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 Council was consulted."

The principle obviously is not to involve anyone in the TI exercise in respect of CPI from the country which is being assessed. TIB only made public a document, for the convenience of the press in Dhaka, which was to be published internationally within a matter of 4 hours anyway. The CPI was prepared at the University of Gottingen under the supervision of a technical committee consisting of professors of different universities. The technical committee works independently of TI chapters.

The entire document along with the explanatory framework was given to the members of the press. It was emphasized clearly and repeatedly in the course of the press conference, with quotations from the document, that the Index represented "perceptions which need not be fully in line with reality" in the absence of hard empirical data. The polls were carried out, not as alleged, by ordinary NGOs but by the World Bank (Business Environment Survey 2001), the World Economic Forum (Global Competitiveness Report 2001) and the Economist Intelligence Unit 2001. The results of the 3 polls, that is, the three sets of perceptions, were used and verified against one another. TI has made available not only a score but the range and standard deviation as the precision of the score depends on them. It was made amply clear that the score for Bangladesh was not as precise as that of some other countries in the Index. It was mandatory for TI to include in the CPI such results in all cases where three polls were carried out even though the outcome might not be pleasant for some countries. Incidentally, a Bribe Payers Index has been published by TI to complement the CPI in 1999. The next one is due in 2002.

The correct position is that of the 91 countries listed in the Index Bangladesh's score was the lowest. There is however no reason for anyone to gloat over the perception as disclosed by the latest CPI as some appear to be doing, for the fact is that even in 1996 we were fairly close to the bottom: actually, we were among the five most corrupt countries even then with a rating not resoundingly high. The current disclosure in the TI Index could by no means be construed as an attempt to malign the image of Bangladesh since it is only one among 91 countries.

30 April 2002

Advocacy Program on Report Card on Primary Education

The Madhupur CCC members met with the Upazilla Education Committee on 27 April, 2002. The Madhupur CCC members, TIB Program Officer, Madhupur Upazilla Nirbahi Officer, Upazilla Education Officer, Assistant Education Officer, Members of Upazilla Education Committee, leaders of Upazilla Teachers Association were present at the meeting. They discussed about the findings of the report card survey on primary education. Some decisions were also made regarding the examination fees at the meeting.

15 April 2002

ADVOCACY PROGRAM ON REPORT CARD ON PRIMARY EDUCATION

The Mymensingh CCC members met with Md. Safiqul Islam, the new Upazilla Education Officer (UEO) of Mymensingh sadar Upazilla on 3 April, 2002. The Mymensingh CCC members Mr. Md. Momtaz Uddin, Mr. Sharifuzzaman Parag and Mr. Niamul Kabir Sajal, Office Secretary Ms. Sazia Afreen, and 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 Upazilla Education Officer appreciated the initiatives taken by TIB and the CCC. The Education Officer accepted the CCC members’ invitation to co-operate with TIB in curbing corruption in the education sector.

DEBATE COMPETITION

Nalitabari CCC organized a debating competition on 4 April, 2002 for TIB Volunteers. The motion was that “The present education system is responsible for cheating in public examinations”. The CCC convener M. A Hakam Hira presided over the competition.

PERFORMANCES OF BAGHER GAPPA

Muktagacha CCC organized three performances of Bagher Gappa in different parts of Muktagacha. Large audiences attended each show. Three performances of Bager Gappa were held in different places of Chittagong on 7-8 April 2002 and were organized by TIB Friends of Chittagong. Over three hundred attended each performance. TIB Media Outreach Relations Officer Md. Imam Uddin, and Dr. Yeahia Akhter spoke on the occasion. Hamidul Islam Shamim(member of TIB) helped in organizing the program.

MEETING WITH DISTRICT PRIMARY EDUCATION OFFICER (DPEO)

Muktagacha CCC members met with Mr. Sheikh Afzal Ali, the District Primary Education Officer (DPEO) on 9 April, 2002. The CCC convener Advocate Shamsul Hoque, Office Secretary Ms. Akhi Kundu, and Field Assistant Karuna Kishor Chakrabarty were present at the meeting. The CCC convener presented the findings of the report card survey on primary education. Sheikh Afzal Ali, District Education Officer of Mymensingh appreciated the initiatives taken by TIB and CCC. The Education Officer accepted the CCC members’ invitation to co-operate with TIB in curbing corruption in the education sector.

