a life time managing directorship for Grameen Bank. Seemingly, his departure from this grand comradeship will husk a griddling fate to 80 lakh poor people. Mr. Yunus is now 71. Does every death spare any Nobel laureate? If so be the fact, and also the fact remains Dr. Yunus's absence from Grameen Bank, shatters the fate of 80 lack poor people, naturally people should witness his immortality for the sake of Grameen Bank and the poor. But is that possible?
 
Defying all these Dr. Yunus requires to be on top of the Grameen Bank. It isn't only because of the dignity of this Nobel laureate, but to the best of my knowledge, rather because of many inter and intra continental trade conglomeration. Okay, there is no harm in such strategic partnership. But many indicates on the unfair pledge especially where any specialized financial institution like Grameen Bank enjoys the provision of non-compliance collateral or equity principles and tax rebate. As such it earned an unequival competitive advantage to override other similar businesses in the market for which it was not meant, rather, the special arrangements on part of the regulators came out of the belief that micro financing and micro credit would be an epitome to relieve poverty. But what our experience narrates is nothing but the tale of an ugly game. When it is expected that Dr. Yunus being a Nobel laureate would do justice to his own dignity more specifically when the awards goes for peace making. But it didn't go along that line. Mr Yunus didn't off shoulder his responsibility until he was officially removed by the Bangladesh Bank. Some Western allies including the Friends of Grameen started lobbying and seemed to be very much resolutative for holding his position as MD of the Grameen Bank. Disaster without Yunus!
 
Now, the question is, whose disaster the allies think it to be? Anyway, I restrain myself from commenting on that. Just to raise a little point on the validity of the policy statements of an institution which claims to have a pivotal role in poverty alleviation where the interest rate is 35 to 40 per cent and more interestingly these loan arrangements are triggered towards to the people living below the poverty line. Doesn't it sound like an impractical imagination? As if a fool dwelling in a paradise! Against this backdrop of Grameen Bank, there are many NGOs in Bangladesh (e.g. BRAC, PROSHIKA, Nijera Kori, KARITAS etc.) which have a long legacy of success story on issues like poverty alleviation, reducing child mortality and pregnant women, population control, women empowerment, development of sanitation in rural and slum areas etc. Does the Grameen Bank record any visible contribution to the above-mentioned programmes or areas with its high-rated interest provision? Then, it is not an exaggeration or over-statement that the Grameen Bank effort was more focused on financial transaction based on a mercenary-like attitude and style than effective poverty alleviation.
 
Despite all these, Dr. Yunus was awarded Nobel peace price for his `contribution' to poverty alleviation and helping reducing the threat of anarchy due to extreme poverty in society thus bringing smiles to millions of faces in rural Bangladesh . This Nobel price in fact struck many conscious minds. A man who has never uttered a single word protesting against the 1971 genocide by Pakistan, rather stayed in USA to remain in safe zone; who has always kept aloof during natural and political calamities in Bangladesh (only except the post one-eleven incident). Rather, it is him, the man who has little visible contribution to poverty alleviation rather but for conceptualizing micro credit to the poor with an enormous interest rate and thus became a mercenary Dr. Yunus who has been awarded the Nobel Peace price for peace? What else could this be called than just doing a mimic to peace by the Nobel granting committee? I have always praised Mr. Yunus as a successful entrepreneur; however, I still have some reservations and queries regarding him:
 
A Bangladeshi by birth, why Dr. Yunus never has visited our national mausoleum in Savar, or shrine of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman? Nor have we ever seen him saying anything regarding Bangabandhu. His snobbish attitude and disregard to Bangabandhu and all glorious achievements of Bangalee nation hurt me the most. Should such a personality deserve respect? Moreover, the man who intended to brand all politicians as corrupt during the post one-eleven scenario; and who consented to take responsibility of ruling the country but with an assurance for 10-year stay in power has been much downgraded from his dignity and esteem. Time will say what will be the legal fate of Dr. Yunus. But Mr. Yunus, you have lost much of the glare of a Nobel laureate by now. This is really a misfortune for the whole nation.
  
 
   




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[ALOCHONA] Grameen Bank and Dr. Md. Yunus




 
Zahir Uddin Ahmed
 
[The Financial Express on 30-03-2011 ]

            It is very unfortunate for all of us in Bangladesh that the way the episode involving Grameen Bank (GB) and Dr. Yunus has been blown up in the press. Certainly, the matter could have been sorted out or solved in a more discreet, polite and sophisticated way.

            The concept of collateral-less micro credit was first conceived and introduced in this sub-continent by the Murwaries, who used to charge very high lending rate and very crude and cruel methods of loan recovery. The then government was obliged to enact suitable laws to protect the poor borrowers. No doubt Dr. Yunus has elevated the collateral-less micro credit to poor people to new heights and dimensions. The contribution of Dr. Md. Yunus in expanding the role of micro-credit to poor people to ameliorate their economic conditions can not be denied.

            But the continuation of Dr. Md. Yunus in the post of Managing Director (MD) for about eleven years (2000 - 2010) without the approval of Bangladesh Bank is not acceptable. Under Section (U/S) 14 of the Grameen Bank Ordinance 1983, the Managing Director of Grameen Bank is appointed by the Board with prior approval of the Bangladesh Bank, who shall be a whole time officer and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Bank.

            As has been reported in the press, at the time of re-appointment of Dr. Yunus in 2000 (after he attained 60 years of age), the approval of Bangladesh Bank was not taken. This was highly irregular and may be illegal too. It is highly unacceptable that a man of international repute like Dr. Yunus would continue to act as Managing Director of Grameen Bank in flagrant violation of section 14 of the Ordinance 1983 under which the Bank was established. This may be due to his paternal passion for the organization. I wonder what role the three government-nominated directors (one of whom is the chairman) played during the long period (more than 10 years) of its irregular activities. All these happened before the nose of Bangladesh Bank in a very compromising and permissive atmosphere.

