TIB news archive 2

News bulletins January 2001 to April 2002:

News bulletins from January 2003

TI-B Newsletter, June 2000 (in English, PDF format, 2.34 MB)

1997-8 Newsletters archive

30 December 2002

Release of the Report on "Corruption in South Asia"
A new household survey ( Corruption in South Asia) released by Transparency International on 17 December 2002 reports high levels of corruption in public institutions in South Asia. The finding of the Household Corruption Survey in Bangladesh was published through a press release on the same day. The media extensively covered the findings of the report (18th December, 2002). BBC Bengali Service interviewed TIB Research Officer about the findings of the report. Besides a number of editorials were made.

Wall Magazine
Mymensingh CCC volunteers published a wall magazine on the victory day. Independence of Bangladesh, corruption and citizens' role in curbing corruption were chosen as topics of the magazine.

People's Theatre
People's theatre group of Nalitabari performed their production 'Rukhe Dandao' in three places of Chittagong. More than three thousand audiences enjoyed the show. Muktagacha theatre group staged their show in three locations of Muktagacha and two spots of Mymensingh. More than twelve hundred and fourteen hundred audiences enjoyed the show in Muktagacha and Mymensingh, respectively.

Citizens Meeting
Mymensingh CCC organized a citizens meeting on 17th December 2002 at ward no. 7 of Mymensingh Sadar. About 70 participants from a cross section of population attended the meeting. The main issues of the citizens' meeting were the cost of corruption, CCC initiatives, the role and responsibilities of Union Parishad. The discussion was followed by a question-answer session on the role of Union Parishad. CCC members Advocate Emdadul Haque Millat, Bahar Mazumder, Advocate Khalequzzamana and four active leaders of the locale took part in the discussion.

Another citizens meeting was organized by Mymensingh CCC on 22nd December 2002 at ward no. 2. About 80 participants attended the meeting. TIB Field Assistant Karuna Kishore Chakraborty made a presentation on cost of corruption. Mizanur Rahman Mintu, the Commissioner of ward no. 2 read the role and responsibilities of Municipality according to the manual. Three local leaders also took part in the discussion which was also followed by a question-answer session. The discussants urged the audiences to initiate this movement against corruption from their families and then extend this to a broader arena.

Nalitabari CCC organized a citizens meeting on 22nd December 2002 at Jainuddinpara Govt. Primary School at Nalitabari Union. About 50 participants including a chairman candidate of the forthcoming Union Parishad election were present at the meeting. CCC convener M. A. Hakam Hira and members Jogen Roy were present in the meeting. Local citizens welcomed the initiative of citizens meeting. The participants made a suggestion to extend CCCs movement against corruption at the village level.

Madhupur CCC arranged a citizens meeting at ward no 4 of Madhupur Municipality on 25th December, 2002. The CCC discussed the cost and causes of corruption. They also discussed about the role and responsibilities of union parishad. Some recommendation in relation to improving the service of union parishad was presented on the occasion. CCC convener Professor Golam Samdani, and Secretary Mr. Arifur Rahman spoke on behalf of CCC. The ward commissioner called for a collective effort in curbing corruption. Mr. Minhazuddin, Mr. Mir Majibor Rahman, Mr. Hayat Ali, Mr. Mir Matiar Rahman, Mr. Omad Ali, Kamaluddin Tola also spoke on the occasion.

Advocacy Meeting on the Report Card on Health
Madhupur CCC met the upazilla health authority on 25th December, 2002. Services rendered by Madhupur Health Complex were prime agenda for discussion. The health authority talked about their problems and limitations. In this regard, Madhupur CCC put forward some suggestions to improve the service of the health complex. The CCC convener Professor Golam Samdani, Dr. Mir Forhadul Alam (Moni) and Mr. Tapan Kumar Goon on behalf of CCC spoke on the occasion. Upazilla Health and Family Planning Officer Mr. Siddeshar Shaha also spoke on the occasion. He urged for CCCs support in improving health services of the health complex.

Kishoreganj CCC organized a meeting with the Kishoreganj health authority in Kishoreganj General Hospital. Seven recommendations were placed by Kishoreganj CCC to improve the health service of Kishoreganj general hospital. The Kishoreganj Civil Surgeon Dr. A.B.M Azizul Islam informed about their inclination towards implementing those recommendations. The meeting was also addressed by Principal Jalal Ahmad, Advocate Dolon, Mr. Nasiruddin Faruki, Advocate Amirul Islam, Dr. Abu Taher, Dr. Razia Sultana, Dr. Saeb Ali, CCC Convener Mr. Khurshed Uddin Bhuiyan and TIB Program Officer Mr. Ekram Hossain.

Meeting on Primary Education in Kishoreganj
Kishoreganj CCC organized a meeting entitled 'An Overview of Compulsory Primary Education in Kishoreganj Sadar' at Kishoreganj Public Library Auditorium. About 50 participants along with the Assistant Thana Education Officer (ATEO) were present at the meeting. CCC Convener Mr. Khurshed Uddin Bhuiyan, and CCC members S. M. Abdul Mannan, Advocate Shamsunnahar Kajal, Ms. Najmoon Nahar Molly also attended the meeting. The discussants exchanged their opinion in terms of the findings of the report card on 'Corruption in Primary Education in Kishoreganj Sadar'. The ATEO welcomed this initiative.

Observing Cleaning Day
Nalitabari CCC organized a cleaning campaign at Ward No. 7 of Nalitabari Upazilla on 20th December 2002. About 50 persons participated in the campaign. Mr. Najmul Hasan Khan, UNO of Nalitabari Upazilla was present as the Chief Guest in the occasion. The campaign was followed by a spot meeting presided over by Mr. Sajal Chandra Saha, Commissioner, ward no. 7 of Nalitabari Upazilla. The UNO, in his speech conveyed his appreciation . He urged for citizens participation in a movement as such for keeping their native town neat and clean. A procession was brought out at the end of the meeting. The UNO spontaneously went to every shop and requested the owners not to through their garbage into the roads or in the drains. He also visited some restaurants and requested the workers to cover the food and asked them not to serve stale food. Members from General Trade Union, Trade and Industry Association, Youth Muslim Association, Agradut Association, Nabarupi, Clean labours and clean officer of Nalitabari Municipality, four Commissioners of other Wards attended the movement.

Mymensingh CCC observed a cleaning day at the ward no. 7 of the Municipality area on 24th December, 2002. A rally was organized on that day. The Mymensingh CCC cleaned a number of roads and drainages of that area with the help of Municipality and Rover Scout Group of Anandha Mohan College. The rally was attended by CCC Convener Professor Shamsul Islam, CCC members Advocate Anisur Rahman Khan, Advocate A. H. M. Khalequzzaman and Mr. Sharifuzzaman Parag. The ward commissioner Mr. Askar Ali, the Executive Officer of the Municipality Mr. Amjad Hossain appreciated CCCs initiative. Two professors of the Anandha Mohan College also attended the rally. The CCC also published a leaflet on that day.

Meeting with Jamalpur Railway Authority
Jamalpur CCC met with the railway authority of Jamalpur on 21st December, 2002. They proposed 18 recommendations to improve the services of the railway authority. The CCC members also discussed the problems of the railway authority. The station master Joynul Abedin, Sub-Assistant Engineer Mr. Shafiqul Islam, S.I Abdul Haque Bhuiyan and Mr. Noor Nabi were also present at the meeting.