31 March 2002

FACT-FINDING REPORT ON THE BUREAU OF ANTI-CORRUPTION AND PROPOSED STRUCTURE ON THE INDEPENDENT ANTI-CORRUPTION COMMISSION (IACC)

TIB arranged a discussion meeting on the Fact-Finding report of the present Bureau of Anti-Corruption and the proposed structure for an Independent Anti-Corruption Commission (IACC) on March 29, 2002 at the office of Deputy Commissioner, in Kishorganj. TIB Executive Director Manzoor Hasan moderated the discussion meeting. Md. M. Anwarul Amin, Research Associate of TIB presented the results of the Fact-Finding Report and the proposed structure of the IACC. The Speakers at the discussion were Deputy Commissioner, Additional Deputy Commissioner, politicians, journalists, NGO activists, lawyers, CCC members and academics.

ANTI-CORRUPTION PROCESSION AND DEBATE COMPETITION

The CCC of Nalitabari organized an anti-corruption procession on the 26th March, 2002. They also organized a debate competition in the same day. A number of volunteers , TIB Programme Officer, and CCC members joined the anti-corruption procession. The Nalitabari CCC convener M. A. Hakam Hira presided over the debate competition.

STAFF ORIENTATION COURSE

TIB organized a three-day staff orientation course for the Field Assistants and Field Supervisors of South Asian Regional Corruption Survey from 31st March 2002 to 2nd April , at the BRAC training centre, Mymensingh. The course was coordinated by the Research Officer of TIB . TIB Programme Officer Ekram Hossain, Research Associate Anwarul Amin also spoke on the occasion.

15 March 2002

LECTURE IN AGM OF UNB

TIB addressed a session (The role of journalists in curbing corruption and in ensuring good governance) in the Annual General Meeting of District Correspondents of United News of Bangladesh (UNB), which was held on 10-11 March 2002 at the head office of UNB. TIB Executive Director Manzoor Hasan presented a paper in the meeting on 11th March, 2002 entitled "Abuse of Power, Corruption and the Role of Journalists".

VISIT OF DONORS TO THE CCC AREAS

A three-member team of DFID, SIDA of Sweeden, and NORAD visited CCCs areas from 14th to 15th March 2002. They are Bo Sundstrom of DFID, John Norqvist of SIDA,and Mr. Tom Hunstad of NORAD. Dr. Mirza Hassan was also included in the team. The visitors visited all three CCCs areas. They met with the CCC members of these three areas. They talked with other people of the CCC areas. The team will give suggestions on the project 'Making Waves'.

VISIT OF MR. BOSSE BERGNEHR TO CCC AREAS

Mr. Bosse Bergnehr, a Swedish international expert on study circles met with CCCs members of Mymensingh, Muktagacha, Nalitabari and Madhupur on 2nd Macrh, 2002. The meeting was held in Mymensingh and in Madhupur. Mr. Bosse Bergnehr talked about study circle with the CCCs members.

28 February 2002

FIELD TEST OF REPORT CARD TRAINING MANUAL

TIB has developed a training manual on report card methodology. To test the effectiveness of the manual, TIB and ActionAid Bangladesh jointly organized a five-days training on "Report Card Methodology" which was held on 15-19 February 2002 at Actionaid Chittagong office. TIB Research Officer Md. Sydur Rahman Molla facilitated the training. The participants came from ActionAid Chittagong office, Noakhali Rural Development Society (NRDS), Bangladesh Institute of Theatre and Arts (BITA), Young Power in Social Action (YPSA), Concerned Women for Family Development (CWFD), Green Hill. (different local organizations of Chittagong region.

