Homegrown policy for good governance underscored
They also observed that the donor-driven policy cannot ensure good governance; there should be a homegrown visionary policy reflecting the genuine aspirations of the people.
They were speaking at a working session of a conference on human rights and good governance, organised by Manusher Jonno and partners at BIAM auditorium in the city.
Eminent economist Dr Atiur Rahman presented a keynote paper at the session on 'Role of international institutions in promoting good governance: Bangladesh perspective', moderated by Mahfuz Anam, editor of The Daily Star.
Economist MM Akash and Dr Rashidan Islam took part in the discussion on the keynote paper.
In his keynote paper, Dr Atiur Rahman was critical of the role of international institutions like the World Bank, IMF and UNDP.
They are playing a significant role in addressing the challenges to governance stemming from various socio-economic crisis, but their initiatives are not always adequate to reap long-term benefits for the citizens, he said.
"The international institutions are welcome to participate in our development effort, but we have to design our own agenda," he added.
MM Akash observed that the World Bank (WB) often made suggestions on various sectors but it itself did not follow those.
He also questioned the transparency in the activities of the bank and criticised it for seeking immunity for all its activities in Bangladesh.
Mahfuz Anam stressed the need for a check and balance on the executive to ensure good governance.
The donors got the chance to make suggestions because of the failure in governance, he observed.
Rashidan Islam said good governance is a prerequisite for economic development in the country.
She called for framing a specific time-bound plan of action for important sectors on an urgent basis.
At the open discussion, the participants called for a united movement to realise various demands. They also opposed the project-based development by donor agencies and multinational companies.
At another session on 'Civil society activism, media and role of state for good governance', the speakers stressed the need for a concerted pressure on the government to ensure good governance.
They said a strong bond between media and civil society is vital to monitor different social and economic issues.
Speaking at the discussion, Prof Abdullah Abu Sayeed regretted that the civil society is sharply divided on political lines, which sometimes create problems in mobilising public opinion.
"At present, the state stands beside those who are plundering the nation's wealth. So, the civil society and the media will have to take a stand against those activities," he said.
Prof Sayeed also mentioned that the country would continue to suffer unless the civil society of the country is not united.
Motiur Rahman, editor of the daily Prothom Alo, said the media is trying to play its due role in ensuring good governance.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. "Despite some limitations, the media is trying to consolidate democracy through creating public opinion on different issues," he said.
He blamed the political parties for creating division among the people and various crises in the country.
Motiur Rahman also criticised the professional bodies for creating division among themselves on political line.
Chaired by Prof Wahiduddin Mahmud, the session was also addressed by Aroma Dutt of PRIP Trust and Farida Akhter of Ubinig.
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