Human Rights Day
Mr.Justice Muhammad Habibur Rahman has described corruption in the socioeconomic context as a ghost with one thousand hands. The constitutional system of checking corruption in the country has almost collapsed, said the former chief of the caretaker government. Even the election system to establish the right to participate in people's activities is mired in corruption, he said in his address to a citizens' rally on human rights and corruption at the Taraganj Pilot High School in Nalitabari. Nalitabari CCC organized the rally on 25th December, 2002. The rally was also attended by former Vice-Chancellor of Rajshahi University and Chairman, Board of Trustees, TIB Professor Khan Sarwar Murshid, educationist Nurjahan Murshid, Probhat Chandra Lal, Moulana Abul Mobarak and journalist Zakir Hossain, among others.

Citizens Meeting in Jamalpur
Jamalpur CCC organized a meeting in Jamalpur on 19th December, 2002 at the Jamalpur Public Library. Dr. Kamal Hossain, Chairman, TI Advisory Council was present as the chief guest and Professor Khan Sarwar Murshid, Chairman, Board of Trustees, TIB was present as the special guest on the occasion. Adv. Sorwar Jahan presented the key-note paper entitled "Good Governance, Human Rights and Corruption" and CCC Convener Adv. Mohammad Nazrul Islam (Dulu) presided over the meeting. Dr. Kamal Hossain in his speech said that misuse of law is one type of corruption.

Convention of Committees of Concerned Citizens
TIB organized a CCCs convention on 27th December, 2002 at TARC, BRAC in Mymensingh. The main objective of the convention was to find out the problems and limitations of NIP. The convention was facilitated by TIB Executive Director Manzoor Hasan, and Assistant Program Officer Samapika Halder. More than 40 members of CCCs attended the meeting. All CCC Convenors attended the convention.

Workshop on National Integrity Program
TIB organized a two-day workshop on the National Integrity Program on 30-31 December, 2002 in Rangamati. The main objective of the workshop was to find out the key achievements, failures and lessons learnt from NIP. Most of the staff attended the workshop. The workshop was facilitated by NRT Executive Director Dr. Sanual Mostafa, TIB Executive Director Manzoor Hasan and Research Officer Md. Sydur Rahman Molla.

15 December 2002

HUMAN RIGHTS DAY

Mymensingh CCC observed the "Human Rights Day" on 12th December, 2002 in Mymensingh. A discussion meeting was arranged to mark the day. Advocate Emdadul Hoque Millat presented a key note paper entitled 'Corruption and Human Rights'. The discussion was presided over by CCC convener Professor Shamsul Islam. Advocate Rokeya Begum and Professor Zatin Sarker also spoke on the occasion. Around 40 people of different professional background attended the meeting. Professor Zatin Sarker in his speech said that, not the rule of law but of the rule of justice can ensure the human rights of a society. He also put emphasis on political commitment.

Muktagacha CCC also observed the "Human Rights Day" on 10th and 11th December, 2002 in Muktagacha. Wall magazines were published and a procession was arranged in observance of the day. Around 60 participants joined the procession. Muktagacha CCC convener, Muktagacha Municipality Chairman and other CCC members took part in the procession. They also arranged a discussion meeting on 11th December, 2002. Professor Matindra Sarker presented a key note paper entitled the "Human Rights and Corruption". In his address he stated that corruption and lack of wisdom undermine human rights. Discussants emphasized on the effective implementation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the UN sobering countries. More than 90 participants attended the discussion meeting. Mr. Shashanko Mohan Dey, Headmaster, Nabarun Bidya Niketan was present as the chief guest. Advocate Sharaf Uddin Ahmed, A.K.M Mahbubur Rahman Bulbul, Khandaker Malek Shahidullah attended the discussion meeting.

Jamalpur CCC also observed the "Human Rights Day" on 10th December, 2002. Jamalpur CCC organized a discussion meeting on that day. The meeting was presided over by Convenor Advocate Mohammad Nazrul Islam (Dulu). Mr. Mahmudul Hasan Dara, Mr. Ahmad Swapan Mahmood, Ms Rashida Faruqi, Ms. Shanaz Begum, CCC member Advocate H. R. Zahid Anwar, Advocate Shameem Ara Begum, TIB Program Officer Mr. Ekram Hossain attended the meeting. Mr. Mostafa Babul read the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In the discussion meeting, poet Sajjad Ansari recited a poetry- 'Prithibi'of Rabindra Nath Tagore.

Kishorganj CCC observed the "Human Rights Day" on 12th December, 2002. They arranged a discussion meeting at Kishoreganj Press Club. More than 50 participants from different segments of the society attended the meeting. TIB Program Officer was the key discussant in the meeting. Professor Jalal Ahmed, Advocate Nasir Uddin Faruqui, Abu Khaled Pathan, Khudista Aker and Rafiqul Islam also spoke on the occasion. The discussants spoke about the history of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights Convention of the UN, basic rights and duty of state towards the citizens as per the constitution of Bangladesh and how corruption affects human rights situation in Bangladesh.

Madhupur CCC also organized a discussion meeting of the "Human Rights Day" on 15th December, 2002. The meeting was presided over by Mr. Munsuru Rahman, Principal, Madhupur Adarsha High School. Babul D. Nokrek, Bapi Siddiki, Tanveer Ahmed, among others spoke on the occasion. The discussants urged the concerned people to guarantee human rights by curbing corruption and create a wave against corruption.

DEBATE COMPETITION IN JAMALPUR
The final round of debate competition among school and college students was held in Jamalpur on 2nd December, 2002. Zilla School won the competition at the school level and Asehque Mahmood College won the college level competition. Mr. Samiul Awal and Zahid Anwar became the best debater in the college and school level competition, respectively. The motion of the both debates was "Corruption- main obstacle towards development". The debate of the final round was presided over by Prof. Ansar Ali. Jamalpur CCC members, among others were present at the debate competition.

CITIZENS MEETING
Jamalpur CCC organized a citizens meeting in Digpuit Union Parishad on 14th December, 2002. The meeting was presided over by Professor Abdul Hamid, former Upazilla Chairman. Two former Chairmen Mohammad Mahbubur Rahman Mahabbat and Douludduzaman Dulu attended the meeting. A number of CCC members were also present at the occasion. They discussed about the role and responsibilities of Union Parishad.

Nalitabari CCC also organized a citizens meeting in Poragao union on 14th December, 2002. Two candidates contesting for the post of chairman in upcoming election attended the meeting. More than 130 participants were present in the meeting. CCC convener M. A. Hakam Hira, member Mahfuzur Rahman, Abdur Khalaque, Zahidul Islam Zahid and Jogendra Chandra Roy took part in the meeting.

THEATRE SHOW IN NALITABARI
Nalitabari theatre group performed at three locations of Nalitabari on 12th December, 2002. More than twelve hundred spectators enjoyed the theatre.

30 November 2002
Advocacy On Secondary Education
The Kishoreganj CCC arranged a meeting with the secondary education authority and concerned officials on 16th November 2002. They primarily focused on improving the quality of education at the secondary level. The Deputy Commissioner, Additional Deputy Commissioner, District Primary Education Officer (DPEO), members of the Education Committee attended the meeting. The DPEO has made pledges to prepare a yearly lesson plan immediately and take necessary initiatives for implementation.

Focus Group Discussion
Nalitabari CCC organized six focus group discussions (FGDs) to identify the problems and limitations of Nalitabarti Health Complex from 15th to 22nd November, 2002 at different locations of Nalitabari. A number of problems were identified through those FGDs.

Iftar Party With Government Officials In Jamalpur
Jamalpur CCC arranged an Iftar party on 17th November, 2002 for the Government officials. Most of the senior government officials of Jamalpur District attended the party. Jamalpur CCC discussed the initiatives taken by CCC and TIB. The CCC urged for their support in the movement against corruption.