FACT-FINDING REPORT ON THE BUREAU OF ANTI-CORRUPTION AND PROPOSED STRUCTURE ON THE INDEPENDENT ANTI-CORRUPTION COMMISSION (IACC)

TIB held a discussion meeting on the Fact-Finding report of the present Bureau of Anti-Corruption and on a proposed structure for an Independent Anti-Corruption Commission (IACC) on February 20 2002 at Janakallyan Bhaban Uposhohor, in Sylhet. TIB Executive Director Manzoor Hasan moderated the round table discussion. Md. M. Anwarul Amin, Research Associate of TIB presented the results of the Fact-Finding Report and the structure of the proposed IACC. The Speakers at the round table were politicians, journalists, NGO activists, lawyers, professors and govt. officers.

15 February 2002

ADVOCACY PROGRAM ON REPORT CARD ON PRIMARY EDUCATION

The Nalitabari CCC members conducted an advocacy programme on the report card on primary education on 11 February 2002. More than one hundred headmasters of different primary schools of Nalitabari were present at the meeting. The Nalitabari CCC convener M A Hakam Hira described the activities of TI, TIB and CCCs and presented the findings of the report card survey on primary education. Upazilla Education Officer of Nalitabari appreciated the report card survey on primary education. Some headmasters criticized the findings of the report card survey. TIB Research Officer Md. Sydur Rahman Molla and the Programme Officer answered questions regarding the survey. Other CCC members of Nalitabari also spoke in the meeting.

FACT-FINDING REPORT ON THE BUREAU OF ANTI-CORRUPTION AND PROPOSED STRUCTURE ON THE INDEPENDENT ANTI-CORRUPTION COMMISSION (IACC)

TIB held a discussion meeting on the Fact-Finding Report on the present Bureau of Anti-Corruption and on a proposed structure for an Independent Anti-Corruption Commission (IACC) on 10 February 2002 at Regional Public Administration Training Centre in Rajshahi. TIB Executive Director Manzoor Hasan moderated the round-table discussion. Md. M. Anwarul Amin, Research Associate of TIB, presented the results of the Fact-Finding Report and the structure of the proposed IACC. The speakers at the round table were politicians, journalists, NGO activists, lawyers, professors and government officers.

CLOSED DOOR MEETING

TIB arranged a Closed Door Meeting on the proposed IACC at TIB Office on 13 February 2002 which followed Chatham House Rules.

30 January 2002

MEETING WITH EDUCATION MINISTER

TIB Executive Director Manzoor Hasan and Program Officer Ekram Hossain met with the Education Minister, Dr. Osman Farooq, on 16th January 2002 at the residence of the minister. They talked about the report card on primary education. TIB officials invited the minister to be the chief guest for a seminar. They also handed over the report card on primary education.

ADVOCACY PROGRAM ON REPORT CARD ON PRIMARY EDUCATION

The Mymensingh CCC members met with the District Education Officer (DEO) on 17th January 2002. Mymensingh CCC members Mr. Md. Momtaz Uddin, Mr. Pradeep Chakrabarty, Mr. Sharifuzzaman Parag, Mymensingh Office Secretary Ms. Sazia Afreen, and Field Assistant Karuna Kishor Chakrabarty were present at the advocacy meeting. Mr. Pradeep Chakrabarty presented the findings of the report card survey on primary education. Sheikh Afzal Ali, District Education Officer of Mymensingh, appreciated the initiatives taken by TIB and CCC. He also disagreed with some findings of the survey. CCC members asked the education officer to co-operate with TIB to curb corruption from the education sector.

TRAINING ON ADVOCACY

TIB organized a training on advocacy for its CCC members on 17 -19 January, 2002 at BRAC Training and Research Centre (TARC), Bogra. A number of CCC members and volunteers from Madhupur participated in the training. Mr. Naresh Madhu, freelance trainer, conducted the training program. TIB Executive Director Mr. Manzoor Hasan and training consultant Abu Zayed Mohammad were the resource persons for the training.

MOBILE THEATRE ON CORRUPTION

Three mobile theatre shows were held in Nalitabari, Sherpur, on 24th January 2002. More than five hundred audiences were present at each of the show.

