Month: May 2023

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Press freedom in Bangladesh is example for developing countries: Dr Hasan

Information and Broadcasting Minister and Awami League (AL) Joint General Secretary Dr Hasan Mahmud today said the freedom of press and the expansion of media in Bangladesh are examples for other developing countries.

“We believe in free media, we believe in media freedom. The mass media hasn’t expanded in many neighboring countries and doesn’t enjoy such unfettered freedom,” he said at a discussion in the Jatiya Press Club (JPC) here as the chief guest.

The JPC organized the discussion titled ‘Role of Mass Media in Protecting Human Rights and Expanding Democracy’, marking the World Press Freedom Day with its President Farida Yasmin in the chair.

Dainik Jugantor Editor Saiful Alam, Dainik Samakal Editor Mozammel Hossain, senior journalist Monjurul Ahsan Bulbul and JPC Joint Secretary Md Ayub Bhuiyan also spoke at the event.

Dr Hasan said if there is the responsibility with freedom, mass media can operate properly. But if the freedom is exercised avoiding responsibility, then in many cases the society as well as the state is harmed, he added.

The mass media is the fourth pillar of the state and democracy and the mass media are complement to each other, he said, adding: “Without freedom and transparency of media, democracy can never be operative and democratic social system cannot survive. Therefore, freedom of media and freedom of expression are definitely necessary to consolidate the democracy”.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha

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Media freedom helps greater economic growth: Diplomats

Diplomats of different western countries stationed here at a discussion today called for protecting media freedom for enjoying strong democracy and ensuring greater economic growth.

"Protecting media freedom benefits societies in many ways. Studies have shown that countries with more press freedom have greater economic growth," said Charge d'affaires (CDA) at the US Embassy in Dhaka Helen LaFave.

The US Embassy in Dhaka hosted the discussion titled "Shaping a future of rights: Freedom of expression as a driver for all other human rights" held at the American Center auditorium to commemorate World Press Freedom Day 2023.

Representatives of member countries of the Media Freedom Coalition (MFC) in Bangladesh attended the event.

LaFave said a free press promotes transparency, which increases accountability as it helps reduce corruption, and fosters a business-friendly environment.

"As we look to the future, we must recognize the importance of preserving and protecting the right to freedom of expression and the press in the face of threats such as disinformation and censorship," she said, adding that it is particularly critical in elections periods.

She said all including the government, owners of media organizations, civil society leaders, political parties, and international organizations have a responsibility to recognize and protect the value of press freedom and to protect it.

A free press is also essential for promoting human rights and social justice while journalists play a critical role in exposing human rights abuses and promoting accountability, she added.

LaFave said the journalists can also promote gender equality by ensuring that women's voices are heard and their experiences represented.

"Journalism is not a crime. I repeat journalism is not a crime.

Journalists should not be punished or face criminal charges just for doing their job," she said.

Canadian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Dr Lily Nicholls said the number of countries regarded as safe where journalists can work in complete security, continues to decline.

Quoting the World Press Freedom Index prepared by Reporters without Borders (RSF), she said journalism is blocked or impeded in 73 percent of the 180 countries they have studied.

Nicholls said they must acknowledge the important role of women journalists and other marginalized groups in the exercise, promotion and protection of press freedom, and the specific risks they face as they carry out their work.

Australian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Jeremy Bruer, Dutch Ambassador to Bangladesh Anne van Leeuwen, UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh Gwyn Lewis, representatives of the Media Freedom Coalition and senior journalists were present.

The programme began with a video screening that contained comments from diplomats.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha

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SC publishes full text of verdict in Prof Taher murder case

The Appellate Division of the Supreme Court today published the full text of verdict rejecting the review petitions of the two death row convicts in the Rajshahi University Professor S Taher Ahmed murder case.

Now the two convicts can seek clemency from the President as with the rejection of review petitions, there is no legal bar to execute the verdict.

The eight-member bench of the Appellate Division, led by Chief justice Hasan Foez Siddique, published the 21-page verdict today.

The two death row convicts are - Mia Mohammad Mohiuddin, associate professor of Rajshahi University' geology and mining department, and Md Jahangir Alam, caretaker of Professor S Taher' residence.

Now the text will be sent to the Rajshahi court, which will issue the death warrant of the two death row convicts.

On March 2, the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court rejected review petitions of the two death row convicts in Professor Taher murder case.

On April 5, 2022, the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court sentenced two people to death and two others to life imprisonment in the case.

The court upheld life term sentence to Nazmul Alam and Abdus Salam, relatives of caretaker Jahangir Alam.

