It would be a gigantic, horrific mistake, and grave injustice to Bangladesh Freedom Fighters – living and dead – if the elections were held this year. A grave injustice.
For the first time in all its 54 years of existence, Bangladesh has a rare opportunity to clean up the horrific mess created by business opportunists and corrupt politicians, shamefully forgetting why the war was fought between Bangladesh and Pakistan.
The war was fought in 1971 to unshackle Bengalis from corruption, and wrongdoings, and provide each and every Bengali a better living. Those who cannot remember as far back as 1971 need only think back to August 2024 when young lives were given up to Allah in patriotic spirit to bring about the justice and reform Bengalis crave.
The Interim Government has only begun the clean-up operation, but certain political parties are pushing for an end to their investigations. Why? Democracy?
Remember Sheikh Hasina used that word in practically every sentence and look where that hypocrisy got us.
American President Donald Trump is having a similar experience as Bangladesh. He, Elon Musk, and their team of professionals have already saved the nation from billions in skullduggery payment wastage.
Their drive in protecting the welfare of American citizens is so successful, that they’re now going to enlarge the team and save even more.
Last year I recall an insightful suggestion made by Sir Frank Peters who is regarded as a “foreign friend of Bangladesh” and undoubtedly he is. (Green Watch 2024/09/25)
He suggested a team of Allah-fearing incorruptible individuals of impeccable character similar to the Eliot Ness team during the American prohibition be established, acting within the ACC or totally independent.
In the pursuit of justice and adherence to the law, they put their lives on the line 24/7 and were not influenced by offers of bribery, intimidation, or even death threats.
I’m in complete agreement with Sir Frank, other than to add that the Bangladesh team should be a large team of Allah-fearing, incorruptible individuals of impeccable character who can sweep through every government department within the shortest time, Allah by their side.
Only those who have something to hide should have reasons to fear.
Any political party that has the best interests of Bangladesh in mind – and nothing to hide – would welcome the once-in-a-lifetime national clean-up, and restore dignity to Bengalis worldwide who are embarrassed and ashamed of the history that pursued our glorious victory of 1971.
The elections should not be held until the clean-up has been completed and Bangladesh is ready to present itself to the world as a dignified low-to-no corruption nation.
Capt. Iqbal Hossain (Retd)
Dhanmondi
