Emperor Akihito : An example of humanity and kindness

M A Hossain

Japan's popular Emperor Akihito will ablicate (step down) on health grounds on April 30,2018.This is going to be the first retirement of any Japanese emperor in more than two centuries in the world's oldest imperial family. Emperor Akihito has remained as the most esteemed and admired emperor of Japan for past decades. He also was an ever- smiling emperor of the people - a shunning example of the warm, hospitable and friendly people of Japan.

Japanese emperor is seen as the symbol of country's sovereignty. For centuries, the members of the  imperial family have enjoyed highest esteem and this is possibly one of the very few imperial families who remained out of any controversy.

Emperor Akihito's eldest son, 57 years old Crown Prince Naruhito is expected to ascend the Chrysanthemum Throne  on 01May 2018.

In today's world, it really is very rare, finding an imperial on royal family remaining above any controversy. For example, in Britain, Prince Charles [the next inheritant of the British Throne ] has been the most scandalous member of the royal family. Similarly, we hear about numerous scandals centering the members of the Saudi royal family - starting from fleeing foreign hotels by dodging bills or even getting caught I'm petty shop- lifting. Although the kingdom follows Sharia rule for the citizen, members of the royal family enjoys impunity and indemnity even after committing punishable offenses.

From Saddam to Assad: hot water of the Arab sea

M A Hossain

Most possibly, the final episode of another important chapter of 'Middle East crisis solution formula' has already started. Bashar al Assad,sitting in his lavish palace in Damascus might not have been thought of the ultimate consequence of his getting into wrestle with the West. All though Syria had. refrained from attending the 29th Arab League Summit, it failed in getting sympathy from the members of the Arab League ;including Saudi Arabia.

Following West strike on Douma in Syria, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has said the West has the habit of attacking anyone on suspect, and investigate only after the attack; to prove the attack was based on wrong information.

What ever argument Mr. Lavrov may have in defence of their long time ally - Bashar al Assad,this very statement of the Russian minister clearly proves - days of Russia might had been lost long back. Because in the global scenario, we are continuous seeing, the lone Super Power United States doesn't bother in either arguing or judging issue before they picked up weapons for any offensives. During the Cold War era, neither Moscow nor Washington had any obligation of arguing before they got themselves a party into any of the world affairs. But that was possible only for a Soviet Union - not a broken Russia. For Kremlin, they already have severe conflicts (even war) with few of its neighbours. For example, the Russian invasion in Ukraine in 2014 is no different than Soviet invasion in Afghanistan. During the entire era of Cold War, the most humiliating defeat of the mighty Soviet army were in Afghanistan. Actually this invasion had tremendously damaged the image of Kremlin.

Should Soviet Union never invent Afghanistan, most possibly there would be no Mujahidins or Taliban or Al-Qeeda or so on. As the entire world has been paying the cost of the rise of militancy from the entire Soviet war field in Afghanistan, we can easily assess several options the US and the West - would play initially in Syria and ultimately - in Ukraine, in Chechnya - and beyond.

Iraqi President Saddam Hussein basically digged his grave by invading Kuwait. In fact Iraq gained nothing from it's Kuwait invasion. In my personal opinion, through Kuwait invasion, Saddam Hussein, the blue eyed darling of the West - especially the US turned into their worst enemy all most over night. We need to remember, a Sunni dominated Iraq actually did not want any war with a shia dominated Iran. But it was Iran's Ayatullah Ruhullah Khomeini who dreamt of expanding a shia 'imperialism' into Sunni lands; and he found Iraq as the first choice because Iraq is Iran's nearest neighbour.

Let us look into the socio- economic situation of Iraq and Iran right before the war. Saddam Hussein was a soldier, who dedicated himself in upbringing the socio economic status of Iraq  and its people ; while Iranian rulers like Reza Shah Pahlavi were severely greedy rulers - and Khomeini was a clergyman having no real knowledge of governance, economy, diplomacy or even defence. For decades where Iranian people were struggling due to autocratic monarchism and Khomeini's dictatorship; Iraqi were heading towards progress and prosperity at a very speedy pace. Where even an Iraqi from the lower income group could afford personal vehicles and even housemaids, Iranian in the same social status were battling in even managing their daily food. Khomeini, instead of copying the development policies of Saddam, started feeling envy of a prosperous Iraq and plotted a nasty game of indulging into hostilities with his Sunni neighbour. Due to consistent provocation of Tehran, Saddam Hussein had no options left in getting into military confrontation with the Khomeini regime. At this confrontation, while Saddam had all the support from the US and his Western allies, Khomeini had to seek Soviet cooperation. The result of Iraq - Iran war went totally against Tehran. Saddam taught befitting lesson to the 'shia radicals'. Although Khomeini got a strong slap on his face he didn't stop there. Instead, he started plotting another conspiracy against Iraq.

Few of the Saddam's top aides were secretly purchased by the Iranian intelligence agency who had given the wrong formula of an Iraqi imperialism in the Middle East into Saddam's mind. And of course humans are not above errors. Saddam did step into the trap of Khomeini and all on a sudden went into Kuwait invasion. All though he could not sustain, but this invasion turned Saddam totally isolated from the Westerns world and transformed him into an enemy of Washington.

Although Kuwait invasion didn't bring any good result for Saddam but it opened the doors and windows for the US and its allies in establishing their presence in the Middle East. What Afghanistan war could not do for the US and West ; the Kuwait invasion not only did serve the US- West purpose - but much beyond. In the name of protecting Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, the Americans actually had very successfully placed those nations into its absolute grip.

Although, Kuwait invasion and the subsequent incident had led Saddam Hussein into absolute doom,Iran neither was a beneficiary nor it helped Tehran in improving its relations with the US. Here again, I want to put my opinion. In the Middle East, we are although seeing two players - the US and the European Union ; but actually the main player is US, while rest are mere weapon merchants. The leader in the Middle East issue certainly is President Donald Trump; while Theresa May of the UK, Angela Merkel of Germany, Emmanuel Macron of France - all are simply a micro factor.

We have to remember one part. In the Middle East although Iran is the main enemy of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh doesn't consider Lebanese Hezbollah (shia militia group) and any of the shia forces in Yemen or Syria as its brethren. To Saudi Arabia, even a country like Israel is a better choice than Iran or any of shia nations. Why? Because a Jewish Israel does not either aspire of capturing the KSA or ousting the ruling monarch from that country ; while Iran most definitely has the agenda of a Saudi invasion as well toppling dawn the Wahhabi monarchs from that country. In this agenda Iran enjoys open or silent support from the shia population in the Middle East.

The billion dollar question is - can Tehran really succeed in turning its daydream into a reality?  It could in fact, if Iran could create several strong allies in the Middle East. Let us remember - Iran is geographically in the Parisian Gulf - not exactly in the Middle East. To establish its dominance over the Saudi Arabia, Iran had to actually transform shia nation like Syria and Lebanon into a strong nation. Both economically and militarily. It also needed to establish shia dominance in Yemen as well as in Iraq. Most definitely, Tehran was advancing towards achieving this goal. To strengthen Syria's defence and military sectors, Iran had brought North Korea into a very deep and warm relations with Damascus. Similarly there had been Iranians hand behind Bashar al Assad's growing relations with Moscow. Though this relations between Damascus, Moscow and Pyongyang, Tehran wanted to establish another shia nuclear nation in the Middle East. Unfortunately Sunni nations like Saudi Arabia might not have even sensed this nuclearization ambition of the shia nations. This is clearly an intelligence failure of the kingdom.

The Kuwait invasion resulted in Saddam demise. The Syria conflict will not only bring an end to Assad era but it actually will begin the process of a dramatic collapse of the Iranian regimes as well as similar fate to the shia factors in the Middle East. Above all, the fall of Assad will actually be the beginning episode of the fall of Moscow as well as fall of Tehran. Lets keep watching this interesting episode!    

This article also published at:
1.Modern Ghana, Ghana :24April 2018
2.The New Nation, Bangladesh:09May2018
3.Globoble.com
4.Pressbox.co.uk
5.Sunnyfmgh,Ghana

Does ARSA at all exist?

M A Hossain

Myanmar government, citing intelligence reports projects ARSA (Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army) as a 'growing terrorist group'. The reports say, ARSA already has achieved sufficient strength and a large number of ARSA fighters are being trained in different countries. Myanmar even claims to have a list of 1300 ARSA members.