            I also wonder, what the American lobbyists, who are moving heaven and earth, to allow Dr. Md. Yunus to act as the Managing Director of Grameen Bank, would say if in the USA , a director of a corporate body continued in his post in clear violation of the legal framework under which the particular corporate body was constituted?

            According to the Grameen Bank Ordinance 1983, the Bank was established with an initial paid up capital of Tk. 7,20,00,000.00, 25% of which was subscribed by Government of Bangladesh and 75% by borrowers shareholders.

            The Board (U/S 9) of Grameen Bank consists of three persons appointed by the government of Bangladesh (GOB), nine persons elected by the borrowers shareholders and the Managing Director, an ex-officio Director without any voting power.

            In the socio-political background of Bangladesh , it is highly unlikely that the 8.0 million (80 lakh) borrowers/shareholders elected nine (9) Directors of the Board out of their free will, without any coercion or undue influence from the management. It appears to me that the seed of one-man rule (domination) was embedded U/S 9 of the Grameen Bank Ordinance, 1983. To say the least, although theoretically a novel idea, it was an utopian idea that the mostly illiterate borrower/shareholders, who are always at the mercy of the Bank Management, would be able to exercise their right of vote freely. Further the nine directors elected by the borrowers/shareholders, given their socio-economic background, it is very doubtful whether they would be able to discharge their duties in directing and supervising the operations of Grameen Bank.
 
            The main objective of Grameen Bank, inter alia, is to assist the landless poor persons for all types of economic activities including purchasing shares of any corporate body object of which is to provide services to landless persons, carrying out survey and research relating to the improvement of economic condition of the landless persons.

            Against the above background, my comments would be:

            1. The lending rate charged by Grameen Bank should not be more than the cost of borrowed fund. It should be at break-even point i.e. no profit - no loss. This is a specialized financial institution for the benefit of the landless poor people.

            2. There is no scope for giving loan to privately owned business enterprises or acquiring the shares of any corporate body whose object is not providing services to landless persons. If this has taken place, the persons responsible should be brought to book.

            3. The provision of forced saving if any, calls for proper investigation and follow-up.

            4. The alleged cruel debt recovery process needs to be thoroughly investigated and if needed, legal protection to be given to the poor landless people.

            5. In the western world, we see that even the members of royal family and cabinet members are taken to task by ordinary traffic police for violation of rules. No body should be above the law.

            I would conclude by saying that Dr. Yunus is a very successful entrepreneur. Begum Matia Chowdhury, Minister for Agriculture has recently rightly commented, in the Jatiyo Sangsad that "Dr. Md. Yunus is a good salesman, sells his goods efficiently". Dr. Md. Yunus has spoken about corporate social responsibility (CSR) and transparency at home and abroad. I for one, naturally expected that Dr. Yunus would practice what he preaches. But I was greatly disappointed to read the book published by Grameen Bank Prokolpa (1982) entitled, "Beltoil Grameer Zarimon and Other" which contains a number of case study of Grameen Bank loans granted to individual poor people. The case study has not shown the rate and amount of interest charged, the rate and amount of compulsory saving, the rate and amount of emergency/disaster fund or other subscription/ membership fees, if any. I do not mind if the micro credit granting bodies charge even 100% interest so long they are transparent in their dealings and activities.

________________________________________________________________________
Mr Zahir Uddin Ahmed FCA, FCMA is President of Institute of Cost & Management Accountants of Bangladesh (ICMAB) and a former President of Institute of Chartered Accountants of Bangladesh (ICAB ) and South Asian Federation of Accountants (SAFA). He can be reached at the following e-mail: icmab@accesstel.net
 




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[ALOCHONA] Dr. Muhammad Yunus Ebong Onanno Proshongo



            Extracts (translated) from Rahat Khans post-editorial published in daily Shamokaal on 9th March, 2011 titled: "Biswo Cup Cricket, Dr. Muhammad Yunus Ebong Onanno Proshongo"
 
Dr. Muhammad Yunus is a highly talented person, a pride for the nation. We all respect him so very much. In 2006 he has been awarded the Nobel Peace Price for his contribution to poverty alleviation through successful networking of micro-financing, which puts positive impact on women empowerment and poverty alleviation. Naturally, Dr. Yunus becomes a phenomenal persona, not only among us, but more emphatically, to many influential leaders and institutions around the globe. Hillary Clinton or Barak Obama, Queen Sophia of Spain or even the German Chancellor Angela Merkel are within his clutch-knock, if he intends to meet them. Dr. Yunus has now come up with a glaring idea of social business or enterprising after many years of doing high rated interest business. His mercenary talent seems almost unparallel, especially within the context of globalized world despite his initiatives being judged whether properly clicked to peace keeping process. Anyway, Dr. Yunus is regarded as an esteemed person and moreover, deemed to be an essential figure especially in the global community.
 
Grameen Bank is a specialized bank under the financial provisions charted out by the Bangladesh Bank. Dr. Yunus is both the pathfinder and founder of this bank. He has made this bank a tremendously profit harnessing financial institution and the scale of interest rate and profit is so high that it was of no shock or pressure to the bank at all in case of transferring its liquidity amounting 10 thousand crore Taka a few years back. In fact, no question of adjustment or disarray rose so far as Grameen Bank and its other subsidiary or sister concerns have a tumultuous financial capacity that hundreds of thousands Taka seems to be a petty cash against its real volume.
 
Here I have a humble submission. If the other banks or financial institutions operating in Bangladesh be enlarged with the same facilities and financial provisions allowed to the Grameen Bank (neat interest rate 40%, no collateral provision, tax waiver in many of its business entities etc.), I recon, they could flourish at the same pace with Grameen Bank.  But they were not given any such privileges, as given to Grameen Bank. Why? Is it because, as they are not involved in the crossroad to delineating poverty of the marginalized people and help them live a better human life under the adroit guidance of Dr. Yunus.
 
