During the last Awami League government, there was no human rights in the country. The country had a family system like monarchy. Writer, poet and journalist Ehsan Mahmud’s book ‘Freedom Democracy Human Rights: Bangladesh 2009-2023 under Awami League’s rule’ was said by the speaker. They termed the book as a document of a specific time.
On Saturday (November) ‘Bangiya Sahitya Sabha’ and publishing house ‘Adarsh’ organized this lesson review program at poet Shamsur Rahman seminar room of Bangla Academy.
In the discussion, Samakal’s advisory editor Abu Saeed Khan said, ‘some of the poets and writers usually take part in street protests. Ehsan Mahmood is an exception. He is active in three disciplines – fiction, poetry and journalism. Because of this, his journalistic language is fluent and dynamic.
About the student uprising, he said, ‘Students, political parties and civil society who were at the forefront of the movement must come to a compromise. It is important to put an end to the debate that has started about elections or reforms first.’
He commented that some reforms are definitely needed for fair elections.
Environment, Forest and Climate Advisor Syeda Rizwana Hasan joined online and said, ‘Some of the writings in Ehsan Mahmood’s book were read at the time when it was printed. Everyone did not write conventionally,
He said, ‘When talking about freedom, democracy and human rights during the fascist regime, I think that freedom had its own definition at that time. If anyone said or thought anything outside of him, there would be no freedom. As a result, I could not hold or practice freedom. Freedom was only for one party. So far, the monarchy was a family system. I will be in power, I will not let anyone else in – there is no human rights in such a fascist mentality. It was also said then who will go on the talk show on television.’
Prothom Alo’s joint editor Sohrab Hasan said, “In the preface of Ehsan Mahmud’s book, journalist friend Nurul Kabir expressed optimism and said, I hope Ehsan Mahmud will continue to ask the same questions, the same questions and criticize those who will come to power in the future. We also hope that Ehsan Mahmud will keep his voice.”
Netra News Editor-in-Chief Tasnim Khalil said, ‘When I left the country in 2007, there was a caretaker government. When I came to the country after 17 years, an interim government was running the country. Ehsan Mahmood’s book helped me to understand the situation in a situation where it is not clear what is happening in the country from outside.’
He said, ‘I want to read 50 books this year, this is the 32nd. When I go somewhere, I see many books about the politics and political parties of that country in the bookstore. These are documents of time. But in our country I have not seen political books published like that. Mohiuddin Ahmed is doing something. Ehsan’s book is a document of a certain period.’
At the event Ehsan Mahmood said about the book, ‘When I go to the powerful, I find his weak point and criticize him. No matter how dear that person is to me.’
Professor of Mass Communication and Journalism Department of Dhaka University. Geeti Ara Nasreen and writer Parsa Sanjana Sajid spoke on the occasion.
Journalist Salah Uddin Shubhra and Mahabub Rahman of Adarsh delivered the welcome speech on behalf of Bengali Sahitya Sabha. Supreme Court lawyer Nilufar Yasmin moderated the program.
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Interview Transcript: Time.news Editor Interviews Ehsan Mahmud, Author of “Freedom Democracy Human Rights: Bangladesh 2009-2023 Under Awami League’s Rule.”
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, Ehsan. Thank you for joining us today. Your book has stirred quite a conversation about the state of democracy and human rights in Bangladesh under the Awami League’s rule. What inspired you to write “Freedom Democracy Human Rights”?
Ehsan Mahmud: Good afternoon, and thank you for having me. The inspiration stemmed from a need to document a specific and turbulent period in our history. As a writer and journalist, I felt it was necessary to reflect on the experiences of everyday citizens during a time when fundamental rights were often sidelined. My aim was to create a narrative that illustrates the complexities of our political landscape.
Time.news Editor: Your book has been described as a critical document of its time. In what ways do you think the situation in Bangladesh has been reflective of broader global trends regarding human rights and democracy?
Ehsan Mahmud: That’s an interesting question. Many countries across the globe are grappling with similar issues—erosion of democratic practices and restrictions on freedom of speech. In Bangladesh, while the narrative suggests a return to authoritarianism, it parallels what we see in various regions where governments suppress dissent. My book aims to highlight how, during the Awami League’s tenure, the essence of democracy was diluted, and human rights were often merely a concept used for political leverage, instead of a lived reality.
Time.news Editor: During a recent discussion about your book, some speakers mentioned the need for reforms leading to fair elections. Can you elaborate on what specific reforms you believe are essential for the election process in Bangladesh?
Ehsan Mahmud: Absolutely. There are several key reforms required. Firstly, an independent election commission is crucial; one that operates free from political influences. Secondly, we need to ensure that all political parties have equal access to the media and to campaign resources. It’s vital to create an environment where citizens can express their opinions and participate freely without fear of retribution. Lastly, introducing mechanisms for accountability for any electoral misconduct is essential to restore faith in the electoral process.
Time.news Editor: You also touched upon the role of students and civil society in the recent uprisings. How do you view their relationship with political parties in striving for democratic change?
Ehsan Mahmud: The student movement has historically been at the forefront of change in Bangladesh. However, for meaningful progress, a compromise among students, political parties, and civil society is essential. They must unite to focus on their common goal—lasting democratic reform. It’s only through collaboration that they can present a formidable challenge to authoritarian structures.
Time.news Editor: Environment and human rights often intersect. Notably, Syeda Rizwana Hasan referred to your book and emphasized the unique context of freedom during fascist regimes. How do you see the connection between environmental activism and human rights in Bangladesh?
Ehsan Mahmud: There is indeed a vital connection. Environmental rights are human rights. If people cannot enjoy clean air, water, and a stable climate, how can they exercise their other fundamental rights? In Bangladesh, activists often face significant risks when they challenge government decisions that threaten our environment. My intention in the book is to draw attention to these intersections and advocate for a comprehensive understanding of freedom that encompasses both environmental and human rights.
Time.news Editor: looking ahead, what are you most hopeful for in the future of democracy in Bangladesh?
Ehsan Mahmud: I remain cautiously optimistic. There is a growing awareness among the populace about their rights and the importance of democratic engagement. As more citizens particularly the youth engage in political processes, I believe we can work towards a more inclusive and accountable government. My hope is that through persistent dialogue and activism, we can cultivate an environment where human rights are not just part of our constitutional rights but are respected and upheld in practice.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for your insights, Ehsan. Your work is undoubtedly a crucial step towards fostering a more informed and engaged society in Bangladesh. We appreciate you taking the time to chat with us today.
Ehsan Mahmud: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure discussing these important issues.