Citizens Meeting In Kishoreganj
Kishoreganj CCC organized a citizens meeting at Akhrabazar in Kishoreganj on 18th November, 2002. The participants discussed the problems of Municipality services. The ward commissioner agreed to form a committee to enhance the services provided by the municipality. He also promised to declare the municipality budget among the citizens and put waste bins at the roadsides.

Coordination Meeting In Nalitabari
Nalitabari CCC organized a coordination meeting with the Upazilla Nirbahi Officer, Education Officer, School Managing Committee on 20th November, 2002. They discussed about TIB and CCC initiatives in Nalitabari. The CCC inquired about the local administration initiative in relation to curbing corruption from the primary education. The local administration informed about the reduction of the examination fee from tk.20 to tk.15. The authority further assigned the CCC to monitor two of the schools.

Advocacy Meeting With The Railway Authority In Jamalpur
Jamalpur CCC met with the railway station master and the Executive Engineer on 20th November, 2002. The CCC requested the station master to take necessary actions against the existing problems of railway services. The station master agreed to solve the problems of railway services. Another meeting was held with railway hospital authority to improve the health service on 25th November. Jamalpur CCC proposed them to arrange a coordination meeting with the railway authorities including state department, railway hospital and station engineer and railway committee. The station master has given his consent to sit with the CCCs to discuss diverse issues.

Debate Competition
A debate competition was held on 20th November, 2002 at Jamalpur High School between Jamalpur High School and Shimul Jani High School. The competition was presided over by Md. Shahajahan Ali, Senior Assistant Teacher of Jamalpur High School. Shimul Jani High School won the competition.

Meeting To Form Volunteer Group
Madhupur CCC organized a meeting to form a volunteer group in Madhupur on 21st November, 2002. The meeting was addressed by CCC convener Professor Golum Samdhani and Secretary Mr. Arifur Rahman. A number of youth attended the meeting.

Citizens Meeting In Madhupur
Madhupur CCC arranged a citizens meeting on 23rd November, 2002. Mrs. Rokeya Begum, ward commissioner, presided over the meeting. Representatives from different segments of the society were present at the meeting. Madhupur CCC members informed the audiences about the causes and consequences of corruption.

Exchange Of Views On "Transparency And Accountability In Health Service"
Muktagacha CCC organized a meeting to exchange views on health service on 26th November, 2002 in Muktagacha. Muktagacha Upazilla Executive Officer Md. Faruque Alam urged the doctors to improve their service and to increase coordination among doctors and nurses. He also asked to promote transparency and accountability in health organizations. The meeting was presided over by CCC convener Advocate Shamsul Haque. Resident Medical Officer of Muktagacha Upazilla Health Complex Dr. Abdur Razzaque, Member of the Upazilla Health Development Committee Dr. Zahrul Lal Chowdhury also spoke on the occasion. A number of CCC members from Muktagacha attended the meeting. The CCC members gave some recommendations to improve health services in Muktagacha Upazilla Health Complex.

Follow-up meeting on Essay and Debate Competition in Muktagacha, Mymensingh and Madhupur
Mymensingh, Muktagacha and Madhupur CCC organized follow-up meetings on 21st, 24th and 28th November, 2002 respectively. They invited some of the participants, their parents and teachers. The participants appreciated the endeavor and requested to take on such activities in future.

Accountability In Primary Education And In Health ServicesMymensingh CCC organized a discussion meeting with citizens, education and health authority on 27th November, 2002 in Mymensingh. The meeting was presided over by CCC convener Professor Shamsul Islam. The CCC presented some suggestions to improve health services in Mymensingh Medical College and Hospital. They also asked the participants to cooperate CCC in curbing corruption from primary education. Meeting With Municipality
Nalitabari CCC arranged a meeting with Nalitabari Municipality on 28th November, 2002. All Municipality staff, ward commissioners, president of Shilpo Banik Samitee, Trade Union, Truck and Bus Owners Association, CDL- a local NGO attended the meeting. The participants discussed the problems and services provided by the municipality. More than sixty participants attended the meeting. The municipality has taken some decisions to keep the municipality clean and have decided to form four committees in four wards. The municipality authority along with the CCC will observe the cleaning day in every Wednesday in the above mentioned wards by rotation.

Movement Against Drug
Kishoreganj CCC organized a discussion meeting on drug problems in Kishoreganj on 28th November, 2002 at Public Library Auditorium. Kishoreganj Police Superintend Mr. Saiful Alam, Resident Medical Officer Dr. M.A Taher spoke on the occasion. The meeting was presided over by CCC convener Khurshed Uddin Bhuiyan. CCC member Advocate Ashoke Sarker, Advocate Shamsun Nahar Kajol, and Ms. Nazmun Nahar Molly attended the meeting. Advocate Bhupendra Bhowmik Dolon, M.A Latif, Principal (Retd.) Jalal Ahmed, Abdul Latif, former President of Kishorganj Press Club and TIB Assistant Programme Officer Samapika Halder also spoke on the occassion. The Police Super agreed to take utmost initiatives to prevent drug addiction among the youth. The CCC distributed 300 leaflets and hoisted a number of banners in the town.

Citizens Meeting In Muktagacha
Muktagacha CCC organized citizens meeting in two union parishads of Muktagacha on 25th and 28th November, 2002. Muktagacha CCC proposed twelve recommendations to improve the services of Union Parishad (UP). UP members along with a relatively large number of people attended the meeting. The Chairmen of both the UPs were present at the meeting.

15 November 2002

POLITICAL WILLINGNESS AND UNITED EFFORT IS NECESSARY TO BUILD A CORRUPTION FREE SOCIETY
The State Minister for Energy and Mineral Resources A. K. M Mosharraf Hossain attended a prize giving ceremony for essay and debate competition among school and college students as the chief guest, organized by Muktagacha CCC on 7th November, 2002. In his address the State Minister said that "Political willingness and united effort is necessary to build a corruption free society". R.K. High School became champion and Hamida Sultana Girls' High School became runners up at the school level debate competitions. On the other hand Muktagacha College won the competition and Hazi Kasem Ali Girls' Degree College held the runners up position at the college level debate competition. The prize giving ceremony was presided over by CCC convener Advocate Shamsul Hoque. The meeting was also attended by TIB Executive Director Manzoor Hasan. Muktagacha Municipality Chairman Khandaker Abdul Malek Shahidullah and Upazilla Executive Officer Md. Faruque Alam also spoke on the occasion. Three colleges and twelve schools took part in the debate competition.

CITIZENS MEETING IN NALITABARI

CCC Nalitabari arranged a citizens meeting in the Nanni High School at Nanni Union in Nalitabari on 4th November 2002. TIB Executive Director Manzoor Hasan spoke on the occasion while, Alhaj Abdul Motaleb, Chairman of Nanni Union Parishad presided over the meeting. About 70 participants including UP members, teachers, advocates, doctors and local elites of that Union were present at the meeting. Mr. M. A. Hakam Hira, Convenor of CCC, Mahfuzur Rahman and Kohinoor Ruma, members of CCC, Ekram Hossain, Programme Officer of TIB, among others were present at that meeting.

A number of issues were discussed at the meeting. The discussion primarily focused on the cost and cures of corruption and the citizens' role in establishing good governance. Besides, the initiatives taken by the Nalitabari CCC was also highlighted at the meeting.

CITIZENS MEETING IN MYMENSINGH
CCC Mymensingh arranged a citizens meeting in Mymensingh pourasava commissioner's office on 14th November, 2002. The meeting was presided over by pourasava commissioner S M Nazmul Haque Tara. Mymensingh CCC convener Professor Shamsul Islam, CCC members Dr. Pradip Chandra Kar, Md Momtaz Uddin and Mr. Sharifuzzaman Parag were present at the occasion. More than thirty individuals of the locale attended the meeting. CCC secretary and TIB Field Assistant attended the meeting. The CCC members discussed the initiatives by CCC, costs and cures of corruption and citizens' role in establishing good governance in local government.

