PM, govt embarrassed by activities of some Ministers, MPs

The resignations of two ministers, one state minister and a lawmaker from a reserved seat for women within eight months of the formation of the BNP government have triggered debate and stirred criticisms in political circles, with observers linking the developments to controversial conduct, alleged abuse of power, violations of party discipline and inappropriate public remarks by people holding positions of responsibility.

While Prime Minister Tarique has drawn praise for his grassroots engagements and direct instructions to officials to resolve public problems, however, controversial remarks and activities of some ministers and lawmakers have embarrassed the government. These include inappropriate comments on television talk shows, participation in anti-drug drive carrying firearms, allegations of nepotism and attempt to take over an institution.

*    Two ministers, one state minister, a lawmaker step down in 8 months 
*    PM taking actions against those involved in wrongdoings, controversies: Rizvi

Although the Prime Minister's action against some individuals has sent a strong message, the recurrence of controversies has raised questions about the effectiveness of preventive measures, monitoring and accountability mechanisms.

Meanwhile, the conduct of some ministers and lawmakers has consequences beyond their personal reputations. In the age of social media, controversial remarks and actions spread rapidly, forcing the government to respond to the resulting fallout.

Kamaruzzaman Ratan, BNP lawmaker from Munshiganj-3, apologised for comments he made during a television talk show about the execution of two Bangladeshis in Saudi Arabia. In a statement posted on his verified Facebook account on October 19, he unconditionally withdrew his remarks and expressed regret. 

During a discussion on a private television channel, Ratan reportedly said, “I do not want the bodies of these sinners to come to Bangladesh.” The comments drew criticism on social media and from various quarters, particularly expatriate Bangladeshis and the families of the deceased.

State Minister for Liberation War Affairs Ishraque Hossain's participation in an anti-drug operation while carrying a firearm also placed the government in an embarrassing position.

On Saturday, Ishraque joined a drive near the railway line in Dhaka's Gandaria area. Firearms were seen in his hands and those of associates accompanying him. A video he posted on Facebook quickly circulated online, triggering widespread criticism, although many social media users expressed support for him. Amid unease within the BNP and the government Ishraque announced his resignation at a press conference at the National Press Club on Monday.

Law Minister Md Asaduzzaman said the Prime Minister had made it clear that action would be taken against anyone whose conduct went against public expectations, regardless of their closeness to the leadership. The Prime Minister had demonstrated that principle, he said, adding that no one was above the law.

Chief Whip Nurul Islam Moni has also faced criticism over some statements. While discussing the need to secure victory for the ruling party's candidate in an election, he reportedly warned that residents of the relevant union would face problems and that development work would not be undertaken there if the party's candidate lost. The remarks were criticised as an attempt to exert political pressure and as contrary to democratic principles and electoral conduct.

In another statement, Moni said, “You will divorce mothers with two children; that opportunity is no longer available. This Family Card has stopped divorce.”.

Dipen Dewan, Minister for Chittagong Hill Tracts affairs, resigned on June 1, about three and a half months after taking office. In his resignation letter submitted to the Prime Minister's Office at the Secretariat, he cited health complications that had made it difficult to manage the ministry's regular activities. 

However, differences over restructuring hill district councils, recommendations for the chairman's post and internal politics within the Rangamati BNP also featured in discussions about his departure. Ministry officials expressed surprise, while his followers later demonstrated in Rangamati town demanding that his resignation be withdrawn and he reinstated. They claimed he had been forced to resign.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon resigned on August 22. Andoliv Rahman Partha had been assigned responsibility for the information ministry.  The developments fuelled speculation about whether Swapon had been removed from the ministerial post.

Ishraque's resignation followed the anti-drug operation, while BNP lawmaker Ferdousi Ahmed Misty stepped down after controversy surrounding the Radda Health Centre in Mirpur, Dhaka.

Controversy has also emerged over new fertiliser dealer appointments in Nasirnagar, Brahmanbaria. Allegations have been raised that the son, brother-in-law and niece-in-law of local lawmaker and upazila BNP president MA Hannan were appointed as dealers, with financial transactions.

Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Haque Milon faced criticism after referring to protesting HSC examinees as “farm-raised chicks”. The remark provoked reactions from various quarters. Other controversial statements by the minister responsible for roads, railways and waterways have also fuelled political debate over the conduct of ministers.

BNP Acting Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi told The Daily Observer that BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman had taken strong organisational measures against those involved in wrongdoing and disorder through misuse of the party's name since August 5. He urged party members to avoid unethical activities and focus on constructive work to improve the party's image.

BNP Vice-Chairman Shamsuzzaman Dudu told The Daily Observer that the resignations of Ishraque and Misty had sent a strong message from the Prime Minister that the law applied equally to everyone.

BNP Standing Committee member and lawmaker Selima Rahman said the Prime Minister's message was clear: those in government must observe discipline even more strictly. She said the measures were intended to prevent discrimination in the application of justice.