But, in my personal opinion, either  ARSA is a non- existent entity or it might be just a paper- entity created by none but the Myanmar military strategists to make an excuse of driving - away over one million Rohingya Muslims by falsely branding them as Bangladeshis. And my opinion is based on solid facts and figures. Should there be any organization named ARSA with minimum military strength, there would have been series of attacks on Myanmar's military establishments in particular, as Myanmar authorities are continuing Holocaust on its Muslim population. Reports of so-called attacks by ARSA on Myanmar's army and police camps also seems to be cooked up by Myanmar's security agencies. Pattern of these attacks do not match with those of real terrorist groups. No real terrorist group can at all sustain against any government with crude bombs,machetes and wooden or bamboo sticks. 

Democratic autocracy versus military rule:

M A Hossain

None of the real democracies in the world are at all concern about military intervention. Because, members of the Armed Forces certainly are genuine patriots. They never show any ambition in intervening in politics unless the politicians are caught to be enemies of the nations. The tendency of democratic autocracy are prevalent in most of the developing or under developed nations. For example, if we thoroughly look into the cases of Robert Mugabe or Jacob Zuma, although both of them are interpreted as corrupts; but in reality they truly are autocrats. The very political systems of Zimbabwe and South Africa are defective. In the name of democracy, unfortunately Zimbabwe has gone under the authoritarian rule of Janu PF party while South Africa has by enlarge gone under the whims of the African National Congress (ANC). Technically though this nations proclaim to be democracies, but in reality this are autocracies under one party rule.

The tendency of establishing autocracy under the grab of democracy initially emerge in South Asia ; when a elected government in Bangladesh tried to impose Stalinist-styled one party rule, and or Indira Gandhi's foul bid in prolonging her tenure by declaring state of emergency. It is already a part of history, that Indira Gandhi, daughter of Pundit Jawaharlal Nehru and Prime Minister of one of the largest democracy in the world had practically not exhibited any sign of a leader having minimum respect for democratic values. Instead Ms Indira was one of the cruelest dictators in the world. She not only pushed her political opponents into prison but she also had declare a cold war against the military establishment. It is true that Indira Gandhi had very successfully broke the back bone of Khalistan movement by utilizing India's military force. She  even had used a fraction of Armed Forces in down sizing her political rivals. But after proclaiming state of emergency she actually had used the Indian Armed Forces against the majority of the people of the country. In other words, she pushed the military establishment in a head collision situation against the masses.

In the US, it is tantamount to sedition uttering any comment against country's Armed Forces. Even a Presidential candidate Donald Trump had faced extreme criticism for his slight comments against the parents of a military officer who sacrifice his life for the country. In the eyes of the Americans such families are - Golden Families. A very genuine, grateful and deep expression of patriotism.

In Britain, members of the Armed Forces are considered as the best sons and daughters of the nation.

We need to clearly understand a fact, each of the members of the Armed Forces are committedly ready in sacrificing their lives for protecting the sovereignty of the nation. If we compare them with a politicians, easily we can find a contrast result. Politicians though proclaim of dedicating their lives for the nation, in reality, they instead of dedicating, simply concentrate  in make fortune out of politics. Where mockery is randomly found in politicians, it can hardly be found in a real member of the Armed Forces.

For the sake of political interest, politicians can use anything as a mere tool of success. They can even use religious sentiment for such wrong desire. In the recent incident of self-styled Indian 'god man' named Asaram Bapu, this god man granted a certificate of divine ship through Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It is reported in the media, Modi was regularly visiting Bapu for seeking his blessings. Now it has been known to the world that Asaram Bapu was no godman. He actually is a rapist, deceptor, pretendor and a fraud. Those politicians who visited him frequently for seeking blessings may also now be labelled as - disciples of fake individual like Asaram. It is easily anticipated that the mighty followers of Asaram did exert their wrong influence in saving their guru. But, it is the vibrant Indian media and a section of patriotic civil military establishment who had finally defeated the wrong influence and succeeded in punishing Asaram Bapu.

Although in the recent past most of the autocratic regimes had considered the Armed Forces as the number one enemy of democracy ; they have shifted from their previous perceptions. Now, to all of the autocratic rulers, anyone opposing to their political philosophies are grossly branded as enemies of democracy. In some cases they even are branded as enemies of the nation.

Democracy unfortunately has been losing steam in many of the countries in the world. Although we are showing total concern about our country's independence of sovereignty. We never realize, our independence of sovereignty are extremely at risk in the hands of power- monger and greedy politicians. If we can consider our sovereignty as a female child, we are sending them into the 'Ashrams' of some rotten individual like Asaram Bapu. Meaning we are either putting our sovereignty into gamble or letting the rogue politicians in screwing our very sovereignty for sake of their petty interest.

Still can we think such rotten democracies are better than military rules?    

This article also published at:
1.South Asia Journal, NJ,USA:01may2018
2.Modern Ghana, Ghana :27April 2018  

Right cost of wrong diplomacy -1:

M A Hossain

Even before two years, Aung Sun Suu Kyi was adored and admired as the icon of democracy and human rights. Two years later - now, the same person has turned into a top villain of democracy and human rights. Lots of international organizations and institutions had already taken back the awards, prizes, and accolades conferred to Suu Kyi. In politics, a slightest mistake would cost a gravest
consequence. In diplomacy, the cost of errors are even much bigger and wider. The case of Rohingya persecution has exposed the radical Buddhist face of the Myanmar authorities. Aung Sun Suu Kyi although had faced criticism from the world, she still enjoys unconditional support from China - a country that feels extremely comfortable in romancing with a loyal and dedicated 'friend'. Moreover this romance is extremely beneficial to both the nations. In this case India actually is playing the role of Ravan (a Hindu religious villain), which actually is trying to snatch Myanmar from the bed of China. Aung Sun Suu Kyi may not clearly realize the Ravan hidden inside smiling face of India. Like Hindu goddess 'Shita' (Hindu god Ramcharan's wife), Suu Kyi even may cross the red lines drawn by China; giving an excellent opportunity to India in 'kidnapping' her. But in reality an intelligent Aung Sun Suu Kyi will never do that. Because she precisely knows the cost Bangladesh has been paying for maintaining and uneven relations with India. She knows, India is not the friend in need- but it is the 'friend' filled with luster and greed.

Although China has been giving diplomatic orgasm to Sue Kyi and her predecessors, it also not is an angel.

Realizing this after 68 years, North Korean leader Kim Jung Un is eagerly waiting to meet President Donald Trump, to resolve the crisis in the Korean Peninsula. For decades Beijing had extracted undue advantages from North Korea taking full advantage of its isolation. Once the Peninsula crisis is over although North Korea will be relieved of isolation ; the most beneficiary will be South Korea - America's long time friend. Meaning, here again President Donald Trump too is not an angel. What he is doing is actually for the benefit of South Korea. In fact there is no room for any angel in diplomacy. Diplomacy is the art of smart people, but if it goes to the hands of a power-monger unpatriotic leader - it always will bring extremely bitter fruit - if not devastating.

From the local media it has become clear that the international community has suddenly lost interest in Rohingya issue. Most possibly they are not going to be generous again providing  billions of dollars required for meeting basic requirements of these unfortunate people.

This makes me terribly disturbed. Because I am sensing a return of 1974 famine in Bangladesh. My readers may argue, the Rohingya crisis won't have any adverse effect on all the people of Bangladesh. Instead it may have an impact on the Rohingyas and the people of Chottogram [Chittagong] and hill tracks. Wish their thought was true. But unfortunately the effect is going to be hitting everyone in Bangladesh - every undergoing development projects in Bangladesh. If our national exchequer gets exhausted in buying food and basic requirements worth billions of dollars for the Rohingyas, it will ultimately leave a huge pressure on our entire  economy. The government may not even have sufficient fund to ensure a buffer stock of food grains. Meaning, during the upcoming rainy season, God forbid, if there is flood in Bangladesh similarly as 2017- we are going to be trapped into a very catastrophic situation. In that case, Indian traders will abruptly increase export price of the food grains [taking undue advantage of our helplessness], while Thailand and Vietnam may not even show unexpected kindness on us. In than case our only source of importing rice at a fair price will be Pakistan - and may be even Myanmar. I personally don't think Myanmar is either going to exhibit decency. In that case, can we expect decency from Pakistan?

When we are heading towards an unexpected hurdle with the Rohingya issue, Westerners already have started voicing concern about forced disappearances and extra judicial killings. That's no  good news for us!


This article also published at:
1.South Asia Journal, NJ,USA,titled"Status of democracy and regional cooperation in South Asia":25April 2018
2.Modern Ghana, Ghana :25April2018
3.Globoble.com
4.Sunnyfmgh.Ghana

For heaven's sake, please don't rot dignity of the judiciary!