15 January 2002

Focus Group Discussion on Report Card Training Manual

TIB prepared a training manual on the methodology of the report card and organized a focus group discussion (FGD) on the developed manual on 10th January, 2002 at Hotel Lake Castle Ltd. in Dhaka. The FGD was moderated by TIB Research Officer Md. Sydur Rahman Molla. Dr. Sanual Mostafa, Executive Director of Network for Research and Training (NRT), Ms. Sonia Sharif, Senior Trainer of Bangladesh Institute of Management (BIM), Mr. Sisir Dutta, the Executive Director of Bangladesh Institute of Theatre Arts (BITA), Mr. Shihab Uddin, Regional Coordinator, ActionAid Bangladesh, Md. Masiul Hassan, Policy Analyst, ActionAid Bangladesh, Md. Mahboob Morshed, Programme Officer, DemocracyWatch, Md. Zakaria, Regional Manager, ActionAid Bangladesh, Md. Omar Kaiser, Staff Correspondent, The Daily Bhorer Kagoj, attended the FGD and discussed the content of the manual.

Advocacy Program on Report Card on Primary Education

The Madhupur CCC members conducted two advocacy
programmes on the report card on primary education on
12th January, 2002. One was held in Madhupur Government
Model School and another was held at the office of Dhanbari
Teachers Association. In Madhupur, over one hundred
headmasters and in Dhabari over sixty headmasters of
different primary schools were present at the meeting.
The Madhupur CCC convener Professor Golam Samdhani
described the activities of TI, TIB and CCCs. TIB Programme
Officer Mr. Ekram Hossain presented the findings of the report
card survey on primary education. Ms. Malbika Bhoumik,
Upazilla Education Officer of Madhupur, criticised the report
card survey on primary education. She also asked some questions regarding the survey. TIB Research Officer Md. Sydur Rahman Molla answered the questions regarding the survey. TIB officials asked the education officer to help TIB curb corruption from the education sector. Md. Arifur Rahman, Secretary of Madhupur CCC also spoke on the occasion.

Fact-Finding report on the Bureau of Anti-Corruption and Proposed structure on the Independent Anti-Corruption Commission (IACC)

TIB held a round table discussion on the Fact-Finding report of
the present Bureau of Anti-Corruption and on a proposed structure for an Independent Anti-Corruption Commission (IACC) on 14th January, 2002 at Chittaging auditorium. Professor M. Yeahia Akhter, Professor of Chittagong University moderated the round table discussion. TIB Research Associate Md. M. Anwarul Amin presented the results of the Fact-Finding Report and TIB Director Zia Haider Rahman presented the structure of the proposed IACC. Executive Director Mr. Manzoor Hasan also spoke at the round table discussion.

Speakers at the round table were Farid Ahmad Chowdhury,
President of Chittagong Chambers of Commerce and Industries (CCCI), Md. Idris President of Chittagong Union of Journalists,
Dr. Moinul Islam, President of Bangladesh Economic Association and others.More than sixty participants from different segments of the society were present.

30 December 2001

Fact-Finding report on the Bureau of Anti-Corruption and Proposed structure on the Independent Anti-Corruption Commission (IACC)

TIB held a round-table discussion on the Fact-Finding report on the present Bureau of Anti-Corruption and on a proposed structure for an Independent Anti-Corruption Commission (IACC) on December 30, 2001 at CIRDAP auditorium. Professor Khan Sarwar Murshid, Chairman, Board of Trustees of TIB, moderated the round- table discussion. Professor Muzaffar Ahmad presented the results of the Fact-Finding Report and Zia Haider Rahman presented the structure of the proposed IACC.

Speakers from both the government and the opposition political parties and members of civil society reached a consensus that society had been plagued by corruption even at the grass-roots level. The discussants raised questions regarding TIB's proposed structure for an IACC and recommended some changes.

Speaking at the round-table were Dr. Kamal Hossain, Dr Atiur Rahman, M. Hafizuddin Khan, Khondker Delwar Hossain MP, Abdus Shaheed MP, SM Shahjahan, SM Akram, GM Kader MP, Mujibul Huq, Enayetullah Khan, Sudhangshu Shekher Halder, Dr. AIM Mohsin, Dr Syed Anwar Hossain, Faruk Khan MP, Dr. Tarek Shamsur Rahman, Prof Ali Ashraf, Bodiuzzaman, Dr. Asif Nazrul and ABM Kamal Uddin.