In papers, things are alright. But those who live in Bangladesh and take notes on NGO activities, for them, it is hard to anticipate that this micro-credit has great impetus to poverty alleviation.  We are not saying that micro financing has limited role to play in the said domain but what we intend to mean is that the degree of poverty is not down-scaled to the expected level where it evolves the Grameen Bank like institutions with its lending provision covered by a very high interest rates. If we look at the aftermath scenario, it is documented that due to a rigorous recovery drive which ranges from filing law-suit down to snatching away essential household utensils like milking cows, goats, roof-top tins, jewelries, even nose pin (which carry high emotional value to rural women). The atrocity is not finished yet. Even reports are there, some borrowers had to commit suicide to escape Grameen Bank official's cruel hunt for loan recovery. This is all possible as because Grameen Bank is a specialized bank. Now the question remains, is it really possible to narrow poverty margin by doing this, and also where the loan policy carries a high interest rate. Wasn't it rather expected that as with a concept of pro-people banking institution, the operations of Grameen Bank would be more focused to lending micro credit with lower interest, if they really mean to alleviate poverty, help poor women in the real sense and help society to get more stable?
 
Now, a question to the Government of Bangladesh. Why they are not banning the cruel loan policy where interest rate is so high as 30 to 40 percent? In that case, if a specialized bank can not survive without such high rated interest, then isn't it better without them? It is also pertinent to think, is it at all necessary in a country like Bangladesh to nourish such profit mongering and deceiving banking practice which eventually brings disharmony the society rather establishing peace?
 
It is true that by winning Nobel Peace Price, Dr. Yunus has earned profound respect of all Bangladeshis as well as Bengali speaking people around the globe. He is indeed a pride for the nation. My personal concern is also aligned with the ongoing debate regarding Dr. Yunus on which various media in Bangladesh , particularly a leading Bangla and English daily are raising again and again. It is true that by degrading a Nobel laureate, we are simply downgrading ourselves. Nevertheless, one question still triggers our mind why the international statistics doesn't support that Grameen Bank has been a success story in alleviating poverty? Questions may further be asked, why this Nobel laureate for peace kept mum when there were severe attacks on peace, including that of Udichi's Conference, Communist Party's assembly, Ramna Botomul attak on Cchayanot's Cultural programme to celebrate Bengali new year, 21st August grenade attack on the then opposition party and killing of hundreds of workers including leader Ivy Rahman, brutal assassination of Dr. SAMS Kibria, Ahsanullah Master and many others that took place during BNP's And AL's previous regimes? May one also humbly ask why the Nobel Laureate had supported the minus-1 theory during the army backed caretaker regime after one-eleven? What real steps he has taken to establish peace in this country? Every ordinary citizen of Bangladesh has a legitimate right to know this. Besides, the Government should also ensure that this 71-year world-famous personality has a safe exit from Grameen Bank with honour and dignity. This is what I wish wholeheartedly.
 




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[ALOCHONA] Court Order???



             Since the order passed by the Hon'ble High Court of Bangladesh Supreme Court of Bangladesh, Dr. Yunus has been attending office which is a clear violation of the Court order.  The Court has ordered that he has ceased to be in the position of Managing Director (MD) of Grameen Bank. Nevertheless, Dr. Yunus has been passing office orders, transferring people, shifting funds and taking action as MD which are all illegal now.  Furthermore, he filed an appeal with the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court which has also been turned down. In spite of that he is still holding the office. How would other democratic governments take it whereas there is a clear violation of Court's order which amounts to contempt of court? What could the Government do now? The Government has not taken any action so far.

 

Upon request from Professor Yunus, the Finance Minister constituted a committee to look into the affairs of the Grameen Bank, which will soon be publishing reports. It may be recalled that Dr. Yunus himself invited an inquiry into the activates of Grameen Bank, immediately after the Norwegian media coverage. Later on, again on his request, the Finance Minister appointed a review committee composed of eminent persons all outside the Government to conduct the review. The Committee is acting independently and no one in the Government has any communication with them. After submission of the report, the Government will consider the recommendations. 

 

 

 


 




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Re: [mukto-mona] Re: [ALOCHONA] Former Saudi Diplomat's Letter to PM S heikh Hasina on War Crimes Trial Issues



The quality (education) of Bangladeshi laborers is inferior to other South Asian countries and that is why we have no bargaining power. When people figure out it is not worth going there for peanuts,  the flow will stop. Now, if Saudis need Bangladeshis, they will take more. A country should have  some dignity. Otherwise, it will never get the due respect. Both Hasina and Khaleda should stand up for that principle!
-SD
 
"All great truths begin as blasphemies." GBS

From: Mohiuddin Anwar <mohiuddin1626@live.com>
To: mukto-mona@yahoogroups.com; jnsr53@yahoo.com; shahdeeldar@yahoo.com
Sent: Sunday, May 20, 2012 4:47 PM
Subject: RE: [mukto-mona] Re: [ALOCHONA] Former Saudi Diplomat's Letter to PM S heikh Hasina on War Crimes Trial Issues

 
Bangladeshi workers in Saudi Arabia accepting lowest salaries than other nations specially South Asians. They find  no other way to survive
in Bangladesh other than to go to Middle East for job. Basically those laborers became 'miskim' there and has to accept  sponsor's  terms.
Now that other competitors like Srilanka, India,Pakistan  the Phillippines, Nepal are competing for Saudi job market we have no way other
than to accept any condition to survive. After the killing of Saudi Diplomat in Bangladesh situation  becoming worst for
Bangladesh wage earners. Relation with current secular Hasina government with the Saudis isn't as cordial as it was before. We have to consider all
option to secure our job market in the Middle East specially Saudi Arabia the largest job market for Bangladeshi  wage earners.
 