CITIZENS MEETING IN MUKTAGACHA
CCC Muktagacha organized a citizens meeting at Montala Union, Muktagacha on 4th November, 2002. CCC Convener Advocate Shamsul Haque, CCC member Mr. Ramzan Ali Pathan and Mr. Paritosh Kar and TIB Assistant Programe Officer and Muktagacha CCC Secretary attended the meeting. Mr. Akkas Ali, Chairman, Montola union presided over the meeting. More than forty participants from different professional backgrounds attended the meeting. CCC discussed about causes and cost of corruption. Muktagacha CCC placed a number of suggestions to improve the services provided by the Union Parishad. These are:

" Public announcement of yearly budget
" Name, expenditure and source of fund of ongoing project to be made public
" Name, number and allotment of VGF card to be made public
" Name, number and allotment of VGD card to be hanged for the public
" Name and number of old age pension receivers to be made public
" Name and number of vulnerable women pension receivers to be made public
" Name of the freedom fighters and name of the disabled freedom fighters to be made public
" Allotment of test relief to be made public
" Information on other public works to be informed to the public.
" Scope of work to be provided for female members and female citizens

CITIZENS MEETING IN KISHORGANJ
Kishoreganj CCC arranged a citizens meeting in Kishoreganj on 6th November, 2002. The meeting was presided over by CCC member Mr. Aminul Haque Chowdhury Ferdous. Mrs. Nazmun Nahar Molly Ex-Public Prosecutor, Advocate Zahirul Islam, members of CCC attended the meeting. Around thirty participants at the meeting discussed variegated problems as: drainage problem, drug addiction, and problems in electricity.

PEOPLE'S THEATRE
Nalitabari People's Theatre staged its production "Rukhe Dandao" at three locations of Nalitabari. On an average, six hundred audiences enjoyed the performance with great enthusiasm.

30 October 2002

Prize Giving Ceremony in Madhupur
Madhupur CCC organized the prize giving ceremony of debate and essay competition at Madhupur Upazilla Training and Development Centre on 21st October, 2002. Dhanbari Asiya Hasan Ali Girl's College won the competition while Madhupur Degree College became runners up at the college level. The winner and the runners up at the school level competition were respectively Madhupur Girl's School & Madhupur RB Pilot High School. A discussion meeting was held on the occasion. ADC (General) of Tangail Md. Illias was present as the chief guest at the meeting. Among others, UNO of Madhupur Enamul Hoque Ena, Principal Abdul Aziz, Mrs Mahbuba Salma, Gias Uddin Ahmed, Motiur Rahman spoke on the occasion. Later the chief guest distributed prize among the winners.

Citizens meeting in Jamalpur
Jamalpur CCC arranged a citizens meeting on 23rd October, 2002. More than one hundred and fifty people attended the meeting. The citizens' meeting was presided over by Md. Haider Ali, Chairman, Nurundhi Union Parishad. Cross sectional people attended the meeting. Members of Jamalpur CCC informed the citizens about the causes and consequences of corruption. They called for ensuring transparency and accountability in all sphere of the Union Parishad.

Essay and Debate Competitions in Jamalpur
Jamalpur CCC organized an essay and debate competition among school and college students of Jamalpur. On 23rd October, 2002 Iqbalpur Girls High School was declared the winner of the competition in absence of Government Girls High School. On that date, the debate competition was held between Bania Bazar High School and Railway High School. Bania Bazar High School won the competition. The debate competition between Zilla School and Singhazani Boys High School was held on 29th October, 2002. Zilla School won the competition. The rest of the competitions will be held after the completion of final examinations in different schools.

Citizens meeting in Muktagacha
Muktagacha CCC arranged a citizens meeting on 27th October, 2002 in Daugaon Union Parishad in Muktagacha. Daugaon UP Chairman Advocate Sharaf Uddin presided over the meeting. Muktagacha CCC convener Advocate Shamsul Hoque, TIB Programme Officer Ekram Hossain, CCC member Advocate Ramjan Ali Pathan and Principal A. K. M Habibur Rahman spoke on the occasion. A number of suggestions were put forward by the Muktagacha CCC to improve the services rendered by the Union Parishad :

• Yearly budget to be announced publicly
• Name, expenditure and source of fund of ongoing project to be made public
• Name, number and allotment of VGF card to be made public
• Name, number and allotment of VGD card to be made public
• Name and number of old age pension receivers to be made public
• Name and number of vulnerable women pension receivers to be made public
• Name of the freedom fighters and name of the disabled freedom fighters to be made public
• Allotment of test relief to be made public
• Information on other public works to be informed to the public.

Essay and Debate Competitions in Muktagacha
Debate competitions among school students were held in Muktagacha. A total of six schools took part in the competition. The competition between R. K. High School and Adarsha Girls High School was held on 29th of October. The competition between Hamida Sultana Girls High School and Montola High School was held on 30 October 2002. On the same day, the debate competition between R. K. High School and Hamida Sultana Girls High School was held. On 31st October, 2002 a debate competition was held between Mukul Niketon School and N.N Pilot School and between Nabaron Bidda Niketon and Adarsha Girls High School.

Theatre shows
On 23 October 2002, people's theatre of Muktagacha staged its production "Caricature of Corruption" in three different venues of Muktagacha. More than one thousand and five hundred audiences enjoyed the show. Besides, Nalitabari theatre group performed their production "Resistance" in two locations of Kishoreganj on 31st October, 2002. The turn out at the show was enormous.

Review meeting with RMO of Kishoreganj General Hospital
CCC Kishoreganj had a review meeting with Dr. Abu Taher, Residential Medical Officer (RMO) of Kishoreganj General Hospital on 29 October 2002. CCC Convener Mr. Khurshed Uddin Bhuiyan, and Secretary Mr. Rafiqul Islam were present at the meeting. CCC called for a review about the commitment given by the Civil Surgeon in a meeting on 8 August, 2002 upon the problems stated in the Report Card on Kishoreganj Sadar Hospital. The list of commitments incorporated - a) putting the complaint box in front of the hospital b) hanging notice board containing the list of services iii) hanging board on the list of available medicines and iv) hanging board with the list of duty doctors and nurses. The authority has fulfilled all their commitment except the placement of the complaint box and list of services. However, the RMO assured of providing those services within a short span. There have been significant improvements in the kishoreganj hospital. RMO further acknowledged CCC's initiatives in motivating doctors, nurses and authority in improving the quality of services.

Citizens Meeting at Kishoreganj
A citizens meeting was organized by CCC Kishoreganj in Ward 3 (Kharampatti) of Kishoreganj Sadar. CCC and the citizens of the Ward discussed the problems of that Ward e.g. drainage problem, drug addiction, problem in power sector. Lastly, citizens urged the authority to draw their attention towards solving these problems and improving the municipal services. CCC Convener Mr. Khurshed Uddin Bhuiyan, member Aminul Haque Chowdhury, Secretary Mr. Rafiqul Islam was present at that meeting. Mr. A.K.M. Siddique, Mr. Azizur Rahman Azzu and Mohammad Shahidullah spoke on the occasion on behalf of the citizens of that ward.

Advocacy Skill Sharing for the CCC Members at District Level
TIB has organized a two-day programme on Advocacy Skill Sharing for CCC members at district level from 24-25 October 2002. 22 members from CCC Mymensingh Sadar, Jamalpur Sadar and Kishoreganj Sadar were present at the session. The skill sharing session involved discussions on

1. identifying and prioritizing issue;
2. designing strategies for specific advocacy issue;
3. appraising socio-economic conditions;
4. designing an advocacy campaign;
5. influence media; and
6. the presentation and facilitation skill.