All of the national dailies published the proceedings of the round-table on the following day (December 31, 2001). Ekushey Television (ETV), the first private TV Channel in Bangladesh, telecasted the round-table with the gist of the discussion on that day (30th December). BBC World Service also broadcasted the round table discussion on that day.

Training on Advocacy

TIB organized a training on advocacy for its CCCs members on 26-28 December, 2001 at Bangladesh Academy for Rural Development (BARD), Comilla. A number of CCCs members and volunteers from Muktagacha and Nalitabari participated in the training. Nares Madhu, trainer from PRIP Trust was the training coordinator. Abu Zayeed Mohammad, consultant of TIB, Md. Sydur Rahman Molla, Research Officer, and Ekram Hossain of TIB were the resource persons for the training.

Reception for New Parliament Member

The Madhupur CCC gave a reception to the newly elected Member of Parliament Dr. Abdur Razzak of Awami league from Madhupur-Dhanbari constituency on December 29, 2001 at Madhupur CCC ofice. Professor Golum Samdani presided over the meeting. TIB Programme Officer Ekram Hossain, Upazilla Awami league president Shafi Uddin Mani, CCC member Gias Uddin Ahmad, Dr. Farhadul Alam Mani spoke at the meeting. Dr. Abdur Razzak assured all that he would work to curb corruption and establish transparency in the state and in society.

15 December 2001

Meeting with Education officials
The CCC members of Kishorganj met with the Additional Deputy
Commissioner District and Education Officer of Kishorganj, the
Upazilla Nirbahi Officer and the Upazilla Education Officer of Kishorganj Sadar on December 9, 2001. The CCC members presented the findings of the report card survey on primary education at the meeting. The government officers made a number of suggestions to curb corruption from primary education.

Regional Forum on Effective Legislative Oversight
The Executive Director Mr. Manzoor Hasan, Research Associate
Mr. Anwarul Amin and Research Assistant Mr. Abdul Alim of TIB
participated at the Regional Forum on Effective Legislative
Oversight held on December 10-11, 2001 in Manila, Philippines.

30 November 2001

Field Test of Report Card Training Manual

TIB has developed a training manual on report cards. To test the effectiveness of the manual, TIB organized a three-day training on "Report Card Methodology" which was held on 20-22 November 2001 at Training and Resource Center (TARC) of BRAC in Madhupur. The Research Officer and Programme Officer of TIB facilitated the training. The participants were the CCC Secretaries, Field Assistants and Volunteers of TIB.

Focus Group Discussion on "Nature and Forms of Independent Commission on Anti-Corruption"

TIB organized a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) on the nature and forms of the proposed Independent Commission on Anti-Corruption. The FGD was facilitated by the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of TIB, Professor Khan Sarwar Murshid. M. Hafizuddin Khan and Abdul Muyeed Chowdhury, both of whom were former advisers of the Caretaker Government, Mr. Badiuzzaman Khan, the former Director General of the Bureau of Anti-Corruption, Professor Mohammad Mohabbat Khan, Member of the Public Service Commission, Mr. Momenul Haque, the former Director of Bureau of Anti-Corruption, Mr. Sultan Z Khan, former Chairman of the Security and Exchange Commission took part in the FGD. All of the participants made suggestions about the proposed Independent Commission on Anti-Corruption.

Third Annual Conference of Asian Development Bank (ADB)/ Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Anti-Corruption Initiative for Asia Pacific.

The Executive Director of TIB, Manzoor Hasan, participated in the Third Annual Conference of ADB/OECD Anti-Corruption Initiative for Asia Pacific, which was held on November 28-30 2001 in Tokyo, Japan. He chaired the afternoon plenary session of 29th November 2001. More than 150 people participated in the meeting, including representatives of governments, business, media, international agencies and non-government organizations. Seventeen Asian and Pacific governments endorsed a regional action plan to fight corruption. The Bangladesh Government endorsed the action plan.