To: mukto-mona@yahoogroups.com
From: jnrsr53@yahoo.com
Date: Sun, 20 May 2012 13:35:58 -0700
Subject: Re: [mukto-mona] Re: [ALOCHONA] Former Saudi Diplomat's Letter to PM S heikh Hasina on War Crimes Trial Issues

 
It makes us "Slaves."
 
Jiten Roy


--- On Sun, 5/20/12, Shah Deeldar <shahdeeldar@yahoo.com> wrote:

From: Shah Deeldar <shahdeeldar@yahoo.com>
Subject: Re: [mukto-mona] Re: [ALOCHONA] Former Saudi Diplomat's Letter to PM S heikh Hasina on War Crimes Trial Issues
To: "Mohiuddin Anwar" <mohiuddin@netzero.net>, "abdulmukto-mona@yahoogroups.com" <abdulmukto-mona@yahoogroups.com>, "dahuk@yahoogroups.com" <dahuk@yahoogroups.com>, "chottala@yahoogroups.com" <chottala@yahoogroups.com>, "dr.dipumoni@gmail.com" <dr.dipumoni@gmail.com>, "drmohsinali@yahoo.com" <drmohsinali@yahoo.com>, "abdulbayes@yahoo.com" <abdulbayes@yahoo.com>, "abdul_momen@hotmail.com" <abdul_momen@hotmail.com>
Cc: "alochona@yahoogroups.com" <alochona@yahoogroups.com>, "mukto-mona@yahoogroups.com" <mukto-mona@yahoogroups.com>
Date: Sunday, May 20, 2012, 3:18 PM

 
What does that make us then? They can criticize us but can't stand up? They can demand criminals to go free but we can't refuse?
It sounds great to me!
-SD
 
"All great truths begin as blasphemies." GBS

From: Mohiuddin Anwar <mohiuddin@netzero.net>
To: abdulmukto-mona@yahoogroups.com; shahdeeldar@yahoo.com; dahuk@yahoogroups.com; chottala@yahoogroups.com; dr.dipumoni@gmail.com; drmohsinali@yahoo.com; abdulbayes@yahoo.com; abdul_momen@hotmail.com
Cc: alochona@yahoogroups.com; mukto-mona@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Sunday, May 20, 2012 2:31 PM
Subject: Re: [mukto-mona] Re: [ALOCHONA] Former Saudi Diplomat's Letter to PM S heikh Hasina on War Crimes Trial Issues

Mr. Shah Deelder,
 
Donot forget that over two million Bangladeshis live  and work in Saudi Arabia (largest in any forien nation)and remitt valuable foreign currencies to energoze our economy. If the relation becomes worse we have to suffer
severly. Saudis already stopped renewing Bangladeshis Aqama(work visa) silently and stopped recruiting Bangladeshi manpower and other nations supplying their manpower
without any difficulity. Our government should be careful about the effect of this Saudi measure.
 

---------- Original Message ----------
From: Shah Deeldar <shahdeeldar@yahoo.com>
To: "alochona@yahoogroups.com" <alochona@yahoogroups.com>
Cc: "mukto-mona@yahoogroups.com" <mukto-mona@yahoogroups.com>
Subject: [mukto-mona] Re: [ALOCHONA] Former Saudi Diplomat's Letter to PM Sheikh Hasina on War Crimes Trial Issues
Date: Sun, 20 May 2012 09:29:44 -0700 (PDT)

 
Saudis should mind their own business! To these idiots, Muslims commit no crime and hence they should not punished unless it is against the Saudi royal family?
-SD
 
"All great truths begin as blasphemies." GBS

From: Nirob Dorshok <nistabdhota@yahoo.com.au>
To: Alochona <alochona@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Friday, May 18, 2012 6:27 AM
Subject: [ALOCHONA] Former Saudi Diplomat's Letter to PM Sheikh Hasina on War Crimes Trial Issues

 
16 May, 2012
 
Letter to Sheikh Hasina

BY DR. ALI ALGHAMDY 

Your Excellency, let me introduce myself to you as a Saudi diplomat who visited Bangladesh before it became independent. I was dispatched in the 1960s by the Saudi government to Chittagong to issue Bangladeshi pilgrims Haj visas. In the 1980s I returned to Bangladesh as a plenipotentiary at the Saudi Embassy in Dhaka.

After retirement, a group of people who love Bangladesh decided to form the Saudi-Bangladeshi Friendship Association in Jeddah. Our objective was to strengthen bilateral relations and help the Bangladesh workforce in the Kingdom. I was honored to be appointed the secretary general of the association. As founders, we did not have any material interests – we just wanted to enhance the relations between the Kingdom and the world's third largest Muslim country.

I was honored to meet your father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in Karachi, specifically at the Round-Table Conference which was held at the behest of President Ayub Khan. The reception was held by G. M. Sayed, Pakistani politician, and I was one of the invitees. I met your father there and was impressed by his charisma and eloquence.

I was honored also to meet you when I was assigned to the Saudi Embassy in Dhaka. During the rule of General Hussein Muhammad Ershad, I followed your activities.

I still vividly remember the day when opposition leaders were arrested and when policemen approached you to arrest you. You said: "Do not touch me, I'm a Muslim woman." This incident depicted the fact that you are a God-fearing Muslim woman. Besides, you were always keen to perform Umrah whenever you had a chance.

For all these reasons, I would like you to read the following points with mercy and justice.
1.  You know very well the difficult circumstances your father faced following his release from prison and return to Dhaka where he took over as Prime Minister and worked hard to solve the problems from which the country was suffering. He issued several laws including the war crimes law by which 195 Pakistani military officers were convicted. The law did not include any Bangladeshi civilian or politician. Besides, the 195 officers were later pardoned, thus your father won the praise and admiration of the entire Muslim world. At the time, he made his famous statement: "I want the world to know that Bangladeshis can forgive and forget."

