An article review session was held on January 29,2018, at the Meeting Room of BRAC University Savar Campus. Mr. Istiaque Hossain Molla, faculty member of Bangladesh Studies, discussed the article titled “Practicing Governance: Pitfalls and Potentials – A study of Bangladesh” by Rubayet Khan, Zakir Hossain, Ashiqur Rahman and Md. Shariful Islam.
The article focuses on the governance system and the lack of good governance in Bangladesh. The writers portray the condition of Bangladesh throughout the different ruling periods, beginning with Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and continuing through Ziaur Rahman, HM Ershad, BegumKhaleda Zia, and finally ending with Sheikh Hasina’s period. In addition, they explain the structure of the government and local government system, including why Bangladesh is facing problem regarding good governance. They state that due to lack of accountability of the law makers, members of parliament (MPs) and bureaucrats, the problem is gradually increasing. All the political parties are making law in their favor, which is hampering the country’s growth.
Besides highlighting on some areas that need to be introduced to ensure good governance, the writers also focus on some existing sectors where improvement is needed, such as development of bureaucracy, minimizing nepotism and corruption, proper use of resources, and ensuring freedom of rights to name a few. Furthermore, the writers emphasize that the parliament should play an important role in strengthening parliamentary leadership, strengthening individual accountability of MPs, and involving MPs in budget making process.
After the discussion, the session was opened for comments, where several faculty members shared their views on the issue.