15 November 2001

Mobile Theatre on Corruption

The premier show of the TIB theatre group was held in Mymensing on 4th November 2001. The name of the play is "Bagher Goppa (The story of Tiger)". Prof. Jatin Sarker, a renowned writer and CCC member, was present as the chief guest. The Executive Director of TIB was also present on the occasion. More than two hundred participants enjoyed the theatre. Three mobile theatre shows were held in Madhupur on 12th November, two shows were held in Kishorganj on 13th November, and one show was held in Nandail of Mymensingh, also on 13th November 2001.

Need Assessment Study for making a manual on Effective Lobbying and Advocacy

A need assessment study was conducted in Madhupur, Tangail on 9th November 2001 by TIB. Dr. Sanual Mostafa, Executive Director of Network for Research and Training (NRT), and Naresh Madhu, Trainer of PRIP Trust, conducted the study. Most of the CCC members of Madhupur were present.

Open discussion on Curbing corruption and good governance in Chittagong and the role of TIB

TIB formed a TIB's Friends group in Chittagong. The Friends group conducted an open discussion in Chittagong at Public Administration Training Center on 13th November 2001. The Executive Director of TIB was present as the chief guest. Dr. Yeahea Akter, Professor of Chittagong University, conducted the open discussion. Imam Uddin, Public Relation and Outreach Officer of TIB, presented a paper entitled "Curbing corruption, good governance and the role of civil society". A number of professors, businessmen and journalists took part in the discussion. Around fifty participants from different segments of society participated.

30 October 2001

Parliament Watch
TIB started a new project named Parliament Watch from 28th October 2001 to monitor the various activities of the Parliament, including the Parliamentary Committees, as supreme 'watchdog body'. TIB would like to monitor the Speaker's role, activities of Parliamentary Committees, passing bills, presence and role of MPs among other things. A report will be released after each of the session of the parliament.

15 October 2001

Workshop on People's Theatre

TIB, with the assistance of Mymensingh CCC, formed a 18-member theatre group. TIB has recruited a director and script-maker, Jayprokash Sarkar, for the theatre group. Ms. Mahbuba Hoque Kumkum, a member of Dhaka Padatik, a renowned theatre group, acted as the moderator of the three-day workshop, which was held in Mymensingh from 5th October 2001. All the 18 actors participated in the workshop. Mr. Kamal Hossain Mintu, a member of TIB, assisted the moderator. During the first day of the workshop Professor Jatin Sarker and Sharifuzzaman Parag, members of Mymensingh CCC, were present.

During the workshop the following activities were undertaken:
physical and concentration exercises, meditation, acting and
character development, improvisation and script development.
After the completion of the workshop a further 15 days were spent on script and acting development. The first formal performance will be held on 4th November 2001 in Mymensingh before an invited audience.

Transparency International AGM and 10th International
Anti-Corruption Conference

The Annual General Meeting of Transparency International took place on 6th October 2001 in Prague, Czech Republic. The unofficial inauguration took place on 5th October with the
presentation of the Global Corruption Report 2001 (edited by
Robin Hodess, with Jessie Banfield and Toby Wolfe) by Dr. Peter Eigen, Chairman of Transparency International at the welcome dinner. The 314-page report is the first such report to be published by TI and it is hoped to become an annual event. The report contains in-depth study of such issues as Corruption in Party Financing: the case for global standards, Implementing the Anti-Bribery Convention: an update from the OECD, Money Laundering: private banking becomes less private, Transparency in the international diamond trade and many more together with country analysis http://www.globalcorruptionreport.org)

The one-day annual general meeting had three plenary sessions: the first chaired by Dr. Kamal Hossain as the chairman of the Advisory Council of TI. The session was addressed by Marie Bohata of TI-Czech Republic, who welcomed the TI chapters to the beautiful city of Prague, Dr. Peter Eigen and Dr. Wesley Cragg of TI-Canada, and their topics were the achievements and tasks of TI and a progress report of TI's code of ethics, respectively. The second plenary session was chaired by Tunku Abdul Aziz, one of the vice chairmen of TI. The session was addressed by Dr. Davendra Raj Panday, who spoke on the process and criteria for the accreditation renewal, Miguel Schloss, who spoke on the TI's tool-kit. Jeremy Pope and Manzoor Hasan spoke on CPI 2001.