 2.   At the time of your father's tenure, the government passed a law incriminating those who collaborated with the Pakistani army. Although over 100,000 individuals were arrested, none of them were politicians. Your father decided to pardon and release them. Throughout his tenure, he never leveled charges against any politician. When you became the Prime Minister following the 1996 elections, you did the same. You did not accuse nor did you arrest anyone for war crimes or collaboration with the Pakistani military. You did not do that because your father was decisive about this matter and he pardoned all the individuals involved.

3.      Everyone was surprised when the wise decisions taken by your father were annulled and the issue of war crimes surfaced again. Some consider the revocation of these decisions as disrespect to your father, which is an unacceptable matter. Among those who opposed such revocation was the opposition party and your former government.

4.      Nothing can justify the unjust decision to arrest Muslim leaders who were not arrested during your father's tenure and yours as well. This decision does not bring any good to the country; on the contrary, it divides people and stirs up trouble, a matter which has direct detrimental consequences to you as the leader of the world's third largest Muslim country. As someone who loves Bangladesh and its people, I would like to say that many Muslim leaders all over the Muslim world are upset about the arrest of Muslim groups and leaders such as Professor Ghulam Azam who was accused of charges that no one would believe. He was charged with things that were done 40 years ago. He was not charged with them at the time.

5.      I hope that you will reconsider the decision of arresting those Muslim groups and leaders without justification for such arrests. For the sake of your father who did not arrest anyone on similar charges at the time, please order the release of those arrested as such a decision will win you people's appreciation and will be a way of showing your deep love for your late father.

— Dr. Ali Alghamdy is a former Saudi diplomat who specializes in Southeast Asian affairs. He can be reached at algham@hotmail.com
 


 


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Re: [mukto-mona] Re: [ALOCHONA] Badruddin Umar on court ruling on Huma yun's novel



Maybe, you are right. But, I would say the circumstances are different with no cold war friend to rely for money and support. If Saudis do it, there will be a heavy price to pay for that adventure. This time, it will be a civil war and the villains will have to escape through the sea route. Bangladesh is not Pakistan. These villains will have no place to go. With no international support, the hammer will fall fast and furiously on their heads. And, they know it.
-SD 
 
"All great truths begin as blasphemies." GBS

From: Mohiuddin Anwar <mohiuddin@netzero.net>
To: shahdeeldar@yahoo.com
Cc: syed.aslam3@gmail.com; aanis06@yahoo.com; ovimot@yahoogroups.com; alapon@yahoogroups.com; abid.bahar@gmail.com; chottala@yahoogroups.com; jnsr53@yahoo.com; mukto-mona@yahoogroups.com; alochona@yahoogroups.com; srbanunz@gmail.com; captchowdhury@yahoo.ca; dahuk@yahoogroups.com; unitycouncilusa@gmail.com; guhasb@gmail.com; manik195709@yahoo.com; sefat.ullah@gmail.com
Sent: Sunday, May 20, 2012 1:02 PM
Subject: Re: [mukto-mona] Re: [ALOCHONA] Badruddin Umar on court ruling on Huma yun's novel

The same mistake currently doing by Mujib Konnya  Hasina now. She was encircled by 'Chatukers' and 'Dumurer Phools;. If anything happens to Mujib Konnya, those new Baksalis and admirers  will abandon  her and only she will pay the price, that's the reality.
She is trusting the untrustables.
My question is that if Mujib killers  can  be punished now than why not punishing General Shafiullah and  other  co-cowards who violated constitution and co-operated with the mutimnous soldiers ?

---------- Original Message ----------
From: Shah Deeldar <shahdeeldar@yahoo.com>
To: Mohiuddin Anwar <mohiuddin@netzero.net>,  "syed.aslam3@gmail.com" <syed.aslam3@gmail.com>,  "aanis06@yahoo.com" <aanis06@yahoo.com>,  "ovimot@yahoogroups.com" <ovimot@yahoogroups.com>,  "alapon@yahoogroups.com" <alapon@yahoogroups.com>,  "abid.bahar@gmail.com" <abid.bahar@gmail.com>,  "chottala@yahoogroups.com" <chottala@yahoogroups.com>,  "jnsr53@yahoo.com" <jnsr53@yahoo.com>
Cc: "mukto-mona@yahoogroups.com" <mukto-mona@yahoogroups.com>,  "alochona@yahoogroups.com" <alochona@yahoogroups.com>,  "srbanunz@gmail.com" <srbanunz@gmail.com>,  "captchowdhury@yahoo.ca" <captchowdhury@yahoo.ca>,  "dahuk@yahoogroups.com" <dahuk@yahoogroups.com>,  "unitycouncilusa@gmail.com" <unitycouncilusa@gmail.com>,  "guhasb@gmail.com" <guhasb@gmail.com>,  "manik195709@yahoo.com" <manik195709@yahoo.com>,  "sefat.ullah@gmail.com" <sefat.ullah@gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [mukto-mona] Re: [ALOCHONA] Badruddin Umar on court ruling on Huma   yun's novel
Date: Sun, 20 May 2012 09:50:44 -0700 (PDT)

Considering the way whole family was killed, it is nothing but a cowardice act. The second adjective is of course the criminality.
However, I do agree with you about the cowardice that was shown by Rokkhi-Bhanis and others in response to the killing. It was probably all preplanned to make sure that no trouble should be coming from Rokkhis? I bet everybody was adequately paid for their impotency?
Mujib should have taken a page Fidel Castro to make sure he took those SOBs before they took him. He was not seriously paranoid about the situation. And, the man paid dearly for his negligence when the cold war game is its peak and both CIA and ISI were in cahoots.
-SD
 
