“My family and other animals”
THE implications of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's defence of Shamim Osman are far-reaching. The premier went to bat for the ruling Narayanganj MP in her press briefing on the 31st of May asking if it was a crime for him to ask Nur Hossain to surrender. She reiterated her stance again in parliament on Tuesday when she hinted at 'conspirators' trying to besmirch the Osman family name. According to the Prime Minister, there are very few people in Bangladesh who have been involved in politics who have a completely pristine record. That statement in itself is a shocking indictment which stands to label majority of our politicians as some form of criminal. The pertinent question is whether good governance has become such an elusive entity that it is not difficult to admit that those tasked with upholding the constitutional laws are themselves indulging in illicit activities? Is the political landscape now ridden with so many potholes that corruption has become more of an inevitability than something to fight against? It is also for idle minds to wonder, once the dust has settled on yet another boisterous session of rhetoric from the premier, who are the people that the Prime Minister had in mind when she made that comment. Surely it wasn't an open admission of the long apparent fact that there is rampant corruption inside the cog work of the Awami League?
Continuing in the vein of dynastic-mentality, the Premier said that there have been several instances where 'vested quarters' have tried time and again to attack the good name of a family to further their own interests. There is no doubt in anyone's mind that the Osman family has had a big contribution to our politics. Starting from Khan Shaheb Osman, one of the founders of the Awami League to Nasim Osman, the recently deceased Jatiya Party lawmaker. But again, it puts into stark relief the realization that democracy is not being practiced the way it is meant to be. A democracy is comprised of individuals, not dynasties. Any one with alleged involvement in criminal activity must be brought to book regardless of his lineage. When the premier decided to defend Shamim Osman by bringing up his family's political affiliation she condemned one of the most fundamental democratic ideals. It gives off the idea that perhaps the long arm of the law stops short infront of families with political heritage and clout. The sensible thing would have been to stay mum until Shamim Osman's involvement had been thoroughly investigated. But it is becoming increasingly apparent that foresight is fast becoming a rare commodity. A quick glance through recent rhetoric is evidence enough for that.
The writer is Editorial Assistant, The Daily Star.
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