Polls meaningless if graft not uprooted

Army chief General Moeen U Ahmed yesterday said holding elections without uprooting corruption would be worthless, as history proves democracy is never strong or stable without honest people governing.
He urged all Bangladeshis to unite and work for the country, while speaking at a civic gathering, attended by over 400 people in Miami, United States, reports the US-based agency News World.
Gen Moeen said, "The country was rescued with the help of the patriotic military when internal enemies were trying to turn the country into a Somalia."
"It will be worthless to hold elections without uprooting corruption. That is why the government has started its drive against corruption … everyone has seen this proved in the past," he said.
He said even though the country gained independence over three decades ago, it is not economically independent yet. He urged everyone to unite as "one nation, one flag and one people" and fight for the country.
"Though the past government created the Anti-corruption Commission, it was corrupt itself. But the present caretaker government made the commission independent as soon as it came to power," he said, adding, "Those who have not committed a crime do not need to be afraid."
"There is nothing we can do if an arrested corruption suspect is proved innocent at court. But no one will be spared if they are proven guilty," he stated.
Meanwhile, over 100 Awami League (AL) supporters demonstrated outside the venue demanding the release of all "political prisoners", including AL chief Sheikh Hasina, and the withdrawal of all sorts of ban on political activities.
Citing an October 13 article published in the Washington Post, titled "A Silent War Against Corruption," Moeen said this is a testament to the nine months of work by the caretaker government and it has improved Bangladesh's image abroad.
Moeen also said, "It is our shame that we are still arguing about the Father of the Nation and who proclaimed independence. But they are our national heroes. Bangabandhu is the Father of the Nation and Ziaur Rahman declared independence. There is no doubt about this."
The army chief urged non-resident Bangladeshis to invest in the country as the investment climate is currently at its best. He called on them to come forward in the interest of the nation.