"All great truths begin as blasphemies." GBS

From: Mohiuddin Anwar <mohiuddin@netzero.net>
To: shahdeeldar@yahoo.com; syed.aslam3@gmail.com; aanis06@yahoo.com; ovimot@yahoogroups.com; alapon@yahoogroups.com; abid.bahar@gmail.com; chottala@yahoogroups.com; jnsr53@yahoo.com
Cc: mukto-mona@yahoogroups.com; alochona@yahoogroups.com; srbanunz@gmail.com; captchowdhury@yahoo.ca; dahuk@yahoogroups.com; unitycouncilusa@gmail.com; guhasb@gmail.com; manik195709@yahoo.com; sefat.ullah@gmail.com
Sent: Sunday, May 20, 2012 12:25 PM
Subject: Re: [mukto-mona] Re: [ALOCHONA] Badruddin Umar on court ruling on Huma yun's novel

Still I can say 'criminals' can kill people not the 'cowards' as you mentioned. Cowards and criminals are two different words. You mentioned that ,they are cowards.but  I disagree. I say the Mujib supporter's were 'cowards' who did not take any action  against the killing of their 'father of the nation' with entire family. The 12,0000  strong Rokkhibahini soldiers were cowards who didnot fire a single bullet to prevent the overthrowing of Mujib government.FYI  Only few tanks without any ammunistion were able to surround the Rokkhibahini barack and the 12,000 notorious Rokkhi soldiers surrendered without firing a single bullet.The senior most  'coward' was Gen Shafiullah the than Army Chief of Sheikh Mujib who's duty was to protect the Head of the Government , not the mutinous soldiers. who currently serving under Mujib Konnya Hasina with her complete satisfaction. Basically, M<ujib konnya  Hasina is encircled by lot of 'cowards' now a days ,who did nothing when it was needed. The only 'hero' who did take action against Mujib killing is Bongobor Bagha Siddiky who was 'abandoned' by so called Jononetri now.
Know the real story before criticizing others comment.History will never forgive any repressor ruler, they will take action.
Thanks


---------- Original Message ----------
From: Shah Deeldar <shahdeeldar@yahoo.com>
To: Mohiuddin Anwar <mohiuddin@netzero.net>,  "mukto-mona@yahoogroups.com" <mukto-mona@yahoogroups.com>
Cc: "alochona@yahoogroups.com" <alochona@yahoogroups.com>
Subject: Re: [mukto-mona] Re: [ALOCHONA] Badruddin Umar on court ruling on Huma  yun's novel
Date: Sun, 20 May 2012 06:41:55 -0700 (PDT)

Yes, cowards and criminals kill people because they are ill equipped to do anything else. Without guns, these animals are just the rats of gutter!
-SD
 
"All great truths begin as blasphemies." GBS

From: Mohiuddin Anwar <mohiuddin@netzero.net>
To: mukto-mona@yahoogroups.com; shahdeeldar@yahoo.com
Cc: mukto-mona@yahoogroups.com; alochona@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Sunday, May 20, 2012 1:05 AM
Subject: Re: [mukto-mona] Re: [ALOCHONA] Badruddin Umar on court ruling on Huma yun's novel

Mr. Shah Dilder,
 
Can cowards kill a man . But we heard that Sheiukh's  last conversation with the killers was" Tora Ki Chash"(What do you want ?), Is that true ?
He had commanding voice during that  critical moment of his life. He had no time for further conversation with his killers.

---------- Original Message ----------
From: Shah Deeldar <shahdeeldar@yahoo.com>
To: Mohiuddin Anwar <mohiuddin@netzero.net>,  "mukto-mona@yahoogroups.com" <mukto-mona@yahoogroups.com>
Cc: Alochona Group <alochona@yahoogroups.com>
Subject: Re: [mukto-mona] Re: [ALOCHONA] Badruddin Umar on court ruling on Huma yun's novel
Date: Sat, 19 May 2012 05:44:38 -0700 (PDT)

 
What makes you think a killer(s) would tell you the truth? A small kid like Russel may have asked for mercy but Mujib would not ask for mercy from these deshi cowards.
 
"All great truths begin as blasphemies." GBS

From: Mohiuddin Anwar <mohiuddin@netzero.net>
To: mukto-mona@yahoogroups.com; shahdeeldar@yahoo.com
Sent: Saturday, May 19, 2012 12:23 AM
Subject: Re: [mukto-mona] Re: [ALOCHONA] Badruddin Umar on court ruling on Huma yun's novel

Only the killer Army officers knew the fact whether Sheikh Mujib begged for his life or had any momnet available for that, no other person has any knowledge about it.
Some of the killer officers still alive to tell the truth to the nation.


---------- Original Message ----------
From: Shah Deeldar <shahdeeldar@yahoo.com>
To: "alochona@yahoogroups.com" <alochona@yahoogroups.com>
Cc: "mukto-mona@yahoogroups.com" <mukto-mona@yahoogroups.com>
Subject: [mukto-mona] Re: [ALOCHONA] Badruddin Umar on court ruling on Humayun's novel
Date: Thu, 17 May 2012 05:50:56 -0700 (PDT)

 
A historical fact should be written right and objectively before that fiction becomes a reference point for future history. Humayaun was not there at the killing spot and he did not witness that Mujib was begging for his life. That part of the story is pure fabrication and it should be omitted or corrected. The writer should have known better when he deals with historical topics.
-SD
 
"All great truths begin as blasphemies." GBS

From: Isha Khan <bdmailer@gmail.com>
To:
Sent: Thursday, May 17, 2012 1:23 AM
Subject: [ALOCHONA] Badruddin Umar on court ruling on Humayun's novel

 
Badruddin Umar on court ruling on Humayun's novel

   

http://amardeshonline.com/pages/details/2012/05/17/145374


 
 


____________________________________________________________
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____________________________________________________________
53 Year Old Mom Looks 33
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Re: [mukto-mona] Re: [ALOCHONA] Re: WHY ZIA WAS ASSIGNED ????