Some TIB's advocacy programme like, BAC, CAG, PAC and Parliament watch have been discussed as case study. CCC members and facilitators shared their advocacy experiences in CCC activities and other activities in their social life. Mr. Abu Zayed Mohammed, a member and the Programme Specialist of TIB was present as the core facilitator. TIB's Executive Director Barrister Manzoor Hasan, Research fellow Dr. Anser Ahmed, Mr.Tanbir Ul Islam Siddiqui, member of TIB, Research Associate Mr. Abdul Alim and Mr. Mohammad Anwarul Amin were present as facilitators. Samapika Halder, Assistant Programme Officer of TIB has coordinated the programme.

15 October 2002

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF TRANSPARENCY INTERNATIONAL
The annual general meeting of TI was held in Casablanca, Morocco on 12th &13th of October 2002. Prior to the meeting a number of workshops were held on issues such as 'governance within TI' and 'Accreditation of National Chapters'. The AGM started with dinner on 11th October and with the presentation of the Integrity Awards Ceremony and the launching of a publicity video and the Tool Kit 2002. It could be mentioned here that TIB has contributed to both the video and the tool kit.

The meeting was attended by Professor Muzaffer Ahmad and Manzoor Hasan, on behalf of TIB. The formal AGM took place on 13th afternoon and among other items some new Directors were elected to the Board of Directors. Dr. Peter Eigen was elected as the Chairman of the Board.

SEMINAR
Muktagacha CCC organized a seminar entitled the "Role of the State and Citizens in establishing good governance at the Union and Upazilla level" on 3rd October, 2002 in Muktagacha, Mymensingh. Professor Zatin Sarker was present as the chief guest while Upazilla Executive Officer Md. Faruque Alam was present as the special guest. Muktagacha CCC convener Advocate Shamsul Haque presided over the seminar. USAID mission Chief Mr. Gene V. George, TIB Executive Director Manzoor Hasan, CCC member Advocate Mahbubur Rahman Bulbul, Swapon Kumur Das and Ekhlasur Rahman also spoke on the occasion.

Professor Zatin Sarkar in his speech emphasized the role of citizens in establishing good governance. Only an empowered citizenry can ensure democracy and good governance.

Two papers were presented in the seminar by Mr. Mukhlesur Rahman, lecturer of Anandamohan College and Advocate Sharafuddin Ahmad. A number of participants from different segments of the society attended the seminar

CARICATURE OF CORRUPTION
TIB and Muktagacha CCC has formed a theatre group and organized a nine-day workshop in Muktagacha. The premier show of their first production "Caricature of Corruption" was staged on 4th October 2002 in Muktagacha. More than two hundred spectators enjoyed the production. The theatre group performed two shows in Madhupur on 14th October and four shows in Muktagacha between 8 and 9 October, 2002. Madhupur CCC convener Professor Golam Samdani spoke on the occasion.

DEBATE COMPETITION
The final round of the debate competition among university students were held in Mymensingh on 3rd October, 2002. Students of Zoology department and Accounting department of Ananda Mohan College took part in the competition. The motion of the debate was "Curbing corruption can only confirm sustainable development". The Accounting Department won the competition. The final round of the debate competition at the school level was held in Mymensingh on 9th October, 2002. Mymensingh Zilla School and Government Laboratory High School, Mymensingh got into the final. The motion of the debate was "Only politicians can curb corruption from the society". Mymensingh Zilla High School won the competition.

ADVOCACY PROGRAM ON REPORT CARD ON PRIMARY EDUCATION
The Jamalpur CCC members conducted an advocacy programme on the report card on primary education on 13th October, 2002. More than two hundred headmasters of different primary schools and Assistant Upazilla Education Officer of Jamalpur were present at the meeting. The Jamalpur CCC convener Advocate Mohammad Nazrul Islam (Dulu), CCC members Professor Ansar Ali, Mr. Mustafa Monzu and Advocate Shamima Khan, TIB Programme Officer Ekram Hossain made a short presentation on the activities of Transparency International, Transparency International Bangladesh and Committees of Concerned Citizens (CCCs). Later, the findings of the report card survey on primary education were presented. Upazilla Education Officer of Nalitabari appreciated the report card survey on primary education. However, few headmasters criticized the findings of the report card.

30 September 2002
National Integrity Workshop (NIW)

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has organized a two-day "National Integrity Workshop" on 21-22 September, 2002, at CIRDAP auditorium. The fact-finding reports of the following institutions were launched through this workshop:

The Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)
The Standing Committee on Public Accounts (PAC)

Subsequently, a revised working paper on the structure of the proposed "Bangladesh Anti-corruption Commission" (BACC) was put forward at the final day of the "National Integrity Workshop"

The Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) & the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (PAC)

The NIW was divided into three sessions. The first day was separated into two sessions. Professor Khan Sarwar Murshid, Chairman, Board of Trustees, TIB, convened the workshop. At the first half of the session on 21 September, 2002, the findings of the fact-finding exercise on the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) along with a working paper were put forward. Subsequently, a fact-finding report in conjunction with a working paper on the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (PAC) was presented at the second half of the first day. Professor Muzaffer Ahmad, member of the Board of Trustees, TIB, made power point presentations on these two watchdog agencies. A number of lawmakers, politicians, academics, researchers, senior journalists, government officials, members of the Committees of Concerned Citizens (CCCs), lawyers and civil society representatives took part in the discussion.

M. Hafizuddin, Chairman of Public Expenditure Commission and former advisor to the caretaker government, said it is not possible to audit all things of such a big administration. Dr Moinul Islam, former president of the Bangladesh Economic Association, said the nation should be informed about all overt and covert expenditures of defense sector. "If a country spends 63 per cent in unproductive sector, how will it provide education and healthcare services to people?" he questioned. Awami League lawmaker Col. Shawkat Ali said the parliament runs according to the wish of the ruling party and its leader. "The speaker of the house cannot function in constant fear of losing his job. There has already been a precedent of removing the president and it needs only a simple majority to remove the speaker." The chairman of the PAC in the seventh parliament SM Akram said, "Any case should be resolved in the court, not on the instruction from the Prime Minister's Office." Referring to absence of opposition party in the fifth and seventh parliament, Shudhangshu Shekhar Halder said, "We (political parties) cannot work in cooperation." On the other hand, BNP lawmaker Professor Shahidul Islam opined there should be an understanding between the treasury and the opposition benches that any report related to corruption would be discussed in the House.

Channel I and ATN Bangla (TV channels) made extensive coverage on this event. The following day (22nd September, 2002) most of the national dailies made their lead stories on the workshop proceedings.

Bangladesh Anti-corruption Commission (BACC)

In the second day, a working paper on the structure of the proposed Bangladesh Anti-Corruption Commission (BACC) was presented by Professor Muzaffer Ahmad.

Former Chief Advisor of the caretaker government Justice Habibur Rahman, former cabinet secretary Mujibul Haq, former law minister Abdul Matin Khasru, journalist A Z M Enayetullah Khan, former director general of the Bureau of Anti-Corruption M Badiuzzaman and Dr Asif Nazrul, among others, were present at the occassion. It was proposed that the commission would have one chairman and two members. Besides, there will be a constitutional body which will suggest the appointment of the chairman and members of the commission. President of the Republic will appoint the chairman and members of the commission for a period of five years and in the light of the suggestion of the constitutional body, the working paper said.
Former cabinet secretary Mr. Mujibul Haq expressed his disappointment at the proposal made by TIB on the formation of the commission. Mere change of name from bureau to commission would not solve the problem, Haq expressed. He said with the establishment of rule of law and building up an honest administration by the elected government would help reducing corruption in the country.

