TIB opposes ‘partisan relief committees’

Although all kinds of participation irrespective of political affiliations is necessary to mitigate the crisis, there are reasons to doubt whether the "relief committees" would play a positive role, said a statement issued by the graft watchdog.

BSS reports, Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader yesterday asked the grassroots AL leaders and activists to form relief distribution committees following the instructions of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and to join the relief distribution process in coordination with the local administration.

The TIB statement said its doubts stem from media reports on theft and grabbing of relief goods in different areas and the involvement of political leaders in such crimes.

TIB demanded the committees formed by the ruling party remain within the limits of "cooperating the local administration".

"The country and the countrymen are now going through a severe crisis. Marginalised people are in the worst condition," TIB Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman said.

"Government support should reach all people in need and political consideration or personal liking and disliking should not be a factor.

"The prime minister has given clear directives in this regard… and we want to [be assured that her stance against corruption] will be reflected in the relief distribution activities."

Iftekharuzzaman added, "We are getting news every day of theft and grabbing of relief goods in different parts of the country, and sadly most of those accused of being involved in the incidents have political identities."

In such a reality the new initiative to form relief committees will exacerbate the corruption, he added.

Iftekharuzzaman said it has to be ensured that the political relief committees do not turn out to be a platform to lobby for malpractice irregularities.

He urged making and publishing lists of relief recipients, the amount of relief material and distribution dates.