M A Hossain

Britain is the oldest democracy,  while the United State is one of the finest democracies in the world. Democratic systems also prevail in most of the European nations as well as that of the Australian continent. In Asia, we can see  strong democracies in Japan, Republic of Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, Indonesia etcetera. None of these nations ever proclaim their judiciary to be neutral; because, there is no controversy centering neutrality of their judiciaries. They understand -  the key element of a real democracy are an unbiased judiciary.

In every country in the world, autocracies,  especially those autocracies under the garb of democracy would turn judiciary into their purpose-serving elements. They not only would rot the system but would transform a powerful and neutral judiciary into Kangaroo Courts. By doing so, they would establish rule of jungle instead of rule of law. Although such tendencies and actions ultimately turn to be counter-productive;  but excessive greed of capturing power by hook or by crook, very certainly vapors the minimum level oof morality in the autocrats and they not only become power-greedy monsters, but also lack minimum level of human qualities.

In the authoritarian, Communist and Socialist rules, judiciaries not only become undignified but also turns into mere pimps (if not slaves) of the ruling elites. Under such rules, judges do not enjoy respect and esteem in the society. Instead they slip into the status of mere pick-pockets as well as rascals of the highest order.

But there is an exception, and most possibly the only exception. Pakistan, since its independence in 1947 though had witness many ups and downs; and had gone under crude military rule for a number of times - no one even touched the judiciary or had attempted in rotting its image. Most possibly it has been possible because of highest degree of self-respect and dignity of the Pakistani judges and the members of the judicial system. They didn't aspire in sacrificing their dignity and honor for getting any undue favours from the ruling elites. Members of the Pakistani judicial system are not purpose- serving thugs of any political parties or regimes.

It always is a matter of greatest shame and dismay when a judge, including those in the apex courts are publicly exposed as activists and even thuggish cadres of any political party. A politically motivated or biased individual can never become a responsible, sensible and respectable judge or member of the judiciary anywhere in the world. But of course, there are several shameless creatures on this earth, who very proudly occupy the respectable seats in the judiciary by wearing a political badge. We only can compare them with filthy street hookers or member of female trafficking rackets. May be even worst! Most definitely, these people are of lowest mentality and of no self esteem. For the sake of petty interest, they even won't hesitate in sending their wives and daughters (even their own mothers) into the bed of someone they desperately want to please.

We may have our own arguments to differ, but ever since publication of the study report by German based think tank Bartelsmann Stiftung; the current  government in Bangladesh  are being repeatedly referred as an autocracy. Almost everyday, opinion editorials and commentaries are being published in the international news outlets claiming - there is no rule of law in Bangladesh and the country has gone into the 'tight grips' of a 'cruel dictatorship'. Such campaigns are unfortunately continuing unprotested and even un- addressed from the Bangladesh side; which ultimately is giving authenticity and credence to such claims. Most alarming part is, the arguments and references being made in this materials are very strong and it even can put a regular reader into either confusions or helpless endorsers of the facts.

There are two major points prominently placed into those materials - confrontation between the judiciary and the President;; and 'cold war' between the judiciary and the Armed Forces. Moreover, these materials are questioning the very integrity of the entire judicial system, including the apex courts on the issue of its silence on forced disappearances and extra- judicial and judicial killings. By using the terminology of judicial killing, they actually are portraying our judiciaries (including the apex courts) as an abettor of forced disappearances and secret killings. These materials are such strong in reasons and arguments (even specific evidences) that it even had put me into serious confusions. Let me cite here few of their arguments :

Justice Khairul Haque controversy:

It says, Chief Justice Khairul Haque, instead of performing neutrality had exposedly performed as a party cadre of Bangladesh Awami League in exchange of financial benefits ; and had made amendments in the constitution as per the desire of the ruling elites. Justice Khairul Haque's partisan behavior has put Bangladesh's democracy into jeopardy as he abruptly had trashed the provision of caretaker government during the general election. Since restoration of democracy from the previous autocracies in 1990, the election- time caretaker government system had, by and large, been proved extremely effective in Bangladesh. But, the ruling Bangladesh Awami league wanted to drop this provisions from the constitution with the ulterior desire of remaining in power indefinitely. In Justice Khairul Haque, they found the best purpose serving man required to execute this dishonest desire of the ruling elites. By doing so,Justice Khairul Haque had seriously tarnished the image of the apex judiciary in general and the position of Chief Justice in particular.

Journo couple Sagar- Runi murder investigation :

Although journalist couple Sagar Sarwar and Meherun Runi were slaughtered in 2012 at their residence in Dhaka, none of the investigation agencies had been able to unearthing the mystery during past six plus years. Each time, the investigating agencies are seeking time and the apex court 'very graciously' are granting their time petitions. It had been rumored that the couple were investigating multi billion dollar corruption in the energy sector (including the quick rental power plants), and there had been hands of some extremely influential quarters in the government behind this murder.

Ruling party MP Bodi- Rana bail controversy:

A notorious drug baron and proven culprit from Coxsbazar, Abdur Rahman Bodi, also a ruling party lawmaker, was arrested on corruption charges and even convicted by the court. But this man had no problem in getting released on bail just within weeks. While on the other hand, another ruling party MP Amanur Rahman Khan Rana from Tangail constituency was arrested in a 'murder case', several months back. A media offensive continued against him mostly in anti Awami League newspapers, As he is a sitting MP, President Abdul Hamid is sending letters to Rana asking him to join the parliament sessions. Accordingly he has been seeking bail to join the parliament session as well as sending letters to speaker Dr. Shirin Sharmin Chowdhury seeking her cooperation In attending the parliament as per the directives of the President. The apex court is not showing any head to this popular leader and law maker's pleas, while the unelected MP turned Speaker Dr. Shirin is not having the motal courage of even touching the letter from Amanur Rahman Khan Rana, MP (elected with huge differences) as she has been instructed by her 'boss' of ignoring any such letters of Mr. Rana. People may raise questions as to who holds the remote control of this unelected Speaker and why in the world, Bangladesh had to plant a novice and an unelected person into the position of Speaker. Was that a kind of undue favour? If so, then what makes Dr. Shirin sharmin so lucky? 

When the apex court had no problem (in fact also no shame) in freeing a notorious drug barron, a culprit and a corrupt like Abdur Rahman Bodi on bail, what stops then in granting bail to a popular leader and a sitting lawmaker Amanur Rahman Khan  Rana? Bodi not only is a drug mafia but also a corrupt individual; and unfortunately Bangladesh has gone into the 'feather' of being 'corrupt' had made a much desired darling of the corruption - plagued ruling elites. Or is it because the apex courts in Bangladesh too consider the 10th parliament as a mere rubber-stamp parliament like those autocratic and authoritarian nations; if so, then by refusing bail to MP Rana, the apex court actually has also exposed the existing parliament as a mockery thus holding it as illegitimate. Of course, any member of an illegitimate parliament does not deserve any legal protection. At the same time, apex court's decision actually has turned Sheikh Hasina and her government as illegal.

January 2014 voter less election controversy:

Entire world but Russia, China, and India had rejected the voter less 2014 general election in Bangladesh, where 153 MPs were elected unopposed. Similar incident  took place in 1973. Too much for any country proclaiming to be democracy. Should such things ever happen even in Pakistan, the apex court would have issued suo- moto rule (as they did in case of Panama Paper scandal and unseated Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif) and would have declared the election null and void and directed the parties concerned to go for a fresh election participated by all the parties. But  in case of Bangladesh, the apex court did not have any such guts; because it lacks morality and dignity.

Narayangonj 7- murder verdict: 

Former Chief Justice Surendra Kumar Sinha out of his grudge against the Bangladesh Armed Forces (as because, he not only is a corrupt and a man of moral turpitude; but also is a proven collaborator of the anti liberation forces) had put all of his enthusiasms and energy in quickly upholding the wrong verdict of a lower court awarding death penalty to three patriotic officers of the Bangladesh Armed Forces. Justice Sinha had got his desire accomplished through a loyal bench in the high court division. By wrongly convicting these army personals and even upholding the wrong judgement in the apex court - Bangladesh judiciary had created a solid document proving, members of the Bangladesh Armed Forces as contract killers, abductors, culprits, extortionist, criminals and what not! If these patriotic soldiers will have to face the gallows because of obeying the order of their senior officials, in future, for sure, dozens of officers of the Bangladesh Armed Forces will embrace the same fate as they had to execute orders from the top brasses in forced disappearances and extra judicial killings.

Are we prepared for that?


This article also published at:
1.Modern Ghana,Ghana :22April 2018
2.South Asia Journal,NJ,USA; titled"Bangladesh: tinted judiciary":23April 2018
3.Ghana Nation:22April 2018
4.pressbox.co.uk

  

Fake democracy always poses grave threat to sovereignty!