Prof Taher's body was recovered from a drain near his residence, two days after he went missing on February 1 in 2006.

On February 3, a murder case was filed with Motihar police station in Rajshahi, following a complaint lodged by his son Sanzid.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha

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Tender opening in single day through e-GP hits record

The number of tenders opened in a single day in

the electronic government procurement (e-GP) system registered a new record

of 2230 today.

Earlier, the number was 1508 in a single day, said a press release here.

The e-GP system introduced by the Central Procurement Technical Unit of

Implementation Monitoring and Evaluation Division (IMED), Ministry of

Planning, in 2011 as part of reforms and government's efforts to digitize all

public service delivery.

The procuring entities and tenderers across the country have embraced the

electronic system gladly as it has removed all physical and operational

hassles.

There has been an exponential growth in the numbers of invitation, submission

and opening of tenders and contracts through e-GP since 2012.

Up to May 3, 2023, a total of 1,05,569 tenderers and 11,174 procuring entity

offices registered with the e-GP system. So far, a total of 6,86,703 tenders

worth Taka 7,07,104 core were invited in the e-GP system.

Bangladesh has been in a leading position in digitizing entire cycle of

procurement starting from planning to contract implementation management.

Electronic contract management (e-CMS) system and electronic audit (e-Audit)

modules and Tenderers' Database have recently been added to e-GP.

The CPTU has also formulated Sustainable Public Procurement (SPP) Policy

which is now under process of finalization.

It has been implementing a project titled, "Digitizing Implementation

Monitoring and Public Procurement (DIMAPP)" with support from the World Bank.

The release said that the e-GP is saving US$600 million annually. Travel

distance has reduced by about 497km. About 1,053 million pages of paper are

saved. About 1 lakh 53 thousand tonnes of carbon dioxide emission has

decreased. The procurement lead time has also come down to 57 days from 100

days. The digital system is saving both time and money.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha

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Khajura awaits completion of 1,800-meter road project for over five years

A four-lane road construction project in Khajura of Banke is yet to be completed despite the extension of deadline thrice.

The 1,800-meter road construction project based in Khajura Bazar had begun five years ago. As per the initial deadline, the project developer Gajurmukhi Construction Company, Ilam had to complete it in three years or by March-April, 2021. Progress so far fails to meet the expectation, despite the extension of deadline three times, according to Road Division Office, Nepalgunj.

Division Chief engineer Neeraj Shakya said in initial phase of the project implementation, issues in site clearance and COVID-19 pandemic causes obstructions in achieving the results, but lately, the negligence on the part of construction company has been noticed. During the deadline extension last time, the company was imposed a fine on a daily basis for the delay, but the project continues to be marred by sluggishness. "Therefore, the Office is now proceeding towards repealing the contract," Shakya said.

Advance amount deposited in the company's bank account last time has been already reclaimed.

The company had been awarded the contract for completing two projects one in Khajura Bazar and another of 2,200 meters in Gulariya of Bardiya at the cost of Rs 214.9 million. Earlier, Khajura rural municipality chair Dambar BK advised the Division Office to end the contract for the road construction. ---

Source: National News Agency

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Liton joins team as Tigers start practice at Chelmsford

Wicket-keeper batter Liton Das reached Chelmsford, England today to join Bangladesh team which is here to play a three-match ODI series against Ireland.

Liton who had to leave the IPL prematurely due to family emergency left the country at the early hour (1.40AM) on Wednesday. In his first stint in IPL, Lion just played only one match for Kolkata Knight Riders and scored 4 runs.

Another player Mustafizur Rahman, who is the part of Delhi Capitals in IPL is expected to reach country today. He is scheduled to board UK flight tomorrow (Thursday).

Ace all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan who is now in the USA with his family will also join the side very soon, team management sources said.

The team management however expected all of the players to join the team ahead of Bangladesh's practice game against Ireland A, slated to be held on Friday.

The three ODIs against Ireland are scheduled on May 9, 12 and 14. All of the matches will be held in Essex Country Club's home ground Chelmsford.

Meanwhile, after a rest day, Bangladesh started their practice session for the series today.

The series is the part of ICC ODI Super League and is crucial particularly for Ireland as they need to win all of the three matches to directly qualify for the ODI World Cup in India in next October-November.

Ireland are playing the series in England as the weather back in their country will remain inclement in this month.

Bangladesh however had already qualified to the World Cup but they want to keep the winning momentum going on after beating Ireland at home in March by 2-0. Bangladesh also won a one-off Test and three-match T20 series against Ireland at home.