I do not think we need to reinvent dictator Zia anymore than rewriting the history. Bangladesh without Zia would have been OK and different for the better. Thank you.
-SD
 
"All great truths begin as blasphemies." GBS

From: Muhammad Ali <man1k195709@yahoo.com>
To: "alochona@yahoogroups.com" <alochona@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Sunday, May 20, 2012 1:54 PM
Subject: [mukto-mona] Re: [ALOCHONA] Re: WHY ZIA WAS ASSIGNED ????

 
I have mentioned in one of my early post that Zia did not response to come to help the trapped Bengali officers and soldiers inside the Ctg. Cantonment on 25-26 march , 1971. Rather Zia decided to stay away in Kalurghat area with his force ! Without outside help we have noticed tragic death of thousands of Bengali personnel including valiant officer Col. M.R. Choudhury . If Col. M.R. Choudhury was alive that time , then as a senior officer he would have read the "Declaration Of Independence on behalf of Bangabandhu" !! So, you could replace Zia with a senior officer but could not replace BANGABANDHU with any POLITICIAN !! 
 
Regards,
Dr. Manik. 

From: Shah Deeldar <shahdeeldar@yahoo.com>
To: "alochona@yahoogroups.com" <alochona@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Thursday, May 17, 2012 1:47 PM
Subject: Re: [ALOCHONA] Re: WHY ZIA WAS ASSIGNED ????

 
Well, points are well taken. We would have gotten freedom soon or later even without Mujib. He just enhanced the timing of independence. How Zia contributed to our freedom is still questionable. He was only a soldier at best and came to prominence by that famous announcement. Nobody had any knowledge about this man before March, 1971. Zia should not be compared with Mujib!

Now how Hasina and Zia would deal with our future, that is another another problem. We will discuss that some other time.
-SD 
  
 
"All great truths begin as blasphemies." GBS
From: ezajur <Ezajur@yahoo.com>
To: alochona@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Thursday, May 17, 2012 5:05 AM
Subject: [ALOCHONA] Re: WHY ZIA WAS ASSIGNED ????

 
I didn't say Zia was the main guy - I concurred with you by saying there were many Zias. Mujib was Zia's leader. But Mujib, like Zia, would not have enjoyed the independence of Bangladsh without dependeding on great Muktibahinis and Indian soldiers.

You sound like Sajeda Chowdhury who said that Zia did not fight at all. This sounds unrealistic. But then Sector Commanders and real Mukti Bahini always had to play second fiddle to chickens hiding in India. Real freedom fighters, who held a real gun, seldom hold positions of real power in Awami League or BNP.

Zia was definitely not a god. But Mujib was no god either. Mujib played the greater role in 1971, there is no doubt. They were both fatally flawed and both have the blood of our countrymen on their hands post 1971.

The era of Mujib and Zia is over. May they both rest in peace. The era of Hasina and Khaleda must end if we are to ever to move forward in a meaningful way.

--- In alochona@yahoogroups.com, "Shah Deeldar" <shahdeeldar@...> wrote:
>
> The Zia you are talking about did not really cause the Sun to rise on the 16th December. He made some noise behind the wall of some great Muktibhahinis and Indian soldiers. Pakistanis did not bow their heads to this self proclaimed warrior! Do not create something that he was not! Get some independent references of that man.
> -SD
>
> --- In alochona@yahoogroups.com, "ezajur" <Ezajur@> wrote:
> >
> > Yes there was only Mujib and, just like Zia, he has gone. There were many Zias. And many died in 1971 - Mujib and Zia didn't die in 1971. But without the Zias the country would not have been liberated by Mujib smoking his pipe in Pakistan.
> >
> > Bangladesh is not Zia's country and it's not Mujib's country.
> >
> > --- In alochona@yahoogroups.com, "Shah Deeldar" <shahdeeldar@> wrote:
> > >
> > > There was only one Mujib while there were plenty Zias. Zia did not win the war. With or without Zia, the Bangla destiny would not have changed much!
> > > -SD
> > >
> > > --- In alochona@yahoogroups.com, qar <qrahman@> wrote:
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > He was a freedom fighter from the first day. The freedom you and I enjoy today was due to sacrifices made by many freedom fighters like Zia. I have no problem if you do not agree with his policies in his later life but you sound like an ungrateful person who does not know how to say "Thank you".
> > > >
> > > > Same goes with Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. He was the inspiration for our freedom movement. Although many people do not agree with his politics and policies, we cannot ignore his contribution during 1971.
> > > >
> > > > Why it is so hard for us to give due RESPECT?
> > > >
> > > > Had it not been solders like Ziaur Rahman, you would be signing Pak sar zamin sad baad today very loudly.......
> > > >
> > > > There is NOTHING wrong in criticizing Zia for his policies (He ended up losing life for them anyway) but as a nation we have to have SOME common grounds where we can come together as a nation.
> > > >
> > > > Can we try it please???
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > Shalom!
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > -----Original Message-----
> > > > From: Muhammad Ali <manik195709@>
> > > > To: undisclosed recipients: ;
> > > > Sent: Mon, May 14, 2012 12:07 pm
> > > > Subject: [ALOCHONA] WHY ZIA WAS ASSIGNED ????
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > Being a Bengali Officer , Why Maj. Zia was assigned to unload ARMS & AMMUNITION from a Pakistani Ship at Chittagong Port ?
> > > >
> > > > He was a "DOUBLE AGENT"!
> > > >
> > > > No wonder ISI and BNP are on the same mission to establish the Pro-Pakistani elements in Bangladesh .
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > Dr. Manik
> > > >
> > >
> >
>









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Re: [mukto-mona] Re: [ALOCHONA] Former Saudi Diplomat's Letter to PM S heikh Hasina on War Crimes Trial Issues



What does that make us then? They can criticize us but can't stand up? They can demand criminals to go free but we can't refuse?
It sounds great to me!
-SD
 