M A Hossain

There is no room for adopting any self- styled democracy by replacing the theory of Abraham Lincoln's democracy. In today's world, we hear from some rulers that development is more important than democracy. As if the so-called development is unimpeded and not subject to any retardation; and as if nothing can hold back any country's growth and development despite corruption and violation of human rights. Those who are trying to replace democracy with the so-called development or self styled democracy actually are pushing the nation under a brutal autocracy.

If we look into Myanmar, for example, Aung San Suu Kyi may pretend as an 'icon' of democracy, but in reality, what she actually has established is simply hypocrisy, mixed with uncontrolled rogue governance. Under the fake democracy of Suu Kyi, Myanmar's natural and mineral resources are already offered to foreign vested groups, ignoring the national interest. In fact she has transformed Myanmar into a political brothel, where any global power can take undue advantages simply by assuring so-called support to Suu Kyi and her team. By doing so, she is in reality putting the very sovereignty of the country into auction. People may argue with me saying, Myanmar's military junta had in fact isolated the country from rest of the world. They [military junta] were corrupts and cruel.

Partially true! Myanmar's military junta l were corrupt and cruel; because they were actually not purely military rulers. It was a kind of pseudo military rule combined with socialism, religious extremism [Buddhism] and even so-called democracy. In the end, it turn into a complete mess. Any true military ruler can neither be corrupt nor cruel. Instead they are core ideologist in upholding sovereignty and dignity of their own nation.

We have heard of corruption of the politicians in Thailand. In fact army had to intervene every time to save Thailand from the grips of  corrupt politicians. Naturally politicians are the main rivals of the Thai army. Question is - when corruption allegations had been almost regularly brought against most of the Thai politicians, why the politicians never could bring any corruption charges against military rulers? The answer is - military officers in Thailand,  by and large are honest.

Now let me look into Egypt's Abdel Fatah al Sisi. He may be a cruel ruler but can anyone bring a single corruption allegation against him?

How about South Korea's military dictator General Park Chung Hee or Singapore's military dictator Lee Kuan Yew? Should there be no military rule in South Korea or Singapore - these countries would have still remained as poor nations. But again, there are no corruption allegation against either of them.

In Pakistan, if we look into military rule of Field Marshal Ayub Khan, General Muhammad  Zia-ul Haq or General Pervez Musharraf; Ayub and Zia were pure military rulers. While Musharraf was an over-ambitious individual under military uniform. Musharraf wanted to become a politician, while Ayub and Zia were soldiers. Naturally corruption allegations could be brought against Musharraf - but not against Ayub or Zia.

There is a distinctive difference between an army and a politician. No one can questions the patriotism of any real military  personnel; but patriotism of a politician, unfortunately can mostly be put under doubt. An military personnel can not overtake any country's rule out of greed or out of over ambition. A man in uniform, remains a man in uniform throughout the life - even after his retirement. To him or her, the only priority is the country. Not anything else. But, when the desire of becoming a politician gets into the mind of any military personnel s/he will automatically turn polluted. They will either indulge into corruption, or nepotism, or mockery, or abuse of rule of law, or everything combined. A military personnel can never be a good politician. Because politics and defence are totally different world.

The question is - why and when the army should interfere into any country's governance. Actually they should not; unless the country goes into the wrong hands of corrupt politicians, and country's sovereignty are put on stake. If any such situation occurs anywhere in the world, army will have no alternative but to seize power thus save the nation as part of their sacred oath.

If the patriotic army are compelled in seizing power anywhere in the world, they must exhibit a total neutrality. And for the sake of nation's interest, sometimes they need to be cruel on the enemies of the country. They must realize, corrupt politicians are the major enemies of any country. Accepting  this fact, they must deal into this matter militarily. Instead of creating an exit for the corrupt politicians in fleeing the country and seeking asylum aboard - army should put them under trail - for corruption, nepotism and even treason. And of course these corrupt politicians must face gallows - not garlands.

This article also. published at:
1.South Asia Journal, NJ,USA:25April 2018
2.Modern Ghana, Ghana :21April 2018
3.Globoble.com
4.Boomnaija.Nigeria :21April 2018
5.pressbox.co.uk
6.The New Nation, Bangladesh: 23April 2018

India wants a milking cow typed regime in Bangladesh!

M A Hossain

India's radical Hindus love cows, they worship cows. Because,  cows are their mothers, they're children of the cow. In Bangla, we refer to an idiot or duffer as a bull - the male gender of the cow. Unfortunately, since past nine plus years, we are being ruled by the acolytes of cows and bulls. To the Indian policymakers, Bangladesh Awami League has been an obedient milking cow. Sheikh Hasina gave everything to India in exchange of nothing - even not a single drop of water from the common rivers. Instead,  she has been commitedly serving Indian purposess, as the head of a subservient government of Hindutva India. Everyone knows [even German thinktank Bartelsmann Stiftung had said in its report] that Sheikh Hasina is a cruel autocrat - a dictator. But the so-called democratic India has no problem in romancing with an autocrat just because it is their subservient lapdog and a milking cow.

The outragious report:

An article titled 'Bangladesh polls pose a challenge to regional stability' by Manoj Joshi of the Observer Reserach Foundation (ORF), an  organization in India has caught my eyes. The entire article is nothing but a propaganda material aimed at demonizing the existing relations between Bangladesh and China; the sentiment of the Bangladeshi people and with the ulterior motive of continuing a subservient pro-Indian government in Bangladesh.

He wrote: "Elections are expected in Bangladesh soon, as by law they must take place between October 31 and December 31 this year. This is not an easy prospect either for Bangladesh [Bangladesh Awami League] or for its principal neighbor, India [who wants a milking cow typed government in Bangladesh].

"The previous general election in 2014 was marred by violence and was boycotted by the Bangladesh National Party (BNP). It saw a turnout of just 22% [Rubbish! An election held without any participation of the voters can't have such turnout. In fact, the turnout was just below 5 percent]. The international community [the United States in particular and Britain] is hoping that the elections this time around are more credible and help stabilize the polity of this volatile country, which is witnessing the ggrowth of Islamist radicalism [being created by the ruling autocrat to legitimice their illegal rule]."

He wrote: "India’s perspectives on Bangladesh have been shaped by the experience of the governance of the BNP in the 1991-96 and 2001-06 periods, when Islamist militancy took root in the country and separatists and terrorists in India received covert Pakistani support as the Bangladesh authorities looked the other way [it was BNP which arrested ULFA leader Anup Chetia in 1997]."

Manoj wrote: "Islamist groups such as Jamaat-e-Islami, Harkat-ul-Jihad al-Islami Bangladesh and Jamiat-ul-Mujahideen have been around for a while, and now Islamic State (ISIS) and al-Qaeda [Al Qaeda in Indian Subcontinent are continuing terrorism inside Bangladesh by using Indian soil. Meaning, India is the breeding ground of terrorism and are exporting terrorism in the region] also claim a presence on its soil. And recent years have also seen suicide attacks [some of these suicide attackers got fund from Saradha chit fund from the Trinamool Congress in the West Bengal in India as well as sacks of cash]."

Finally the nasty desire of Manoj and his masters exposed:

He wrote: "For that reason, the prospect of any government other than one run by the Awami League and current Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is viewed with some dismay by India [Yeah, because any patriotic government won't become subservient to the unholy desire of the Hindutva radicals]. For the record, though, India insists it is neutral with regard to the two parties [only if both parties agree to perform as India's milking cow], and during her visit to the country last October, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj also met with BNP chief Begun Khaleda Zia and held talks with party officials."

What actually is India's fear?

India understands very well, the days of their dominance in Bangladesh is almost at the end. A new government will have closer ties with China. US and the West, instead if foolishly depending solely on a shrewed and greedy India. Moreover,  any uncertainty centering the next general election will possibly leave no other room but a military intervention in Bangladesh; and for sure,  every member of the Bangladesh Armed Forces are patriotic soldiers and they will certainly not compromise with the sovereignty of their motherland.

This article also published at:

1.Modern Ghana, Ghana:20April 2018

2.Globoble.com

3.Sunnyfmgh,Ghana 

Autocracy under the mask of democracy - 4: Turning judiciary into shameless kangaroo court!

M A Hossain

When an autocratic regime comes into power by swallowing democratic values, the first target of such evil forces always are judiciary. Because independent judiciary are the major enemies and obstacles for the authoritarian rules. But there are some exceptions. For example, in Pakistan although democracy is being consistently turned into a mere ping-pong ball, dignity and independence judiciary always remain unquestioned. This is one of the finest examples of a civilized nation, which though remain silent at the helplessness of democracy, it never allows judiciary either in putting its dignity into gambling table or turning the judiciary into a mere purpose serving concubine of the rulers. Such excellent instances even are rare in India, which boasts as the world's largest democracy.