Squad: Tamim Iqbal (captain), Liton Das, Rony Talukdar, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Towhid Hridoy, Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Yasir Ali, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Ebadot Hossain, Shoriful Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, Hasan Mahmud, Mrittunjoy Chowdhury.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha

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Bangladesh aims to increase high-value garment exports to Canada

High Commissioner of Canada in Bangladesh Dr. Lilly Nicholls paid a courtesy call on BGMEA President Faruque Hassan at the BGMEA Complex in Uttara today.

BGMEA Vice President Shahidullah Azim, Director Barrister Vidiya Amrit Khan, Political Counsellor Bradley Coates and Trade Commissioner at the Canadian High Commission Md. Kamal Uddin were also present on the occasion.

During the meeting, their discussion focused on various issues of mutual interest aimed at enhancing trade between Bangladesh and Canada, said a press release.

They discussed how Bangladesh could increase its share of RMG exports to the Canadian market, especially high-value garments and attract investment in different potential sectors like value-added and non-cotton textiles along with others.

BGMEA President Faruque Hassan gave an overview of the readymade garment industry including its current status, opportunities and ongoing efforts to realize its potential.

He briefed the High Commissioner about the vast progress made by Bangladesh's RMG industry in terms of workplace safety, environmental sustainability and workers' rights and welfare, adding that the industry is committed to continue the achievements.

He laid emphasis on the importance of ethical buying practices and fair price to build a more resilient supply chain where the issue of workers' rights and welfare is considered with high importance.

The BGMEA President appraised the Canadian envoy of the industry's vision and preparedness to meet the future challenges and enhance the competitiveness and reputation of Bangladesh as a safe and sustainable apparel sourcing hub in the world.

In the meeting, he also highlighted the future priorities of Bangladesh's RMG industry including increased emphasis on shifting to value-added garments, especially those made from non-cotton and technical textiles, technological up gradation, skills and efficiency enhancement in order to continue the sector's growth momentum.

BGMEA has established a Center of Innovation, Efficiency and Occupational Health and Safety (CIEOSH) to support the RMG industry of Bangladesh with knowledge, skills and technological know-how in becoming more advanced and competitive in the global market.

He, through the High Commissioner, sought cooperation of Canada in developing knowledge and skills of the students of BGMEA University of Fashion and Technology (BUFT) in textile, apparel, fashion, design and business through collaboration with leading Canadian fashion institutes and universities.

Faruque Hassan expressed high optimism about more cooperation between Bangladesh and Canada to reap more mutual benefits.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha

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Bangladesh signs $2.25B loan deal with World Bank

The World Bank has agreed to provide a loan of $2.25 billion to Bangladesh for its five development and climate-resilient projects.

A loan deal was signed in Washington, D.C. during an event marking the 50 years of partnership between the South Asian nation and the World Bank on Monday.

Speaking at the event, Bangladeshi Premier Sheikh Hasina said: “We are here not to pray. We want our right to develop a partnership with the World Bank. We take loans and we pay the money with interest.”

World Bank President David Malpass was also present at the event.

State-run Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha news agency reported that the five projects for which the loan will be provided included Resilient Infrastructure Building Project (RIVER), Bangladesh Environmental Sustainability and Transformation (BEST), Accelerating Transport and Trade Connectivity in Eastern South Asia (ACCESS)-Bangladesh Phase-1, First Bangladesh Green and Climate Resilient Development (GCR D), and Sustainable Microenterprise and Resilient Transformation (SMART).

Speaking to the media, Salman Fazlur Rahman, the adviser to Bangladesh’s prime minister on private industry and investment, said it is the “single-largest loan deal” between his country and the World Bank.

Source: TRTworld.com

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Vanessa Hudson: Qantas appoints first female CEO as Alan Joyce steps down

Australia's flagship airline Qantas has announced its Chief Financial Officer Vanessa Hudson will replace current CEO Alan Joyce.

She will become Qantas' first female boss when she takes over in November.

The airline has suffered turbulence in recent times, with record losses during Covid-19 and a series of controversies damaging the brand.

Ms Hudson, who joined Qantas in 1994, identified restoring the airline's reputation as a priority.

In a statement, she said her historic appointment was "an absolute honour".

"I have two young daughters... and I have always been a mother who has wanted to lead by example," she told reporters.

Ms Hudson praised the airline as an "exceptional company", but also promised to work "very hard" to restore it to its former glory.

Last year, Qantas suffered severe criticism over cancelled flights, lost luggage and delays, but bounced back this year with half-year profits of A$1.4bn (£742.6m, $928.7m)

"We are very up front in recognising that the customer experience was not where we wanted it to be [and] we have invested A$200 million dollars to get the performance back where we were pre-Covid," Ms Hudson said.

