Nagorik Shakti

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Nagorik Shakti is a political party in Bangladeshi. It was formed by 2006 Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus. Literally, Nagorik Shakti means Citizen's Power. In short, it will be named, Shakti. Dr. Yunus has recently announced that he will no longer continue with his political venture. He has cited the lack of eligible participants who are willing to come forward and join his party.

1 Political Situation of Bangladesh
2 The Motto and principles
3 The organization
4 Conflict of Interest with Grameen Bank
5 Reactions in the political arena
6 References
7 External links

[edit] Political Situation of Bangladesh

Nobel Laureate, Muhammad Yunus, the proponent of Nagorik Shakti

Bangladeshi politics has been marred by instability since the country's liberation from Pakistan in 1971. The country has been at the mercy of military juntas several times and it was ruled by a virtual dictatorship until the 1991 election. Though democracy was restored, the ensuing years have been characterised by rampant corruption, violence, power struggles and misuse of power at government level. This has been a consistent theme in Bangladeshi politics during the tenures of both the BNP and Al governments. Most commentators have aired their misgivings about the honesty, level of education and competence of the political leaders and their workers.

All political activity is currently banned as power has been handed over to a caretaker government which is implementing changes to ensure a free and fair election.

[edit] The Motto and principles

Bangladesh egiye cholo or March Ahead, Bangladesh is to be the theme title of the movement. Among its aims is the reinstatement of a secular constitution as well as gains in female empowerment and the fight against poverty and corruption. It will attempt to appoint capable leaders with a commitment to honest governance and accountability. Dr. Yunus intends to make Bangladesh an economical check-point in South Asia by opening up its ports and establishing global ties.

[edit] The organization

The organization of Nagorik Shakti will be based on the rural areas of Bangladesh, the villages. It is assumed that there will be 20 working people in each village instead of 5. It is hoped that the parties will avoid going down the path of the more unruly elements in Bangladeshi politics by avoiding formal showdown such as public meetings,preferring instead to convince the electorate by proclaiming facts. Each unit should have 50% female worker-supporter and must have at least 33%. Ideally, females and young people should be among the party's key players. Each team or group must be able to nominate others to higher positions and this practice should be carried on right up to MP level. Party expenses will be covered by its members.

[edit] Conflict of Interest with Grameen Bank

Yunus wants to avoid accusations of conflict of interest between his role in Shakti and with the Grameen Bank—the pioneering microcredit lender he founded in 1976. He has stated that he will reduce his involvement with the Bank, and that no Grameen Bank executives will be involved with the party.^[1]

[edit] Reactions in the political arena

Although the party is still in its infancy, it has already caused quite a stir in political circles. Though many political leaders initially remained tight-lipped, there has been some speculation about Dr.Yunus' motivations. Some have rehashed the old rhetoric about US and Indian involvement.

"Is he being planted in politics by mentors from outside the country," queried an anonymous political observer.

Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, chief of the Awami League has already expressed her displeasure over Yunus joining politics. "Newcomers in politics are dangerous elements and are to be viewed with suspicion, they often do more harm to the nation than good."

Mufti Aminee, one of the former four-party alliance leaders was even less charitable in his views on the Professor, saying "Dr. Yunus is an enemy of the country, nation and Islam."