The following day (23rd September, 2002) most of the national dailies made their lead stories on the workshop proceedings of the second day.

Training on Report card Methodology for Journalists and NGO activists

South Asia Partnership (SAP) and ActionAid Bangladesh (AAB) jointly organized a training programme on report card methodology on 25-28th September, 2002 in Galachipa, Patuakhali. TIB Research Officer facilitated the training. Twenty five participants attended the training. Participants from different local, national and international NGOs and journalists from local and national news papers attended the training. SAP and AAB are trying to involve journalists in the process of report card preparation. Through the training, the participants conducted four report card surveys on four local institutions. These are:

(i) Galachipa Upazilla Police Station
(ii) Galachipa Upazilla Land Office
(iii) Galachipa Upazilla Health Complex
(iv) Galachipa Upazilla Primary Education

To improve further training on report card methodology, the participants gave a number of suggestions:

(i) Increase the number of facilitators.
(ii) Expand time for each session.
(iii) Increase field work.
(iv) Avoid lecture.

33% of the participants are very satisfied, 60% are somewhat satisfied and only 7% are not satisfied on the training. All of the participants made comments that the training met their expectations.

People's Theatre Show

The Nalitabari Theatre Group performed their workshop based production "Rukhe Dandao" (Resistance) in the auditorium of Women's Volunteer Association in Dhaka on 22nd September, 2002. The following day, the Daily Janakantha published the story of the show.

American Week

TIB attended in the "American Week" organized by the USAID from 20-21 September, 2002 in Chittagong. TIB displayed its publications through display booth. TIB Executive Director Manzoor Hasan made a power-point presentation on TIB's ongoing activities. TIB Friend Md. Hamidul Islam was present at the booth.

Focus Group Discussion on ParliamentWatch Report

A Focus Group Discussion (FGD) on the ParliamentWatch Report was held in TIB office on 30th September, 2002. A number of parliament reporters attended the FGD. They gave some suggestions to improve the study. They also suggested TIB to send a formal letter to the Speaker of the Parliament requesting for the parliamentary proceedings.

Press conference on the Report card on health services of Jamalpur General Hospital

Jamalpur CCC arranged a press conference on 19th September, 2002 on the report card on health services of Jamalpur General Hospital. The Jamalpur CCC Convener Advocate Nazrul Islam, other CCC members, TIB Programme Officer Ekram Hossain attended the press conference. A number of journalists of national and local dailies attended the press conference.

Workshop - Report card on health services

Mymensingh CCC organized a workshop on the report card on health services on 28th September, 2002. Representatives from different segments of the society attended the workshop. The objective of the workshop was to prepare recommendations on how to improve health services in government hospitals.

Essay and Debate Competition

Nalitabari CCC arranged a prize giving ceremony among the winners of the essay and debate competition on 27th September, 2002. Alhaj Zahid Ali Chowdhury, the Whip of the National Parliament was present as the chief guest. TIB Executive Director Manzoor Hasan attended ceremony. Mr. Chowdhury appreciated the works of TIB in his constituency. He pledged his full support to its future commitments. Speaking before a packed audience in Nalitabari Pilot Girls' High School, he vowed to bring transparency and accountability to his electorate. The Executive Director of TIB, Mr. Manzoor Hasan asked everyone to work together to build a corruption free Bangladesh. He cited the glowing examples of Hong Kong and Singapore in this regard. Following his speech, books and certificates were distributed among the winners.

Citizens meeting

CCC Nalitabari arranged a citizens meeting in the Missionary School at Kakarkandi Union in Nalitabari on 20th September 2002. Mr. Afaz Uddin Talukder of Kakorkandi Union presided over the meeting. About 50 participants including Mr. Najimuddin, Chairman of Kakorkandi Union and member, CCC Nalitabari, UP members (including 3 female members), Chowkiders and Dafaders (village polices), teachers, advocate, doctor and local elites of that Union were presents at the meeting. Mr. M. A. Hakam Hira, Convenor of CCC, Kiron Dutta, Samedul Islam, Zahidul Islam Zahid, Mahfuzur Rahman and Kohinoor Ruma among CCC members, Samapika Halder, Assistant Programme Officer of TIB were present at that meeting.

CCC members discussed about the initiatives by CCC (particularly the CCC Nalitabari) and TIB, cost and cures of corruption and citizens' role in establishing good governance in local government. Assistant Programme Officer of TIB focused on duties and responsibilities of a Union Council, UP Chairman, members and village polices. All discussants invited the citizens to raise their voice against corruption.

Cleaning day

Kishorganj CCC observed a cleaning day to protect dengue fever on 19th September, 2002 in Kishorganj. Kishorganj Deputy Commissioner Md. Mahfuzur Rahman inaugurated the cleaning day. Kishorganj Pourasava Chairman Mr. Nurul Islam Nuru also spoke on the occasion. They also organized a rally on the same day. The main objective of the rally was to create awareness among public against dengue.

Workshop on People's theatre

TIB and Muktagacha CCC have organized a ten-day workshop on theatre in Muktagacha from 25th September to 4th October, 2002. Twenty participants from Muktagacha attended the workshop. The group will stage the first production "Caricature of Corruption" on 4 August, 2002 in Muktagacha.

15 September 2002

Press Conference on
The Report Card on Health Services of Kishorganj General Hospital

Kishorganj CCC arranged a press conference on 8th September, 2002 on the publication of its report card on health services of Kishorganj General Hospital. The Civil Surgeon of Kishorganj, A.B.M. Azizul Islam attended the press conference. Besides, Kishorganj CCC Convener Khurshed Uddin Bhuiyan, CCC member Dr. Deen Mohammad and TIB Programme Officer Ekram Hossain were present at the conference.

Let The Argument Of Debate Enlighten The Horizon Of Morality

Mymensingh, Muktagacha and Nalitabari CCCs have organized debate competitions among different schools, colleges and University students in their respective areas. The motion was "Let the argument of debate enlighten the horizon of morality".

In Mymensingh Mymensingh CCC has organized a month-long debate competition that got started from 11th September 2002. A number of schools, colleges and universities are participating in this contest. Topics related to corruption and governance issues are chosen as subject matters.

On 5th September 2002, a month long debate festival kicked off in Muktagacha. The CCC in Muktagacha organized the event. Renowned schools and colleges from the locale actively participated in the contest. The topics revolved around the theme of corruption and governance related issues.

The week long debate competition in Nalitabari came to a successful end on 2nd September, 2002. A number of schools and colleges participated in the debate competitions.

31 August 2002

ParliamentWatch Report
TIB released the first report on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd session of the 8th Parliament on 22 August, 2002 at the VIP Lounge of the National Press Club, Dhaka. Chairman of TIB's Board of Trustees Professor Khan Sarwar Murshid, Member Professor Muzeffar Ahmad, Executive Director Manzoor Hasan and Research Associate Md. Abdul Alim were present at the press conference and presented the findings of the report. ETV, Channel I, and ATN Bangla telecasted the results of the report on that day. The following day (23 August, 2002) most of the national dailies made their lead stories on ParliamentWatch.

Members' meeting
TIB members' meeting was held on 22 August, 2002 at the auditorium of Women's Voluntary Association (WVA). TIB Executive Director Manzoor Hasan moderated the meeting. More than forty members attended the meeting. Members were split into several groups to discuss the modalities for involving members in various TIB activities. Nalitabari Theatre Group performed at the meeting.