She said she would also seek to build a "constructive relationship" with aviation unions in a spirit of "mutual trust", after strained relations during Mr Joyce's tenure.

In 2021, Australia's federal court ruled that Qantas had illegally outsourced almost 1,700 ground staff jobs during the pandemic. The airline then began a high court appeal to avoid paying compensation over the move.

Chairman Richard Goyder paid tribute outgoing CEO Mr Joyce, saying he had done a "superb job" in his 15 years at the top despite the challenges he faced, including the 2008 financial crisis, the pandemic and record oil prices.

Mr Joyce often received personal criticism during his tenure, with his A$19m north Sydney mansion pelted with eggs and toilet paper at the height of the recent airport chaos.

He was also famously attacked - struck in the face with a lemon meringue pie - at a 2017 business breakfast in Perth, over his public support of same-sex marriage during a national debate on legalising it.

Mr Joyce described stepping down as a "bittersweet moment", having steered the airline through tough times.

"There's still a lot I want to deliver in the next six months, and at the top of that list is ensuring a smooth handover to Vanessa, who I'm sure will excel in the role," he said.

Source: BBC

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RSS is the mouthpiece of the state and the people – Acharya

Govinda Acharya, the press adviser to Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', has said that the government was working for the greater good of the working journalists based on an action plan and that everyone's support was necessary towards that end.

At the Annual General Meeting of Press Center Nepal's National News Agency (RSS) Chapter on Tuesday, he said that the government was formulating laws in the interests of the media workers through the participation of relevant actors. Due to lack of legislation related to the media sector since a long time the expected progress has not been achieved.

He described the National News Agency as the mouthpiece of the state and the people. "In addition to conveying the information of the state to the people, it should raise the issue of public concern," he added.

Also former president of the Federation of Nepalese Journalists, Acharya said that the government was in the process of formulating a law to strengthen the full freedom of the press.

On the occasion, Executive Chairperson of RSS, Dharmendra Jha, shared that the news product of the RSS were being changed according to the need of the hour.

"Access to information is inevitable for developing ideas. Hence, the media should be common and independent", Jha said, "RSS thus belongs to all of us. Hence, the development of all of us is possible only in the development of RSS."

General Manager of RSS Siddharaj Rai said the RSS management has been working to address problems facing the agency through dialogue and consultation.

President of Press Centre Nepal RSS Chapter Ratna Krishna Shrestha shared about the establishment of Press Center Nepal and its activities to date.

Likewise, President of Press Center Nepal Pratisthan Committee, Birendra Oli, President of Federation of Nepali Journalists RSS Chapter Pabitra Guragain, President of RSS Employees Union, Kalika Khadka, Vice President of Nepal Press Union RSS Chapter, Purna Prasad Mishra and other speakers shed light on ways their respective organisation were working to ensure the rights of journalists.

Source: National News Agency Nepal

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PM Dahal for self-regulation to make media sector accountable

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' has called for development of a self-regulation system to make the media sector dignified, responsible and accountable.

Extending greetings on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day here today, he mentioned the Constitution of Nepal secures full press freedom and the government has emphasized on restructuring, policy and legal reforms for the protection, promotion and development of the media sector to thereby realize the constitutional provision. "Press freedom is not concerning the press only but an integral issue of the overall society and a democratic system. The government is well aware of the importance of a free press for the strengthening of democracy."

In the message, Prime Minister Dahal has said restructuring of the Nepali media sector in accordance with fundamentals of the Constitution including the purpose of the federal democratic republic is the major need of the hour.

In this regard, initiatives such as establishment the Mass Media Authority for the regulation of the media, the restructuring of the Press Council, the recognition of the media as a communications service industry, proportional distribution of public advertisements, accident and health insurance for journalists, the provision of living allowances for senior journalists and journalists with disabilities and the establishment of an integrated mass media development fund are being undertaken.

Prime Minister Dahal also expressed the commitment to formulate necessary laws and structures to ensure freedom of press and expression.

Source: National News Agency Nepal

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Govt to introduce ordinance to address issues of loan sharking victims

The government is all set to ensure legal provisions through an ordinance to address and resolve the issues faced by the loan sharking victims.

A meeting of the Council of Ministers held on Tuesday decided to amend the laws by bringing an ordinance to troubleshoot the problems of the loan sharking victims.

Minister for Communications and Information Technology Rekha Sharma said, "A decision has been made to recommend an ordinance to the President to ensure legal provisions to resolve the issues in regard to the victims of the usury."

The ordinance will be sent to the President by today itself, Minister Sharma added.

Source: National News Agency Nepal