We have recently observed how Pakistani apex court even did not hesitate in expelling a sitting prime minister on the scandal of Panama Papers. But dozens of names of corrupt individuals from South Asia appeared in the Panama Papers and Paradise Papers; and the apex courts did not care even in questioning any of them whose names appeared in either of the leaks.

Indian Supreme Count has very certainly gone totally rogue. We have witnessed the serious corruption allegation charges brought against Indian chief justice, who instead of steping out of the very prestigious chair had actually applied numerous tricks in sticking into his position. Though the chief justice had saved his skin, it is easily understood that he ultimately would turn into a purpose serving element of the ruling elites.

Ruling party and its leaders can onward easily blackmail the chief justice and get the endorsement of the apex court on any of their political agendas. This has actually put the entire nation at absolute risk.

In Bangladesh, we also have witnessed with greatest dismay the way chief justice Surendra Kumar Sinha (the first ever Hindu chief justice) had to leave the office with tremendous humiliation; just because the ruling party didn't like his observations made in the judgement of the 16th amendment of the constitution. At the advise of President Abdul Hamid, members of the appellate division of the Supreme Court gladly published a statement in the supreme court's website giving descriptions of justice Sinha's series of crimes; including corruption, money laundering, moral turpitude   and fraud. The nation clearly realized - the ruling party had appointed a petty thief - a dacoit - a cheater and a man of serious disgrace into the position of chief justice of the country. Why did they do so? Because the ruling elites wanted to actually hold the entire judiciary as hostage by planting such a nasty  individual in the position of chief justice.

Should Sinha never cross the 'red line' set by the ruling party, he would remain as an 'angel', a 'patriot', a man of 'intrigity', and 'dignity'.

Though we have luckily been able to know the real face of this culprit, we really don't know how many of 'Sinhas' still are occupying the sacred seats of our entire judicial system. Possibly, we will never know this. Because a band of corrupts and thieves would never touch any of their 'colleagues' unless that colleague goes against the agenda of the band of corrupts.

Because of such sorry state of our judicial system, dozens of extremely sensational cases such as the murder of journalist couple Sagar Sarowar and his wife Meherun Runy; rape and murder case of Sohagi Jahan Tanu etc etc etc still remain in the cold storage of the investigating agencies.

Same allegations can be brought against the judiciary in the case of extra judicial killing and force disappearance.

Attacks on judiciary aren't only seen in the countries under autocratic rule, but also democratic nation like USA. We are seeing how President Donald Trump has been consistently threatening judiciary like a wild cowboy if not a hooligan.

In Philippines, what President Rodrigo Duterte is doing in the name of combating narcotics is nothing but a clear case of crime against humanity.

In Thailand, the problem actually was initiated by Yingluck Shinawatra, member of the corrupt Shinawatra Dynasty. By taking undue advantage of her absolute majority in the parliament,  Yingluck had made a constitutional amendment paving ways for restoring her corrupt brother,  Thaksin Shinawatra into politics.  As it is said,absolute power corrupts absolutely; in case of Yingluck, it had been proven again.

But, we can't appreciate the Thai military rulers, who though had salvaged the country from the notorious clutches of Shinawatra Dynasty - they really didn't do justice to their patriotism by allowing Yingluck in fleeing Thailand, escaping legal consequences.

In Maldives, the President even didn't hesitate in sending troops to the supreme court (to frighten the judges) when its judgement went in favor of exiled leader Mohammed Nashid.  

Unfortunately, such practice of torning down the apron of 'the Lady Justice' may place a full nude judiciary into a heavy crowded global society, but it won't ultimately bring anything good to anyone.

Hopefully President Trump and others in the US as well as blind and proud leaders in the world will just  think- what will happen to them once they are out of power. Are they ready to accept series of injustice in near future?

This article also published at:
1.Modern Ghana, Ghana:18April 2018
2.Globoble.com
3.Sunnyfmgh,Ghana
4.pressbox.co.uk

Uncompromising journalist Manik Mia's Daily Ittefaq has put its dignity on gamble!

M A Hossain

Legendary journalist Tofazzal Hussain (Manik Mia) has already made a prominent position in the subcontinent because of his extraordinary courage, patriotism  and intellect. None of the journalists of his time had been able to reach the height Manik Mia did. To the newspaper readers in the erstwhile East Pakistan and an independent Bangladesh, Daily Ittefaq enjoyed  a special place because of its prolific and unbiased reporting. Pakistani policy makers were always comparing the Bangla  Daily Ittefaq with leading Urdu daily the Jung. To the readers in the West Bengal in India, Ittefaq was the Ananda Bazar Patrika,published from East Pakistan. This huge popularity and acceptability of the Ittefaq has put this into the rank of the largest daily.

The gracious period of Ittefaq simply faded- out when it went into exclusive control of Anwar Hossain Manju, Manik Mia's younger son; who has already been proven as a political opportunist. Abandoning the dignity of being the editors of Ittefaq he was running after political opportunities. As a result, he became a cabinet minister in military dictator General Hussain Muhammed Ershad's cabinet. When Ershad formed his Jatiyo Party, Manju became its secretary general. He was considered as a blue-eyed boy in the inner circle of this military dictator. Following the fall of Ershad in 1990, Manju returned to Ittefaq as its editor. In 1996,when Bangladesh Awami League came to power with the supports of military dictator Ershad's Jatiyo Party and Jamaat e Islami; Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina formed a coalition with Ershad's party and Manju once again became a minister. Later he betrayed with Ershad and became a defacto leader of Jatiyo Party. Later he floated Jatiyo Party (JP- Manju) fraction.

In 2007,when military backed interim government came to power and began offensives on corruption, Anwar Hossain Manju fled the country with his wife Tasmima Hossain and took shelter in the US. He returned to Bangladesh in 2009 only after Awami League returned to power. For next few years, he was busy in facing corruption cases.

In 2014, when Awami League managed to retain a second consecutive term through a controversial election, Manju became a part of the government and once again - became a minister. His wife, Tasmima Hossain became the acting editor of Ittefaq.  By then, people had already realized Ittefaq becoming a mere propaganda machine of the government. The newspaper lost readership significantly and turned into sixth largest Bangla dailies from the rank of number one.

On 16 April 2018, this daily newspaper most possibly has committed suicide by publishing a twisted report against the students who had demonstrated against the quota system in the public jobs. Everyone clearly understood, it was Manju who plotted this wrong game simply with the desire of getting some 'extra kindness' from Sheikh Hasina. Through this report Manik Mia's Ittefaq has clinically died!

This article also published at:
1.Modern Ghana, Ghana
2.Globoble.com
3.Sunnyfmgh,Ghana
4.Ghana. direct. news
5.Ghana nation, Ghana

Autocracy under democratic mask:(part-3): Wrong tactics of the autocrats certainly would 'blow-back'.

M A Hossain

Germany's Adolph Hitler had his propaganda minister Joseph Goebbels, who in the name of defending his boss and the Nazi forces were always catering false, fabricated, concocted and even twisted information. But,the most devastating part of Goebbels's media adventures, that went against Hitler was the publication of a fake story centering conversation of a local journalist with an enemy of Hitler.  The news got great coverage as usual. But, as the news already was printed in the paper, Goebbels came to know the journalist he identified as an enemy of Hitler; actually was an ally of him and the reported conversation were actually between that journalist and Hitler himself. This incident of 'blowback' not only turn Hitler terribly furious but it also put Goebbels into hot water.

On 12 April 2018, the state owned Bangladesh Television (BTV) during news hour did telecast a telephonic conversation between Bangladesh National Party (BNP)'s senior vice chairman in exile, Tarique Rahman and professor Mamun of Dhaka University. As per role issued by the High Court Division of Bangladesh Supreme Court broadcasting or publishing any such content of Tarique Rahman is illegal. Because he is a convicted fugitive in the eyes of the law. By telecasting this BTV, the information minister Hasanul Haq Innu and state minister Tarana Halim had violated the direction of the appex court. But the appex court already has not only turn spineless but also has lost it's moral guts in raising finger at any of them member of ruling club.

What ever the court ruling be - this broadcast actually went very much in favor of BNP and its fugitive vice chairman. How? By broadcasting this Innu and his band of idiots did leave an impression with the nation, that Tarique a very popular and extremely mighty leader ; who could cow-down the ruling government and even kneeled down the Prime Minister sitting thousand Kilometer away from Bangladesh. This also let the people realize, Awami League actually lacking popular support and even moral courage. This quota issue, though was a movement of the student had actually generated huge political mileage to BNP - just because of the stupid broadcast of the Tarique's telephonic conversation.

