TIB report on JS not based on reliable info

Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader yesterday said the report published by Transparency International, Bangladesh on parliamentary activities was not based on reliable information.

He said this in response to a question after the formal inauguration of upward extension of Setu Bhaban in the capital in the morning.

The TIB in its report observed that the absolute majority of the ruling Awami League ensured through parliamentary elections intensified their exercise of monopoly power in parliamentary activities.

The scope for discussion in parliament on the implementation of SDGs and objectives was not yet satisfactory, it said.

The graft watchdog came up with the observation unveiling its report "Parliament Watch" through a virtual press conference on Wednesday.

TIB Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman said parliamentary activities were not effective in formulating budgets and laws.

Quader, also the Awami League general secretary, yesterday said although the number of lawmakers from opposition parties is low, they were being given enough time and that they were taking part in all parliament activities.

He said it was not the responsibility of parliament if the opposition parties fail to increase parliamentary seats with people's votes.

The AL general secretary said some of the MPs are lawyers, doctors and some are involved in business. They have come to parliament winning the trust and support of the people and they are taking part in various development activities, which is not a crime, he added.

Quader said it is their regular allegation that the BNP candidates are being intimidated in the by-elections.

Welcoming the BNP's announcement that it would stay in the electoral field till the end of the by-elections, the minister said people do not believe that they would be in the field till the end.

He directed the authorities concerned to complete the work of the project within the stipulated time.