Corruption Perceptions Index, 2002
In Bangladesh, the CPI was released at a press conference at the VIP Lounge of National Press Club on 28 August, 2002. Chairman of TIB's Board of Trustees Professor Khan Sarwar Murshid, Member Professor Muzeffar Ahmad and Executive Director Manzoor Hasan were present at the press conference and explained various dimensions of CPI 2002. BBC Bengali service transmitted the news of CPI. ETV, Channel I, and ATN Bangla telecasted the results of the CPI 2002 on the same day. The following day various newspapers made extensive press coverage on CPI 2002.

Workshop on Peoples' theatre
TIB and Nalitabari CCC organized a workshop on theatre in Nalitabari from 9-18 August, 2002. Twenty five participants from Nalitabari attended the workshop. The premier show of "Rukkhe Darau" (production of Peoples' Theatre Group, Nalitabari) was held in Nalitabari on 19 August, 2002. More than one thousand spectators were present at the show.

Meeting with Civil Surgeon of Mymensingh
Mymensingh and Muktagacha CCC members met with the Mymensingh Civil Surgeon Dr. Md. Akber Ali on 21 August, 2002 regarding the report card survey on health services. The Civil Surgeon appreciated CCC activities on health sector. Muktagacha CCC convener Advocate Shamsul Hoque, Mymensingh CCC member Advocate Anisur Rahman Khan were present at the meeting. The CCC members have suggested for establishing public notice board and maintaining complaint box in the hospital premises. The Civil Surgeon informed CCC members that he would take initiatives for the implementation of CCC's suggestions.

Seminar on "Faults in Basic Education and Solution"
Kishorganj CCC organized a seminar on "Faults in Basic Education and Solution" on 22nd August 2002 in Kishorganj Press Club Auditorium. Professor Shafi Ahmed, Department of English, Jahangirnagar University, presented a key-note paper at the seminar entitled ""Faults in Basic Education and Solution". Mymensingh CCC member Professor Zatin Sarker was present as the chief discussant. Kishorganj District Commissioner Md. Mahafuzur Rahman was present as the special guest. The CCC Convener Khurshed Uddin Bhuiyan presided over the meeting. CCC member and former Member of the Parliament Mr Shafiqul Islam, TIB Programme Officer Mr Ekram Hossain also participated in the seminar. More than two hundred participants from different segments of the society took part in the meeting.

Meeting with Additional District Commissioner (ADC), Mymensingh
Mymensingh CCC members met with the Additional District Commissioner (Education) Md. Abu Bakar Siddique on 25th August, 2002 regarding the report card survey on primary education. Mymensingh CCC member Md. Niamul Kabir Sajal and Field Assistant Karuna Kishore Charaborti were present at the meeting. CCC asked the ADC to assist CCC in curbing corruption from the education sector.

Advocacy meeting of the report card survey on Primary Education
Jamalpur CCC organized an advocacy meeting on the report card on primary education on 26th August, 2002 at the Jamalpur CCC office. Jamalpur Upazilla Primary Education Officer, TIB Programme Officer and a number of CCC members were present at the meeting. The Upazilla Primary Education Officer showed his enthusiasm on TIB and CCC activities.

Report card on health services of Madhupur Upazilla Health Complex
Madhupur CCC arranged a press conference on 26 August, 2002 on the report card on health services of Madhupur Upazilla Health Complex. A number of journalists of national and local dailies attended the press conference.

Rally
Mymensingh CCC attended a rally against "Dengue Fever" on 26th August, 2002 organized by Mymensingh Civil Surgeon office. The main objective of the rally was to create mass awareness against dengue fever.

Essay and Debate Competition
Nalitabari CCC organized an essay and debate competition among school students in Nalitabari from 24-29 August, 2002. A number of schools participated in the competition.

15 August 2002

MEETING WITH CIVIL SURGEON
Kishorganj CCC members met with Kishorgonj Civil Surgeon A.B.M. Azizul Islam on 8 August, 2002 regarding the report card survey on health services. The Kishorgonj CCC Convener Khurshed Uddin Bhuiyan, CCC members and CCC secretary were present at the meeting. A number of doctors, nurses and staff were present at the occasion. CCC members highlighted the findings of the report card on health services of Kishorgonj General Hospital. The Civil Surgeon and doctors criticized the report. But they accepted CCC's recommendations in order to improve health services in hospitals.

CONDOLENCE MEETING
Muktagacha CCC organized a condolence meeting in memory of late Debashish Achariya Chowdhury, a CCC member on 9 August, 2002 in Muktagacha. TIB Executive Director, CCC Convener, CCC members and a number of local professional attended at the meeting.

WORKSHOP ON MOBILE THEATRE
Nalitabari CCC has formed a theatre group. The workshop on the theatre has started on 9 August, 2002. A number of local performers have attended the workshop.

ADVOCACY MEETING ON REPORT CARD ON PRIMARY EDUCATION
Nalitabari CCC A number of leaders of the association attended the meeting. Nalitabari CCC Convener. M. A. Hakam Hira, TIB Program Officer, CCC Secretary, and members of the CCC participated at the meeting. The leaders of the association agreed most of the findings of the report and showed their willingness to implement some of the recommendations of CCC.

DEBATE COMPETITION
Madhupur CCC organized a debate competition on 14 August, 2002 at Dhanbari in Madhupur. The motion was that "Only the Political Parties can Curb Corruption from the Society". Two of the major colleges of Madhupur took part in the competition. CCC Convener Md. Golam Samdani presided over the debate competition.

30 July 2002

Advocacy Program on Report Card on Health Service
The Mulktagacha CCC members met with the Upazilla Health and Family Planning Officer (UHFPO) on 29 July, 2002. Muktagacha CCC convener advocate Shamsul Hoque, CCC member A.K.M. Mahbubur Rahman (Bulbul), Selima Begum Baby and CCC secretary attended the meeting. They handed over the report card on health service for their feedback. He agreed with most of the findings of the survey. CCC members asked the UHFPO to cooperate with each other in curbing corruption in the health complex.

Debate competition
Madhupur CCC organized debate competitions on corruption and governance related issues on 31 July, 2002. Students of schools, colleges and madrasas participated in the competition. The Madhupur CCC convener Professor Golam Samdhani presided over the competition.

Networking meeting
Nalitabari CCC organized a networking meeting with various NGOs, government officers and civil society. Nalitabari CCC members asked other NGOs, government officials and civil society to aid in curbing corruption from Nalitabari.

Meeting with Railway authority
Kishorganj CCC members met with the railway authority on 31st July, 2002. They asked the railway authority to improve services in Kishorganj railway.

15 July 2002

CORRUPTION DATABASE REPORT

TIB arranged a press conference to release its Corruption Database Report 2001 on 9 July, 2002 at Chittagong Press Club, Chittagong. The press conference was attended by Dr. Muzaffar Ahmed, member, Trustee Board, TIB, Manzoor Hasan, Executive Director, TIB, and Md. Abdul Alim, Research Associate, TIB. This report got wide press coverage the following day ( 10 July,2002). Most of the newspapers made their lead stories with the findings of the report and published editorials. Columnist of different newspapers are quoting TIB's reports. BBC Bengali Service broadcasted the findings of the report on 9 July, 2002 and interviewed TIB trustee professor Muzaffar Ahmad and Honorable Minister of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Barrister Moudud Ahmed. Voice of America also broadcasted the findings of the report on the same day.