When Titanic hit the iceberg the captain and chief engineer were making wrong decision being puzzled at this unexpected disaster. Similarly, people like Innu or Tarana might have been in the 'honeymoon mood' for last nine and half years ; and they actually are absolutely unprepared in confronting any of the political opponents of the ruling party - politically. Well, politics in Bangladesh, especially for the ruling party - every thing is done by the member of the law enforcing agencies. Ruling party men and women are busy in building their fortune and making a foolproof planing of settling in any foreign country after the sudden end of the tenure of Awami League.As the famous novel by Jeffry Archer named 'Shall we tell the president' - in our country the pundits surrounding the Prime Minister would never tell her the adverse effect of the broadcast of Tarique's telephonic conversation. Because in past several years they actually have developed the habit of sycophancy. They never exposed the truth to the Prime Minister. Instead they always suffer from a 'shall we tell the Prime Minister' phobia. This situation is extremely risky for any head of the government.

The blowback of wrong policies had already started, and it will continue until the hour of political doom of Bangladesh Awami League. 


This article also published at:
1.Modern Ghana, Ghana :15April 2018
2.Globoble.com/news
3.Sunnyfmgh,Ghana
4.Ghana.direct.news
5.wn.com/article 

Autocracy under democratic mask:(part -2) Autocrats always create Frankensteins!

M A Hossain

Every autocrat, for the sake of prolonging their tenure through muscle power would either shake hands with civil military administration, religious bigots or students and youths. This experiment though initially turns to be effective and fruitful but in long run, these element ultimately become the key factor behind the total doom of the authoritarian regimes.

In Bangladesh, very surprisingly, a democratically elected government with landslide victory did unnecessarily accord absolute freehand to the students and youth comrades of their party fronts. Taking fullest and undue advantages of such 'unrestricted' permit of doing and undoing anything, at the very first hour of the tenure of the government the student front comrades went into thuggish lawlessness and hooliganism; starting from molesting and rapping female students in the campuses, murders, extortions, anarchism and what not! Though it seems, the head of these political fronts were unhappy and even annoyed at such severe barbarism ; but in reality, it was unfortunately proven time and again that either the Supreme leader were made captive into the hands of these unruly 'student' gangsters or it were actually happening at the silent green signal from the supreme command.

Though we never prescribe people's autocracy or any other theory replacing a bad democracy or even rotten democracy; or extreme hypocrisy under the disguise of democracy - but witnessing the current scenarios in most of the so-called democratic nations we may start thinking of any alternative.

In India, under the banner of democracy an extreme degree of repression, persecution and even barbarism are continuing on the non Hindu minorities clearly with the patronization and instigation of the Hindutva political monsters. Every other day, Muslims in particular or even Dalits (lower cast Hindus), are being murdered, assaulted, rapped or even burnt alive by the followers of radical 'saffron battalions'. This battalions are unwilling in giving any rights to the religious minorities in India. In their theory - persecution of religious minorities are part of their sacred religious obligations.

In Bangladesh, the student front in particular of the ruling party have already crossed all the limits of audacities towards the nation. The rulers might have though, this Frankenstein is going to protect them from any opposition force, if and when required; but in reality seeing the unruly actions of the ruling party comrades and being aggrieved - real student and youth power have already been waken up against each of wrong doings of the rulers. This particular force played vital role in 1953-language movement 1969- mass revolution, 1971- war of independence and 1990- movement against dictatorship. They will return on the street time and again!

This article also published at:
1.Modern Ghana, Ghana :14April 2018
2.Ghana Nation, Ghana :14April 2018

A poet who denounced the imperialists

M A Hossain

For many reasons, the national poet of Bangladesh, Kazi Nazrul Islam will remain as an iconic figure to anti imperialist forces around the world. Born in a poor family, Nazrul could not pursue higher education due to acute financial hardship. But he emerged not only as a great revolutionary poet but also as a mighty writer and an extremely courageous newspaper editor.

In West Bengal in India, poet Sukanta is respected as a great revolutionarist, who too portrayed the social imbalances through his writings. Sukanta's poems Runner or Obak Prithibi are considered as epic. His poems and songs played a vital role in the anti - British movements in India, which ultimately led to the emergence of an independent India. Unfortunately, Sukanta does not enjoy appreciation from the ruling elites in today's Hindi- language dominated Indian politics.

Poet Rabindra Nath Tagore, a Nobel laureate was born in a rich and influential family. He and his ancestors  were landlords. Tagore had opportunity of writing novels,poems and song sitting in the luxurious cushions of elegance. He was an ever romantic individual, who would fall in love with anyone much younger in age and create superb novels, poems and songs expressing his infinite romance and physical desires for them.

During the British imperialist rule in India Tagore penned a poem in the honour of King Edward the 8th - which surprisingly had been selected as the national anthem of independent India by Jawaharlal Nehru and Mahatma Gandhi- the freedom fighters who fought against the British rulers.

In case of Bangladesh, we truly are blessed with a national poet who not only stood firm against social imbalances and imperialist rulers as well as brutal dictatorships,but also his songs and poems had played vital role in the 1952-language movement ;1969-mass revolt against Pakistan ;1971- war of independence of Bangladesh ;and subsequent military dictatorships and elected autocracies in Bangladesh. For these reasons, Nazrul has a special place in the heart of the people of Bangladesh. But,dictators and autocrats would never like him. Instead, they would make frantic efforts in placing Tagore at a higher position than Nazrul.

Founding father of Bangladesh, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was not only a great patriot but also a mighty anti imperialist. He had always opposed to autocracy and dictatorship. That is why he was a great fan and admirer of Kazi Nazul Islam. It was him who recognised  Nazrul as the national poet of Bangladesh.

But everyone is not Mujib! Instead Bangladesh has unfortunately gone into the hands of corrupts,dictators and autocrats- time and again ; and to all of them Nazrul emerged as a great 'class enemy'. That is why, they had adopted a policy of promoting Tagore as the greatest poet and had always made foul attempt either of ignoring or even denouncing Nazrul.

People may argue with me saying Tagore was much bigger figure than Nazrul and had enjoyed global repute. I never said, Tagore is smaller than Nazrul. And if we have to look for great poets and writers beyond our boarder then certainly we can find legendary figures like William Shakespeare, Allama Iqbal, Mirza Ghalib,Jalal Uddin Rumy,Mark Twain and many others. In the name of appreciating this great souls and legendary figures we really can't afford to ignore our own national poet.

That is the point of my argument and dismay.

Autocracy under democratic mask:(part-1) Najib steps forward in tightening autocracy in Malaysia.

M A Hossain

Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak has set the next polls date on weekday, which former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad is seeing as a foul bid of a corruption-plagued Razak of further renewing his autocratic rule. Mahathir (92) who was Malaysian premier for over two decades is seen as the potential next Prime Minister of Malaysia. But Najib and his Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition are applying all possible tricks in keeping Mahathir out of power by hook or by crook.

Razak's BN coalition, which has been in power for six decades, has seen his popularity wane in recent years, a slide further compounded a multi-billion dollar scandal surrounding state fund 1MDB.

It is said in a proverb - absolute power corrupts absolutely. And it is once again proved in the Malaysian case. A party remain in power for six decades? Is that democracy? Or ruthless autocracy under the mask of democracy?

In my personal opinion, democracy is losing steam in every country in the world. Be. it Malaysia, or United Kingdom or even the United States of America. In the US what is going on in the name of democracy is nothing but a cheap comedy show. How many of the top aids of Donald Trump did resign during the past one and half year? If we carefully look into the list,possibly there will be no room for argument in saying ; none of the top figures in the Trump administration actually are having real confidence on the mere Play Boy President. If this is the face of the so-called democracy in the US- the entire world needs to feel terribly disturbed and concerned. Because United States is holding the largest stock of nuclear weapons. If such tremendous stock of Weapon of Mass Destruction (WMD) goes into the hands of a whimsical figure like Donald Trump; who knows when this man would push the large button of nuclear boom instead of Twitter? Isn't a nuclear United States now appears to be much volatile than any other nation including DPRK?

President Trump is terribly worried about DPRK having nuclear bomb. But who is going to tell this mightiest leader in the world - the world actually are almost hostage into the grips of a  nuclear USA where they have foul leaders like Donald Trump,Hillary Clinton etc?

