New Age | Corruption and incompetence

IN RURAL Bangladesh, corruption and incompetence plague the education sector because of political interference, bribery and a lack of merit-based appointment. As a lifelong educator with experience teaching from kindergarten to universities around the world, I have witnessed with great pain how members of parliament appoint principals based on the amount of money candidates can hand out rather than on merit. This is an illustration of the deep-rooted corruption in the education sector, where appointment is determined by financial contributions instead of qualifications. This system, controlled by legislators and their associates, perpetuates a cycle of incompetence and corruption, ultimately damaging the quality of education.

Key points

Corruption at the top: The appointment of principals is influenced by political and financial considerations, with donations taking priority over professional qualifications. This reflects a severe abuse of power and a glaring lack of accountability within the education system.

Nepotism and cronyism: Party loyalists are installed in key positions, such as the chair of college committees, further entrenching political influence over educational institutions. This form of cronyism undermines the integrity of the system, allowing unqualified individuals to wield significant authority in educational matters.

Bribery and its consequences: The widespread involvement of principals and committee members in accepting bribes for staff appointment highlights pervasive corruption. As a result, competent and dedicated teachers who cannot afford to pay for their position are sidelined. Consequently, schools and colleges are staffed by individuals who lack both the motivation and the qualifications needed to provide a high standard of education.

Long-term damage: The appointment of incompetent teachers who remain in their positions for decades causes devastating long-term damage, affecting generations of students. These teachers, who often resort to private tutoring to recover their investment, provide substandard education, severely compromising the future prospects of the youth.

Urgency of reform: There is an urgent need for reform in the education sector. A thorough cleansing is essential to restore meritocracy and integrity. Without addressing these critical issues, the future of Bangladesh’s youth is at serious risk as they are denied access to the quality education necessary for national progress and development.

In conclusion, the corruption and incompetence in the education system must be addressed with urgency to secure a good future for the nation. Reforming this system is not just about fixing immediate problems but ensuring long-term prosperity and peace for future generations.

Urgent need

BANGLADESH stands at a critical juncture as public dissatisfaction with existing political structures has reached unprecedented levels. Corruption, the abuse of power and the suppression of democratic values ​​have deeply eroded public trust in both the government and political parties. The time is ripe for a new political movement that prioritizes fairness, transparency and accountability.

Historical background

BANGLADESH’S journey to independence in 1971 was rooted in the people’s desire for self-determination and freedom from the oppressive regime of Pakistan. The victory came after a nine-month war, costing millions of lives, with crucial support from India. However, the early optimism of a prosperous, just, and independent nation quickly faded in the face of political turmoil and instability.

Liberation of Bangladesh

THE birth of Bangladesh was marked by immense sacrifice, hope and the leadership of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Following liberation, Bangladesh was poised to rebuild itself with a vision of democracy and social justice. Unfortunately, failures and incompetence of Mujib and his people created conditions for his assassination in 1975. His death left a leadership vacuum and the aspirations of millions for a fair and free nation were soon overshadowed by authoritarianism.

Military rule and rise of corruption

THE military regimes of Ziaur Rahman and Hussain Muhammad Ershad suppressed democratic institutions and opened the floodgates to systemic corruption. Political oppression became the norm, with both rulers concentrating power while fostering an environment of nepotism and bribery. Economic development, largely driven by the apparel industry and remittances, was often a façade for capital flight and looting of national resources by those in power.

Awami League’s failed promises

SHEIKH Hasina’s return to power with the Awami League initially raised hopes of restoring democracy. Yet, over the years, her administration has become synonymous with authoritarianism and corruption. The concentration of power within her family, political repression, rigged elections and media censorship have eroded public confidence. The unfulfilled promises of governance reform and economic equality have further disillusioned the population, especially the youth.

Economic growth or miracle?

WHILE Bangladesh has experienced economic growth, especially through the apparel sector and remittances, this growth has not been equitably shared. Infrastructure projects, often marred by corruption by quarters close to the ruling party and people in power in civil services, the police and academic institutions and party leaders and wings, have fueled a widening gap between the wealthy elite and the poor majority. Furthermore, vast amounts of wealth have been siphoned abroad by corrupt politicians, bankers, business owners and high officials, robbing the nation of its rightful resources and potential for real development.

2024 student-mass uprising

THE breaking point for many Bangladeshis came in mid-2024 when a student-mass uprising forced prime minister Sheikh Hasina and her loyalists into exile. Frustration about unemployment, corruption and the suppression of free speech galvanized the youth into action. The uprising successfully toppled the regime, paving the way for new governance, but it also highlighted the need for deep structural changes to ensure such a political failure is never repeated.

interim government

IN THE aftermath of the revolution, Dr Muhammad Yunus emerged as a key figure in the interim government. His leadership has focused on tackling the deep-rooted corruption within institutions, rebuilding trust in governance and laying the groundwork for democratic reforms. However, challenges remain, as remnants of the old regime still wield influence, and meaningful reforms require sustained commitment.

New political party

THE events and the failures of existing political parties underscore the urgent need for a new political force. Both the Awami League and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party have repeatedly failed to deliver on their promises, entrenching corruption and eroding democratic norms. A new party must emerge—one rooted in transparency, accountability and clean leadership. Youth and intellectuals, disillusioned with the current political landscape, must take the lead in shaping this fresh movement.

Building new Bangladesh

A RE-IMAGINED Bangladesh requires not only a change in leadership but also a transformative vision. Economic reforms must address inequality, and social reforms should strengthen civil liberties. A democratic framework based on free and fair elections is essential for a just society, with strong institutions and civil society playing key roles in holding accountable leaders. Political transparency and checks on power are critical to ensuring Bangladesh moves away from the cycle of corruption.

Challenges and opportunities

WHILE the formation of a new political party presents challenges — ranging from financial constraints to ideological opposition — the opportunities are equally vast. Growing youth activism, support from international communities and a population hungry for change offer fertile ground for new leadership. Bangladesh’s transformation could also serve as a model for other nations grappling with similar issues, placing it at the forefront of a global movement for political reform.

Time is now for Bangladesh to embrace a new political era. The current political establishment has failed the nation, but the future is full of hope. A new political movement, driven by youth, intellectuals and principled leaders, can lead the country towards a corruption-free, democratic and prosperous future. It is not merely a question of if such a movement will arise, but when. Bangladesh deserves leaders who prioritize the needs of the people over personal gain, and the country is ready for that change.

Dr Mannan Mridha has a PhD degree in biomedical engineering. He has more than 30 years of teaching and research experiences.