After lunch the AGM broke up into various workshops, covering such topics as TI's Global Corruption Report, the Corruption Fighters' tool-kit, TI's code of ethics, the new accreditation process, the corruption online research and information system and TI's monitoring tools. The final plenary session was the formal proceeding of the AGM made up of the active members of TI.

As in 1999 and other years TI combined its AGM with the holding of the two-yearly International Anti-Corruption Conference (IACC), which took place from 7th to 11th October. Not unlike the previous IACCs the conference had a wide range of workshops (114 altogether) under the general 'streams' such as: public sector, law enforcement, private sector, civil society, education, international monitoring, natural resources, financial services industry, regional, creative workshops, among others. Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) made presentation in the local government workshop ('Countering corruption in local government services') by way of presenting the case-study of the activities of the Committee of Concerned Citizens. Manzoor Hasan chaired the workshop (no.68) 'Indicators to monitor the performance of institutions: What are they and what can they tell us?' and presented Dr. Gopakumar Krishan's paper 'Increasing Information Access to Improve Political Accountability and Participation: Mapping Future Actions in Asia Pacific".

Other than the standard workshops the other highlights of the
conference were the creative workshops (which ran parallel on 10 different topics, and attendance was limited to 20) and the Art Programme. The conference attracted 1300 participants and it was an opportunity for TIB to network with individuals from different parts of the world. The other Bangladeshis who attended the conference were Dr. Kamal Hossain (Chairman of TI's Advisory Council), Ms. Tahmina Rahman, a consultant residing in the UK and working on governance issues and familiar with TIB activities, and Mr. Abdul Muktadir, residing in the UK, and a well-wisher of TIB

30 September 2001

"Choose the right candidate Programme"

The CCC members of Mymensingh sadar, Muktagacha and Madhupur prepared three report cards on the contesting candidates for the national general election for these three areas. The main objective of this programme is to disseminate information about the contesting candidates among the voters. As if, the voters could choose the right candidate.

In this programme, the CCC members collected basic information about the contesting candidates. The CCC published three leaflets for three areas containing this information and disseminated the leaflets among the voters. The CCC also arranged launching ceremony of this leaflet in these three areas. This launching ceremony was arranged in Madhupur and Mymensingh on 22nd September and in Muktagtacha on 25th September, 2001.

In Mymensingh and Madhupur, most of the contesting candidates of major political parties were present in the occasion. Representatives from different segment of the society were present. The contesting candidates gave speech on the occasion. They appreciated the initiatives by the CCC members. In Muktagacha, a lot of people from segments of the society were present. In Mymensingh and Muktagacha, the CCC convenor presided over the meeting. In Madhupur, the Upazilla Nirbahi Officer presided over the meeting. In Kishorganj and Nalitabari, the CCC members also tried to do report card. But, due to the lack of cooperation from some candidates, it was not possible to do report card.

Training of 'Report card survey'

Jagrata Juba Sanga (JJS), a local NGO in South West of Bangladesh, organized a three-days training on 'Report card survey' in Khulna for mid-level managers. The training was held from 25 to 27 September, 2001. The Research Officer of TIB was the trainer.

15 September 2001

Report card on "Choose the Right Candidate"

The CCC members of Mymensingh sadar, Muktagacha, Nalitabari, Kishorganj sadar and Madhupur decided to prepare a report card on the contesting candidates for the upcoming general election. The main objective of this programme is to disseminate information about the contesting candidates among the voters to enable them to choose the right candidate. In this programme, the CCC members are collecting basic information about the contesting candidates. They will then publish a leaflet, which will be based on the information given the candidates. The CCCs are also planning to invite the contesting candidates to the launching of the leaflets, where the candidates and voters can exchange further information.

Roundtable Discussion on the 'Role of the Opposition'

National Democratic Institute (NDI) and the Governance Coalition arranged a roundtable discussion on the 'Role of the Opposition' on 2nd September 2001 at a hotel in Sylhet. The roundtable discussion was co-chaired by Manzoor Hasan, the chairperson of Governance Coalition and Mr. Bruce Chamberlian, the former Speaker of the Australian Parliament. A number of participants from different political parties and civil society organizations were present.