Now the main question - which of the philosophies the world need to applaud? Democracy, dictatorship or people's autocracy? Or even the so-called formula of replacing democracy with development? Actually any formula under the democratic garb are simply unworkable. Those who are trying to convince the world, pretending themselves as democratic - progress is priority than democracy, rule of law,freedom of press or even human rights, are actually trying to mislead everyone. When any one pretending to be democratic tries to spray the opium of development on their nation, they actually forget a plain fact - any opium of development by a regime lacking good governance would actually emerge as lethal poison.

Of late, we are witnessing many of the 'democratic' governments opting the pretension of development in order to legitimize their brutal autocracy under the cover of democracy. In some countries, policy makers are even replacing democracy with ultra nationalist religious extremism. In those countries where religious extremism are on rise,senseless radicals are finding excellent opportunity in spreading the venom of religious hatred under state patronization. Let it be the 'mad cow phobia' in India or 'Golen phobia' in Turkey.

None of the formulas or policies created or invented by human beings are perfect. Neither communism, nor socialism or even democracy. Where Carl Marks finds grounds Abraham Lincoln simply gets drowned. Where Abraham Lincoln finds support, Lenin turns bankrupt. The world actually is making experiment of these philosophies, or ideologies or formulas until something  absolutely perfect would emerge in front of all of us.

In my opinion, Malaysia already is heading towards a totally unknown fate. It is unclear as to when this country may get relieved of the decades old autocracy of Banisan Nasional. Possibly in past six plus decades Malaysians could not produce a better leader than a dictator like Mahathir Mohamad or corruption plagued autocrat like Najib Razak. If this uncertainty will continue further, Malaysia ultimately will turn into a rogue state.

This article also published at:
1.Malaysia Today,Malaysia :13April 2018
2.Modern Ghana, Ghana :13April 2018
3.pressbox.co.uk
4.sunnyfmgh,Ghana
5.Daily Asian Age,Bangladesh :21April 2018
6.babab.net,newsstand.google.com 

'Three State Policy' is the only solution to Middle East crisis

M A Hossain

When Israelis are preparing to celebrate their 70th Founding Anniversary, the forces of the Jewish state are continuing massacre on the independence aspirant Palestinian masses. The confrontation centering Jerusalem, which began in 1948 seems to be a political deadlock unresolvable in the nearest future. By oppressing the Palestinians, Israel actually is putting it's own existence into potential threat. If policy makers in Israel think they can uproot the Palestinian freedom movement, they actually are totally wrong! Aspiration of independence can't be gauged either through oppression or even genocide. If not today in the nearest future, Israel will pay a heavy price for its ruthless behaviour with the Palestinians.

For the past few decades, especially after the Oslo Peace Accord, we are hearing the arguments between Israel and Palestine on the Two State formula. Israel is ready to accept the formula if only Jerusalem becomes it's capital; on the other hand Palestinians are not prepare to accept anything unless Jerusalem becomes their capital. As a result of this hard bargains and bloody conflict, Palestinians practically gain nothing. But an hegemonic Israel has not only trashed the Oslo Peace Accord but also has illegally declare Jerusalem as his capital. Of course this unilateral declaration doesn't get any support from the world except Mr. Donald Trump. Meaning Jerusalem is not going to be the capital of Israel.

Let us now look into the history. The creation of Vatican Holy City as the Spiritual Capital of the Catholic Christians, had actually saved Vatican from being merged with Italy. Should there be no Vatican, that particular part of the world would simply became another part of Italy. No one in the world has any argument against Vatican city, because Vatican is a spiritual country - not political. Taking example from this, we have to reboot our thoughts on the two state formula.

In my personal opinion, Jerusalem is a holy and spiritual land. Politics should not either enter or pollute this holiness. Jerusalem is sacred to Christians, Muslims and Jews. All of the three religions have equal rights on Jerusalem. A spiritual Jerusalem neither belongs to Israel nor to Palestine. It should emerge as a separate spiritual country (similar as Vatican) for the Christians, Muslims and Jews. Israel will exist with its capital in Tel Aviv while Palestine will exist in Ramallah. Spiritual leaders of Christianity, Islamic and Judaism  will govern the Holy city of Jerusalem, a separate country, free from politics. This is called a Three State formula ; and I am delightedly presenting this formula to the world.

The Middle East crisis actually will find no solution either through two state or one state formula. International community should understand, conflict in that part of the world is actually giving space to emergence of political Islam and militancy. This crisis neither can be solved by radical Jews or senseless Muslims. And intervention of the third party, for example a joint commission from by the UN, EU, OIC, ASEAN and even SAARC to work out the Three State formula and compel both Israel and Palestine to accept it. Any party refusing to accept this recommendation of of the international community, should face tough sanctions.

Before Israel waves its national flag on its 70th Founding Anniversary, this Three State formula should be put on discussion and if possible turned into a reality with in next one year. I know Palestine and Israel are not in the proper mental condition of accepting this only workable formula. But in course of time they too will say in chorus - Jerusalem is a separate country - the spiritual place of Christians,Jews and Muslims. And for that point fresh breeze of peace will start flowing in the Middle East.


This article also published at:
1. Modern Ghana, Ghana :11April 2018
2.Sunnyfm.gh,Ghana
3.The New Nation, Bangladesh :12April 2018
4.The National, UAE: 16May2018

Potential risks if peace process breaks in Korean Peninsula. (part-4)

M A Hossain

In the name of establishing democracy, the West had already given birth to ruthless autocracies in a number of Afro-Arab nations. On the other hand,West also are extending silent support to dictatorship in countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia,Maldives, Philippines, Malaysia and even Bangladesh. It has already become crystal clear that actually the Western eagerness for democracy is nothing but a mere game -plan. They are already to accept, even collaborate with autocracies or dictatorship once those regimes readily accept in performing as their puppets. In the case of establishing peace in the Korean Peninsula, the hidden agenda of establishing democracy or replacing autocracy with a Western -styled democracy would ultimately turn into the biggest obstacles. President Donald Trump actually will have two cards in his pocket when he will meet DPR Korea(DPRK) leader Marshal Kim Jong Un. First, he would demand denuclearisation of DPRK and opening -up the doors for 'foreign investment '-second, impose much harsher sanctions on Pyongyang. Under the Plan-B,President Trump will apply all of his methods in totally isolating DPRK from rest of the world. Let us not forget, the new secretary of State of the US is Mike Pompeo; and new National Security Advisor is John Bolton. Both of them are violently against  Iran, for example, China and the 'anti-West' regimes in the world. For sure, both Pompeo and Bolton are not going to adopt softer attitude towards DPRK. To them, America is first ;and for America, a resolution to the Korean crisis would mean losing the sure prospect of multi-billion dollar military equipment business with Republic of Korea(ROK) and Japan. At the same time, withdrawal of American troops from ROK and Japan. Meaning, Washington will lose its military presence in that region, through which they had been keeping eyes on China and Russia..

These are the bottle - necks.

Similarly as the US administration would never give nod to the Gun Control Act,they most possibly won't abandon their huge profit making venture in the Korean Peninsula and the neighbouring countries. At least for the nearest future.

So there is a potential risk of an abrupt demise of the peace process, due to the US and West. If this fear turns into reality, then the real danger will actually emerge at the forefront. Both the leaders from ROK and DPRK are showing sincerest attitude in restoring peace. But any complications created by the US would put ROK side into serious discomfort. They may even become helpless. On the other hand,withdrawal from the peace process and further punitive sanctions on the DPRK would actually leave just a single option for Pyongyang - fire several inter- continental ballistic missiles loaded with nuclear war- head. Meaning, a third World War. Are we prepared for that?


This article also published at:
1.Modern Ghana, Ghana :09April2018
2.pressbox.co.uk
3.Boomnaija.ng,Nigeria:09April 2018
5.globoble.com

Possible sabotagers of Korean peace process. (part-3)

M A Hossain

A peaceful solution of the Korean crisis would bring extremely positive result to Republic of Korea (ROK) and DPR Korea (DPRK) in particular;while neighbouring nations like China and Japan would also get benefited. Naturally all of this parties would sincerely look for peace. But,the most loser would be the United States of America, the European Union and even Russia. Establishment of peace in Korean Peninsula would mean Japan and ROK's request to Washington in wrapping up their military presence from this countries. It would also narrow the scope of so called US-ROK or US-Japan joint military drills. This peace will shut the doors for the US,EU and Russia in selling arms and military equipment worth billions of dollars to Japan, ROK and even DPRK. Naturally, the possible losers in fact wouldn't aspire any resolution of the crisis even in the distant future. Washington and the European Union capitals will not leave any stone untouched in ensuring the crisis remains within the womb of volcano. Because for the Westerners selling of arms and military equipments is one of the major source of income. For this reason they create a crisis, keep a crisis alive and continue making profit out of the crisis. Be it crisis in the Korean Peninsula, crisis in Iraq or Syria, crisis in African continents or the militancy crisis funded and created by the westerners for ultimately serving the economic interest of those nations.