30 June 2002

WORLD BANK'S PREM WEEK

The Executive Director of TIB was invited to speak at two sessions of the World Bank's PREM week. The first session entitled 'Round Table on Experience with Institutional and Governance Reviews (IGRs) and Political Analysis' on 19th June 2002. IGRs are a new type of analytical report that traces the institutional roots of poor government performance and provides practical alternatives for operational design and country strategy. Such a review has been undertaken in the case of Bangladesh together with few other countries. Taming Leviathan: Reforming Governance in Bangladesh was published in March 2002. It was pointed out that such IGRs give a better understanding of the context in which reform measures are being implemented. Such a 'big picture' analysis could readily identify both the past failures and future 'windows of opportunity'. See powerpoint presentation.

The second session was entitled 'Governance and Corruption' (held on 25th June 2002) and Manzoor Hasan was one of four panel members. Many countries have formulated programmes to improve governance and combat corruption, yet implementation has been uneven. The session discussed case studies to explore what worked and what did not and why with the aim of provoking ideas on the Bank's role in helping to combat corruption and strengthen governance. See powerpoint presentation.

SEMINAR ON 'DEMOCRACY: CORRUPTION AND GOOD GOVERNANCE'

TIB and Committees of Concerned Citizens of Nalitabari jointly organized a seminar titled 'Democracy: Corruption and Good Governance' on 21st June at Nalitabari in Sherpur. Noted lawyer and constitution expert Dr. Kamal Hossain was present as the chief guest. He said that multi-party democracy does not mean partisan politics. He also said the ruling parties of the country in fact are destroying the base of the democracy by indulging in dirty politics. Kamal Hossain in his address called for a united effort to establish a society free from corruption and exploitation. With Convenor of the CCC MA Hakam Hira in the chair, the seminar was addressed by Jatin Sarkar, journalist Hakim Babul and TIB Programme Officer Ekram Hossain. Professor Matindra Sarkar and Provat Chandra Pal presented two papers on education, good governance and corruption.

15 June 2002

REGIONAL MEETING OF SOUTH ASIAN TI CHAPTERS

Regional meeting of South Asian TI Chapter was held on 10-12 June, 2002 in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Twenty two participants from all national TI chapters of South Asia and three participants from TI Secretariat were present in the regional meeting. TI-Bangladesh chaired the first day of the regional meeting. At the first day, discussion was held on the decisions of the 2001 meeting, the implications of the current political instability in the region for the work of the chapters, TI strategic discussion, recent developments of integrity system in the country, ongoing programmes, funding situation etc. TIB CCCs members made six presentations. At the second day, discussions were held on regional survey. In that day, different chapters also presented their new toolkits. At the third day, discussions were held on the anti-corruption action plan for Asia and priority areas for joint action. The following table shows the name of the participants of the regional meeting:

OPENING OF ADVICE AND INFORMATION CENTER

Transparency International Bangladesh opened its first Advice and Information Center (AIC) at 3/Ka, College Road, Mymensingh on Friday, June 14, 2002 at 10:30 am. AIC is the clearinghouse of TIB where information are managed and compiled through research and other sources, disseminate through leaflet, fact sheets, reports etc. and provide advice to the general public. Ms. Margit van Ham, the Executive Director of Transparency International (TI) inaugurated the AIC. CCC member Mr. A. H. M. Khalequzzaman presided over the inauguration ceremony. TIB Executive Director Manzoor Hasan, Mymensingh and Muktagacha CCC members, a number of journalists, lawyers, teachers and other renowned personalities from Mymensingh attended the opening ceremony.

SEMINAR ON "TRANSPARENCY IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION AND DEMOCRACY"

TIB and Madhupur CCC jointly organized a seminar entitled "Irregularities in land administration and transparency and accountability in political parties" on 14th June, 2002 at Pourasava Auditorium, Tangail. Professor Golum Samdani, convenor of Madhupur CCC presented a paper on "Transparency, accountability and democracy in political parties", while Advocate Kamakka Nath Sen presented another on "Abolish of Zamindar System and Distribution of Khas Land". Professor Muzaffar Ahmad, TIB Trustee member was present as the chief guest while Ms. Margit van Ham, the Executive Director of Transparency International and Md. Ilias, Assistant Deputy Commissioner of Tangail were present as the special guests in the seminar. Professor Sekandar Hayat presided over the seminar. More than hundred participants from different segments of the society were present.

30 May 2002

ADVOCACY PROGRAM ON REPORT CARD ON PRIMARY EDUCATION

Muktagacha CCC members met with the Primary School Teachers' Association of Muktagacha on 30 May 2002. Muktagacha CCC convener Advocate Shamsul Hoque, CCC member Debashish Achariya Chowdhury Tublu and Paritosh Kar, CCC secretary Akhi Kundu, field assistant Karuna Kishor Chakrabarty were present at the meeting. The CCC members presented the findings of the report card survey on primary education. The members of the association appreciated the initiatives taken by TIB and the CCC. The members of the association accepted the CCC members' invitation to co-operate with TIB in curbing corruption in the education sector.

15 May 2002

TRANSPARENCY INTERNATIONAL PACIFIC REGIONAL CONFERENCE AND CONSULTATION

Manzoor Hasan attended a five day regional conference in Papua New Guinea, from 11-15 May 2002. He addressed two training sessions on Regional survey and report card on 14 and 15 May 2002, respectively. TI-Vanuatu, TI-Solomon Islands, TI-Fiji, TI-PNG, TI-New Zealand, TI-Australia also attended the conference. TI-Secretariat was represented by Margit Van Ham and Folkard Wohlgemuth.

MUTUAL LEGAL ASSISTANCE SEMINAR

TIB was invited to attend a seminar on Mutual Legal Assistance, held in Hampshire, England on 1st and 2nd May, 2002. The seminar was organized by the Department of International Development in association with TI-UK. The seminar highlighted the legal provisions available to foreign governments in seeking assistance with legal proceedings against alleged beneficiaries of corruption. Representatives from Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe were present.

SOUTH ASIA FORUM, WILTON HOUSE, ENGLAND, 29 APRIL - 2 MAY 2002

Zia Haider Rahman attended a 4 day conference in the United Kingdom organized by the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the Ford Foundation drawing together around 30 under-40 year olds from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal and the Maldives. The participants included journalists, entrepreneurs, public servants, politicians lawyers and development workers. The conference subject-matter was Governance in the South Asia region. Mr Rahman reports that the conference was immensely valuable in educational terms and in terms of developing stronger regional ties.

NEED ASSESSMENT STUDY FOR DRAFTING A MANUAL ON EFFECTIVE LOBBYING AND ADVOCACY

A need assessment study was conducted in Mymensingh on 15 May 2002 by TIB. Kamrul Aman, Senior Trainer, BRAC and Mohammad Hossain, Chief Trainer, TARC, BRAC, Madhupur conducted the study. Most of the CCC members of Mymensingh participated in the study.

ANTI MASS-CHEATING CAMPAIGN
The Muktagacha CCC organized a campaign on 11-12 May, 2002 against mass-cheating in public examinations. They published a leaflet to raise awareness among students of the negative side of cheating. The CCC also organized a rally against mass cheating on 12 May, 2002. The Muktagacha Upazilla Nirbhahi Officer, CCC members and a number of students attended the rally.

Reactions expressed by the Finance Minister and some others in the past few days to the publication of the Transparency International (TI) Corruption Perception Index (CPI) call for some response and clarification from Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB). We would like to present a few facts to the interested public: neither the content nor the time of publication of the CPI was determined by TIB. Dr Peter Eigen, Chairman TI, in his communication of 29th June from Berlin asserted that the CPI has nothing to do with the orthcoming elections in Bangladesh and that "the people preparing the data and the managers here at TI Secretariat endorsing the decision to include them, did not even know about these elections. As is the standing procedure for preparing the CPI, Transparency International Bangladesh nor the Chairman of the Advisory