Md. Shahjahan Bashar, Dhaka Correspondent:
Former MP and political analyst Golam Mawla Rony narrated nine secret stories of the party’s three terms, surrounding the rise of the Awami League in various chapters of Bangladeshi politics, its huge victories, and its gradual accusation of autocratic character. Highlighting some images from these three terms – the ninth parliament formed through the elections on December 29, 2008, the uncontested tenth parliament, and the controversial eleventh parliament of the night vote – he said that this series of events ultimately staged the historical drama of the Bengalis’ fugitive nature on August 5, 2024.
Rony said that the Awami League was sure that they would win, but the huge majority that came in the 2008 elections was beyond Sheikh Hasina’s imagination. Surprised by the new parliament members, Sheikh Hasina herself asked how many MPs were elected in total and who got seats for the first time. During the internal discussions at that time, Sheikh Hasina made it clear that she would not follow anyone’s words anymore – Allah brought her to power, Allah will protect her. This statement indicates her sole authority in the future.
Various dramas took place around the Bangabhaban ceremony on the occasion of the formation of the cabinet. Roni described from his own experience how many senior MPs were engrossed in the dream of becoming ministers and were thrown into a state of expectation and disappointment when they went to the ceremony venue.
In particular, recalling the incident of senior MP Advocate Shahjahan Miah of Patuakhali Sadar constituency, Roni said that from the time he entered Bangabhaban until he returned after the ceremony, Shahjahan Miah tried his best to show the picture on his television. He used tricks to stand up early, sit down late, and even be in front of the camera several times. But in the end, his wife expressed her anger and said that his hard work was in vain as he was not seen on television.
Roni also described the disappointment and anger of those who dreamed of becoming ministers but did not get the title. Influential leaders like Suranjit Sengupta or Sheikh Selim were also disappointed when they did not become ministers. Even when a female officer requested Sheikh Selim to vacate his seat for a respected judge, he reprimanded him with great anger.
Golam Maula Roni said that he will present nine stories from the three periods of the Awami League one by one. Only two stories were told in today’s discussion. If there is interest from the readers and approval from the authorities, the remaining seven stories will be published under the same title in the future.