My Korean friends, should remember, westerners are not crisis solvers, and they will create any obstacle in some how sabotaging the peace process. If the Koreans want peace, they should try to find the best possible way through bilateral discussion and negotiation without welcoming the Western wolves or vulture into this sensitive issue. I can almost guarantee the upcoming meeting between US President Donald Trump and DPRK leader Marshal  Kim Jong Un is going to turn into the beginning of further complications. For the sake of dignity of the Koreans, Americans or any other hostile forces should not be allowed to poke their nose into the internal affairs of the Korean people. In US, Americans already are saying " we are not world police. why shall we bother ourselves in saving Muslims in Afghanistan and the Middle East?" Very true! Who asked you to become the world police?  It is you,the Uncle Sam who sneaked nose into the Muslim world and turned this peaceful world into a battle ground. At the cost of lives of thousands of Muslims - unending miseries men,women and children, you are making quick bucks by selling arms and ammunitions. I would rather suggest Mr. Trump and the Western leaders to abandon their bad habit of being the world police. Stop it now - and let it begin from the Korean Peninsula peace process.

This article also published at:
1.Modern Ghana, Ghana :08April 2018
2.Sunny, gh,Ghana:08April 2018
3.Globoble.com/news
4.Boomnaija.ng,Nigeria:08April 2018
5.Ghana Nation,Ghana:08April 2018
6.The New Nation, Bangladesh :11April 2018

All of us want peace in Korean Peninsula (part-2)

M A Hossain

When I say 'all of us' it means those who had warm and cordial relations both with Republic of Korea (ROK) and DPR Korea (DPRK).For example, Bangladesh. We had always wanted solution to the Korean crisis because to us, Koreans -both from ROK and DPRK are our  natural friends and allies. In bangla there is a proverb- "when a child cries, a witch cries more than the mother ". It is essential for the Koreans to draw a thick line, if not a Great wall between their friends and enemies. 

Unfortunately, taking undue advantages of the Korean crisis, ROK had turned into a milking cow especially to the US and generally to the Western nations. Japan too had to bear the tremendous burden of financial pressure as because those US-West club of opportunists had use DPRK as a scarecrow to Japan and had extracted billions of dollars by selling so called sophisticated defence equipments. We hear about ROK's accusation at Japan for abusing Korean girls and women during the world war era. But now, both ROK and Japan are actually pushing their girls and women in falling prey to American soldiers stationed in both the countries. From a book title 'The Ghost War', I learnt how the Americans soldiers had created some pimps in supplying lorry-loaded Iraqi girls and women to American camps. Meaning America were playing with the dignity and social values of our Iraqi sisters. There is no doubt, some episode of American  perversion are continuing with my Japan and south Korean's sisters. As a human being I personally can never allow such extreme hostility.

Japan consider the US as their protectors. Hopefully my Japanese friends aren't having goldfish memory. When I see American soldiers standing on the soil of Japan, I can't control my anger. Because fathers and forefathers of this soldiers had been behind dropping of atomic bombs in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Children of the victims of Hiroshima and Nagasaki massacre most definitely can't forgive America for committing such crime against humanity. Nor they can forget. If Prime Minister Shinzo Abe thinks,Washington is their savior, with all my respect to him I can say a nation which could commit brutalities like that had been happened in Hiroshima and Nagasaki ;can never be saviors- or even friend. Instead they are blood enemies.

My readers may think,I am unnecessarily bringing a dark past into present for giving provocation to anti - West sentiment. But I can assure here, my intentions are not foul. Rather it is time for all of us to understand and realize a plain fact -westerners are never our natural allies. Instead of depending on the West we have to find solution to our Asian crisis through the help of our Asian neighbours. For example, China or even India could play very significant rule in resolving the existing crisis in the Korean Peninsula. Or may be ROK and DPRK can bilaterally resolve this crisis without letting any third party in interfering into their 'family affairs'. 

There is no argument- historically and culturally Koreans are one. A single family! Why should they engage any vested quarters in sneaking nose into their own affairs. For finding a smooth road to resolve the crisis, ROK President Moon Jae-in should have multiple meetings with DPRK leader Marshal Kim Jong Un and I have no doubt, once this two brothers enhance their interactions confidence will automatically generate from it. ROK should not step into American or Western demands of denuclearisation of DPRK. Once any country achieved that status, they would not retreat from being recognized as a nuclear nation. Can I expect, before the coming winter, ice will start melting in the relations of ROK and  DPRK.

 From Bangladesh, we can delightedly say,long live Republic of Korea - long live DPR Korea.


This article also published at:
1.Modern Ghana, Ghana :07April 2018
2.Sunny.gh,Ghana:07April 2018
3.pressbox.co.uk
4.Boomnaija.ng,Nigeria:07April 2018

Peace in the Korean Peninsula lies with the creation of 'Koryo Union'(part-1)

M A Hossain

Finally the international community seems to get its sense back on the issue of resolving the existing political standoff in Korean Peninsula. In the past,I have repeatedly said undue pressure and illogical sanctions on the DPR Korea would bring counter productive rresult As a defence analyst I can clearly understand the sentiment of a patriotic leader like Marshal Kim Jong Un. First of all let me clarify,to me Korean people, be it the peoples of the Republic of Korea,or the peoples of DPR Korea are friends. Bangladesh has historic relations both the Koreas. As a key summit, which I am seeing as a summit of beginning of a new era of prosperity and peace in the Korean Peninsula is scheduled for next month. This article is written with an honest desire of offering a mutually respectable formula to the leaders of both the Koreas.

Ever since division of Korea in 1950,Republic of Korea (ROK) is talking about unification of Koreas,while DPR Korea is demanding re- unification of Korea. This is the major obstacle in finding a lasting peace formula. I don't think the people of DPR Korea would go under the administration of Seoul while the people of ROK won't accept the leadership of Pyongyang. In my judgement Korean people definitely should be brought under a single umbrella keeping two political system for two of the Koreas. Meaning, a 'Koryo Union' comprising Republic of Korea and DPR Korea is the only workable solution. Under the Koryo Union, there will be a common military force to ensure sovereignty of both the Korea as well assure peaceful coexistence with the neighbouring countries like Japan, China and beyond. Republic of Korea can utilize the huge skilled and semi skilled manpower of DPR Korea ;while Pyongyang can explore its massive mineral and natural resources with the technical collaboration of China, Japan and ROK which definitely would transform DPRK into a developed nation within the span of maximum 7-8 years. On the other hand, ROK can establish Koryo Union Special Economic Zone both in ROK and DPRK under mutually agreeable proportion. The Koryo Union can have common airline, common shipping agency and even common currency. This common currency would be an additional one, keeping the existing currencies of both Koreas in circulation. While DPRK's Won and ROK's Won would be a local currency while currency of the Koryo Union would emerge as a international currency. In this case we can cite the example of Chinese Yuan and Foreign Exchange Certificate (FEC) or the Britain's model. While being in EU both British Pound and EU's EURO are in circulation in Britain. For  many years existence the two currencies never create any problem in the UK.

Creation of the Koryo Union will help both the member countries of the union in reducing their defence budget. Meaning both side will have fund available for socio-economic development. Currently DPRK has approximately 22 million members in the Korean Peoples Army (KPA).They are well trained, fully equipped and above all absolutely dedicated to their motherland. On the other hand Republic of Korea has around 300thousand members in his army who to are equally capable as the KPA members. But defence expenditure of the ROK is much higher. Because they also have to bear the burden of paying costs to approximately 14 thousand soldiers from US defence forces. In addition to this, ROK are rather compelled in buying military equipments worth billions of dollar each year. Formation of the Koryo Union will most certainly relieve ROK from this huge expenditure. Not only that! Because of the tension in the Korean peninsula, countries like Japan even are compelled in spending billions of dollar in defence sector every year. Should there be no such burden, countries like Japan or ROK would be most beneficiaries. Now the main question, which may even jeopardise the much expected peace process is, United States and Western country's undue demand of denuclearization of DPRK. I personally don't believe, Marshal Kim Jong Un is going to accept this. DPRK is already a nuclear power. Accepting this fact, if ROK and the US will sit with DPRK, definitely can anticipate a very pleasant outcome.

Congratulation to the inhabitants of the Koryo Union.

This article also published at:
1.Modern Ghana, Ghana :06April 2018
2.globoble.com
3.pressbox.co.uk
4.Boomnaija.Nigeria:06April 2018
5.The New Nation, Bangladesh:08April 2018
6.Sunny.gh,Ghana:06April 2018.