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Tarique Rahman: The Hope for a Democratic Renaissance in Bangladesh

Feature Article Tarique Rahman: The Hope for a Democratic Renaissance in Bangladesh
SAT, 17 JUN 2023

As Bangladesh stands at the crossroads of socio-political unrest, Tarique Rahman, the leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), emerges as a beacon of hope for the nation. He carries the promise of democratic revival and human rights preservation.

Tarique's political lineage is deeply rooted in Bangladesh's fight for democracy. His father, Ziaur Rahman, the seventh President of Bangladesh, played a pivotal role in steering the nation away from dictatorship. Tarique's mother, Begum Khaleda Zia, who was Bangladesh's first female Prime Minister, was instrumental in restoring democracy in the country. As Tarique takes the helm, the Bangladeshi populace eagerly anticipates a recurrence of history, yearning for a nation that upholds human rights principles and treats its citizens with dignity and respect.

However, fulfilling this aspiration is no easy task. Tarique's leadership will need to resuscitate the faltering rule of law, ensure a fair judicial process, and restore the independence of the judiciary. The predicament of Surendra Kumar Sinha, the twenty-first Chief Justice of Bangladesh, who was allegedly compelled to leave the country, exposes the fragility of the nation's justice system. Under Tarique's rule, the judiciary must regain its credibility and impartiality.

Freedom of expression and association, two pillars of a thriving democracy, must be reinstated in their fullest sense. The culture of fear must be eradicated, and citizens should have the freedom to critique government policies, and join political parties, unions, and religious groups without fear of retribution.

Moreover, equal access to quality education and affordable healthcare must be made a reality for all citizens. This is particularly critical in a nation where education is a privilege of the elite, and healthcare has become a commoditised entity. The establishment of the right to food, water, air, and shelter — the very basics of human survival — will also be crucial.

In the economic realm, Tarique faces the challenge of rejuvenating Bangladesh's economy, which has been crippled by corruption and looting. An effective anti-corruption campaign in both the public and private sectors will be instrumental in restoring the nation's financial health.

An independent judiciary, a human-rights-oriented security apparatus, and a robust economy could be the defining pillars of Tarique's leadership, potentially solidifying the BNP's position for the next few decades.

Establishing close ties with Western nations, which have been allies and development partners of Bangladesh, will be equally important for Tarique. Countries such as Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States, who believe in Tarique's potential to reinstate democracy and the rule of law, could be key supporters in this endeavour.

In conclusion, as Tarique Rahman prepares to navigate these multifaceted challenges, the nation waits in anticipation. The Bangladeshi populace hopes that he will follow in the footsteps of his parents and guide the country towards a democratic renaissance, anchored in the rule of law, human rights, and socio-economic progress."

William Gomes
William Gomes, © 2023

William Gomes is a freelance journalist and human rights activist
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William Gomes, a British-Bangladeshi from York, North Yorkshire, UK, is a prominent anti-racism campaigner and advocate for the rights of displaced people in the United Kingdom. He actively engages in speaking out against racism both locally and nationally.

Throughout his career, William has contributed to various publications such as The Huffington Post, Open Democracy, The Tablet, The Big Issue, The Yorkshire Post, Yorkshire Bylines, Counter Currents, and Counterpunch. He has also held positions with an international human rights organisation and an Italian news agency. Previously, he focused on addressing human rights violations in Bangladesh, including torture, extrajudicial killings, and enforced disappearances. William diligently collaborates with numerous human rights organisations to raise public awareness of global human rights violations, advocate for justice, and hold perpetrators accountable.

Currently, William is pursuing his doctorate at the University of Essex. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Counselling, Coaching, and Mentoring from York St. John University and a Postgraduate Certificate in Counselling. Additionally, he earned a Master's degree in Refugee Care, jointly offered by the University of Essex and The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust. His academic achievements and experience underscore his commitment to social justice and advocacy.
Column: William Gomes

Disclaimer: "The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect ModernGhana official position. ModernGhana will not be responsible or liable for any inaccurate or incorrect statements in the contributions or columns here." Follow our WhatsApp channel for meaningful stories picked for your day.

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