"All great truths begin as blasphemies." GBS

From: Mohiuddin Anwar <mohiuddin@netzero.net>
To: abdulmukto-mona@yahoogroups.com; shahdeeldar@yahoo.com; dahuk@yahoogroups.com; chottala@yahoogroups.com; dr.dipumoni@gmail.com; drmohsinali@yahoo.com; abdulbayes@yahoo.com; abdul_momen@hotmail.com
Cc: alochona@yahoogroups.com; mukto-mona@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Sunday, May 20, 2012 2:31 PM
Subject: Re: [mukto-mona] Re: [ALOCHONA] Former Saudi Diplomat's Letter to PM S heikh Hasina on War Crimes Trial Issues

Mr. Shah Deelder,
 
Donot forget that over two million Bangladeshis live  and work in Saudi Arabia (largest in any forien nation)and remitt valuable foreign currencies to energoze our economy. If the relation becomes worse we have to suffer
severly. Saudis already stopped renewing Bangladeshis Aqama(work visa) silently and stopped recruiting Bangladeshi manpower and other nations supplying their manpower
without any difficulity. Our government should be careful about the effect of this Saudi measure.
 

---------- Original Message ----------
From: Shah Deeldar <shahdeeldar@yahoo.com>
To: "alochona@yahoogroups.com" <alochona@yahoogroups.com>
Cc: "mukto-mona@yahoogroups.com" <mukto-mona@yahoogroups.com>
Subject: [mukto-mona] Re: [ALOCHONA] Former Saudi Diplomat's Letter to PM Sheikh Hasina on War Crimes Trial Issues
Date: Sun, 20 May 2012 09:29:44 -0700 (PDT)

 
Saudis should mind their own business! To these idiots, Muslims commit no crime and hence they should not punished unless it is against the Saudi royal family?
-SD
 
"All great truths begin as blasphemies." GBS

From: Nirob Dorshok <nistabdhota@yahoo.com.au>
To: Alochona <alochona@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Friday, May 18, 2012 6:27 AM
Subject: [ALOCHONA] Former Saudi Diplomat's Letter to PM Sheikh Hasina on War Crimes Trial Issues

 
16 May, 2012
 
Letter to Sheikh Hasina

BY DR. ALI ALGHAMDY 

Your Excellency, let me introduce myself to you as a Saudi diplomat who visited Bangladesh before it became independent. I was dispatched in the 1960s by the Saudi government to Chittagong to issue Bangladeshi pilgrims Haj visas. In the 1980s I returned to Bangladesh as a plenipotentiary at the Saudi Embassy in Dhaka.

After retirement, a group of people who love Bangladesh decided to form the Saudi-Bangladeshi Friendship Association in Jeddah. Our objective was to strengthen bilateral relations and help the Bangladesh workforce in the Kingdom. I was honored to be appointed the secretary general of the association. As founders, we did not have any material interests – we just wanted to enhance the relations between the Kingdom and the world's third largest Muslim country.

I was honored to meet your father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in Karachi, specifically at the Round-Table Conference which was held at the behest of President Ayub Khan. The reception was held by G. M. Sayed, Pakistani politician, and I was one of the invitees. I met your father there and was impressed by his charisma and eloquence.

I was honored also to meet you when I was assigned to the Saudi Embassy in Dhaka. During the rule of General Hussein Muhammad Ershad, I followed your activities.

I still vividly remember the day when opposition leaders were arrested and when policemen approached you to arrest you. You said: "Do not touch me, I'm a Muslim woman." This incident depicted the fact that you are a God-fearing Muslim woman. Besides, you were always keen to perform Umrah whenever you had a chance.

For all these reasons, I would like you to read the following points with mercy and justice.
1.  You know very well the difficult circumstances your father faced following his release from prison and return to Dhaka where he took over as Prime Minister and worked hard to solve the problems from which the country was suffering. He issued several laws including the war crimes law by which 195 Pakistani military officers were convicted. The law did not include any Bangladeshi civilian or politician. Besides, the 195 officers were later pardoned, thus your father won the praise and admiration of the entire Muslim world. At the time, he made his famous statement: "I want the world to know that Bangladeshis can forgive and forget."

 2.   At the time of your father's tenure, the government passed a law incriminating those who collaborated with the Pakistani army. Although over 100,000 individuals were arrested, none of them were politicians. Your father decided to pardon and release them. Throughout his tenure, he never leveled charges against any politician. When you became the Prime Minister following the 1996 elections, you did the same. You did not accuse nor did you arrest anyone for war crimes or collaboration with the Pakistani military. You did not do that because your father was decisive about this matter and he pardoned all the individuals involved.

3.      Everyone was surprised when the wise decisions taken by your father were annulled and the issue of war crimes surfaced again. Some consider the revocation of these decisions as disrespect to your father, which is an unacceptable matter. Among those who opposed such revocation was the opposition party and your former government.

4.      Nothing can justify the unjust decision to arrest Muslim leaders who were not arrested during your father's tenure and yours as well. This decision does not bring any good to the country; on the contrary, it divides people and stirs up trouble, a matter which has direct detrimental consequences to you as the leader of the world's third largest Muslim country. As someone who loves Bangladesh and its people, I would like to say that many Muslim leaders all over the Muslim world are upset about the arrest of Muslim groups and leaders such as Professor Ghulam Azam who was accused of charges that no one would believe. He was charged with things that were done 40 years ago. He was not charged with them at the time.

5.      I hope that you will reconsider the decision of arresting those Muslim groups and leaders without justification for such arrests. For the sake of your father who did not arrest anyone on similar charges at the time, please order the release of those arrested as such a decision will win you people's appreciation and will be a way of showing your deep love for your late father.

— Dr. Ali Alghamdy is a former Saudi diplomat who specializes in Southeast Asian affairs. He can be reached at algham@hotmail.com
 


 


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