Concerned about democratic rights

When a well-known business leader attempts to write on economic and trade matters, the exercise becomes worthwhile as it is believed to reflect on the subject in myriad shades and forms. Then, when it comes from someone inextricably linked with the political milieu of the country, the experience has to be multi-faceted although there remains the risk of looking at things from a subjective, though not necessarily narrow, point of view.
Abdul Awal Mintoo is a familiar name in the arena of trade and commerce as well as politics. He hardly needs any introduction. He was the President of the Federation of Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industries (FBCCI), the apex association of the country's trade and commerce, and in that capacity he had access and experience of the nitty-gritty of the complex business scenario of the country. Mintoo must have thought, along with his colleagues, on how to provide stimulus to the country's trade and business on one hand and explore new areas and avenues on the other, during his term at the helm of the FBCCI.
Mintoo has also close political links as at the moment he is an adviser to Begum Khaleda Zia, country's main opposition leader. Earlier, he was close to the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina also. But what distinguishes Mintoo from most of the business leaders is his avowed penchant for reading materials and quest for knowledge in different areas. He loves to read and in the process he has developed the knack for writing that covers various areas with special focus on the economy. Anyone who visits the residence of Mintoo would be pleasantly struck by the huge library and the collection of books and publications. Indeed, it is refreshing to see him taking time off their busy schedule to be engrossed in the exercise of the intellect. Admittedly, many of our prominent businessmen have progressed by leaps and bounds in their profession but lagged behind in garnering knowledge, an essential ingredient for the making of business leaders.
Mintoo is not a stranger in the realm of writings and his book Bangladesh - Rajniti O Rajnoitik Arthoniti (politics and political economy) is definitely an addition to our stock of publications at a time when talks are galore on the subject. Even though, he has primarily dealt with trade and commerce in the broad parameter of the economy in the current phase of Bangladesh, the issues are not divorced from politics. The author has applied his experiences in analysing the myriad problems in the economic arena as well as the positive indicators as he swims through the turbulent waters of Bangladesh's political and economic scenario in recent times.
In the 482-page book, he has touched upon multifarious issues ranging from 'reality and wishes" to practically all areas of economy including the banking sector and the role of the central bank in propelling the economy. While he sets forth some prescriptions, he is also mindful about the difficulties in accomplishing the goals owing to complexities that stand in the way.
Mintoo describes quite elaborately the political issues which are unquestionably divisive in Bangladesh as the main political parties and the people hold diametrically opposing views on some key national issues. He has brought in practically all the issues that figure in our discussions and debates like the functioning of democracy, duties and obligations of the government and on top of all, the constitutional matters and well being of the people. He is particularly concerned about democratic rights, which he finds often trampled under the façade of democracy, and is deeply worried at the use of force on settling issues. Well, the author may be right in focusing all these critically important issues, but one may find him at variance since political angle is something that differs from individual to individual. He has stressed on the crying need for new social contracts that he considers essential for rule of law and protecting the fundamental rights of the citizens. On a philosophical note, all these are quite pious wish, but the stark reality is that such rationale hardly leaves room for thought to those who rule the country at a given time. In Bangladesh, ironically, things change as far as the attitude on key subjects is concerned, with the swapping of government and opposition positions. The author appears to be a little oblivious to this reality that needs to be changed in our national life if we mean business.
Mintoo, a conscious observer of the political situation, has given vent to his frustration on many areas in the prevailing conditions and suggested several proposals on issues such as the term of the government and patterns of elections. He has also come up with some ideas for future framework to ensure good governance along with rendering rule of law meaningful. Needless to say, all these at times appear to be holy ideas with the big question "who will bell the cat?" Nevertheless, the ideas put forward in the book are worthwhile in terms of looking for better management of the national and public affairs.
The book is useful in providing detailed information, particularly on the economy and governance. The 482-page book published by Anupam Prokashani looks nice with a cover that reflects the economic and social situation in a symbolic manner. Barring some small printing mistakes, the publication is commendable.
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