Published: 12 November 2024
In a country that has emerged from the shadows of authoritarianism, what direction will the youth of ‘New Bangladesh’ take? In order to guarantee democracy and good governance, what should be the subsequent course of action following the "second wave of independence"? The questions and their thought-provoking responses were a beacon of hope while celebrating Bondhushava's 26th anniversary in Dhaka. This event, a collaboration between Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) and Bondhushava, underscored the pivotal role that the younger generation plays in shaping the nation’s future, rooted in transparency, integrity, and corruption-free.
As participants from across the nation poured into the ‘Liberation War Museum’ in the capital, excitement was palpable. The diverse crowd, united by a common goal, resonated with TIB’s anti-corruption message, eager to learn how they could contribute to a brighter future for their country. Bondhushava, an initiative of Bangladesh’s leading daily newspaper, Prothom Alo, is celebrated for promoting equity, democratic values, and self-development through volunteerism, making it the perfect platform for TIB to galvanize the youth’s commitment to the cause.
The event sparked off with the National Anthem, setting a tone of unity and purpose. TIB Executive Director Dr. Iftekharuzzaman took to the stage, leading the attendees in a hallmark Anti-Corruption Oath. “We must strive for a future free from corruption,” he implored, igniting a shared determination among the youth to embrace the ideals of transparency and integrity. Moreover, Dr. Iftekharuzzaman praised the youth for their significant contributions to the recent political changes, emphasizing that while the authoritarian regime has fallen, the fight against discrimination and corruption must continue. “We are at a crossroads; replacing one form of oppression with another is a real risk. The movement for anti-discrimination and anti-corruption consciousness must remain central to our lives and policies,” he urged the young leaders to remain vigilant.
The theme of the event—“In the new light of youth, Bangladesh has risen”— echoed throughout the hall as participants immersed with the call to action. Renowned film-maker Ashfaque Nipun, one of the event’s prominent speakers, shared personal experiences that illuminated the sneaky nature of corruption in society. “Corruption is embedded in our society in ways that we often fail to identify. In New Bangladesh, we must ensure that our own thinking is free from corruption,” he emphasized, highlighting the individual responsibility each person bears in combating the issue.
Eminent author Anisul Hoque echoed Nipun’s sentiments, noting that the battle against corruption has only just begun. “If we can eliminate corruption at the highest levels of organizations, we can make significant progress toward a society that is free of discrimination,” he stated, expressing hope for a future built on good governance.
An interactive session on State Reform and Corruption further engaged the audience, with Mohammad Tauhidul Islam, TIB’s Director of Outreach and Communication, addressing the crucial role of the youth in dismantling corruption within state structures. “If the youth say no to corruption, it will be much easier to establish a Bangladesh free of corruption,” he asserted. Yet, he acknowledged the complexities of uprooting deeply imbedded attitudes, particularly when corruption has been legitimized by powerful figures.
The event, a vibrant confluence of voices and ideas, also saw participation from scholars, public figures, and coordinators of the anti-discrimination movement, including Ariful Islam Adeeb and Taposhi Dey Prapti. Together, they fostered a spirit of unity and purpose, embodying the potential of a generation ready to reclaim their country’s narrative.
As the echoes of their commitment filled the air, it became clear that these young leaders are not merely dreamers; they are the architects of a corruption-free ‘New Bangladesh’. With their passion and determination, they are self-assured to lead the way toward a future grounded in integrity, transparency, and parity. In their hands lies the promise of a nation reborn, a testament to the power of youth in shaping a brighter tomorrow.