Debate on the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI), 2001

An electronic debate on the CPI, 2001 has taken place. The proceedings are available on TIB's website.

Theatre Group

TIB is forming a theatre group. The main objective of the theatre group would be raise awareness of corruption issues and its effect on our society. The group will start its activities after the general elections.

30 August 2001

Launching of the Report card on Primary Education in Mymensingh

The Committee of Concerned Citizens (CCC) of Mymensingh sadar organized a press conference to launch the report card on primary education under the title Corruption in Primary Education: The Scenario of Mymensingh. The press conference was held on 25th August 2001 at the Mymensingh press club, and was chaired by Professor Shamsul Islam (Convener, Mymensingh CCC). Other members of the CCC attended the press conference. A number of national and local newspapers published the findings of the survey.

Staff Orientation Course

TIB organized a two-days staff orientation course for the CCC Office Secretaries and field assistants, which was held on 16-17 August 2001 at the BRAC training centre, Mymensingh. The Research Officer of TIB was the coordinator of the course. The Executive Director, staff and consultants of TIB also spoke on the occasion.

Meeting with Director General of Press Institute of Bangladesh (PIB)

The Executive Director of TIB met with Dr. Abdus Salam, DG of PIB on 27th August 2001. He informed the DG about TIB's ongoing activities and also discussed the impact of CPI, 2001.

Policy Brief on "Governance"

The Executive Director of TIB and the Secretary General of FEMA jointly presented the CPD Task Force report on governance on 22nd August 2001 at CIRDAP. Former Chief Election Commissioner Mohammad Abu Hena was present as the chief guest while CPD Chairman Professor Rehman Sobhan chaired the session with Professor Khan Sarwar Murshid, Chairman, Board of Trustees of TIB and former Foreign Secretary Abul Ahsan co-chairing the session. Former CEC gave his views on the recent changes of the electoral rules. All the reports are available on CPD's website: www.cpd-bangladesh.org

Mobile theatre on corruption in primary education

TIB has organized a mobile theatre group with the help of DemocracyWatch in Mymensingh. The name of the mobile theatre is "Barnamala" (Collection of alphabets). Two shows of the mobile theatre were held on 30th August in Muktagacha, Mymensingh. More than five hundred spectators were present during the show. Another two shows were held on 31st August in Mymensingh. One show was postponed due to political disturbance.

15 August 2001

Seminar on "The Role of Civil Society in Transparent
Election Process and Democracy"

The committee of Concerned Citizens (CCC) of Muktagacha
of TIB organized a seminar entitled "The Role of Civil Society in Transparent Election Process and Democracy" on 4th August 2001 at Poura Pathagar Milanayatan, Muktagacha, Mymensingh. Professor Muzaffer Ahmad, Member of TIB Board of Trustees attended the seminar as the chief guest while Advocate Shamsul Haque convenor of Muktagacha CCC presided over the seminar. Advocate Anisur Rahman Khan, a CCC member of Mymensingh Sadar was present as the special guest. Mr. Khondoker Muzahidul Haque, Lecturer of A. M. College presented a paper on "Free, Fair and Transparent Election: Pre-condition of Democracy", Mr. Zulfiker Rafique Ranju, Lecturer of Phulpur Degree College, Mymensingh presented another paper on "The Role of Civil Society in Preserving Civil Rights and Establishment of Democracy". More than two hundred people from different segments of the society were present at the seminar.

Mr. Mahbubur Rahman Bulbul conducted the seminar. There was a discussion panel of four at the seminar, comprising of Ms Selina Begum, Advocate Sharafuddin Ahmad (both are the CCC members of Muktagacha), Mr. Sawpan Kumar Das, Principal Muktagacha College, and Jay Prakash Sarker, scriptwriter.

Lecture in PATC

The Executive Director addressed a session titled "Transparency in Administration" for Joint Secretaries and other equivalent officers of Bangladesh Government at the 36th Senior Staff Course in Bangladesh Public Administration Centre on 14th August, 2001. The participants demanded another session on this issue.

Meeting with the Director General of NGO Affairs Bureau

Executive Director of TIB Manzoor Hasan met with the Director General of NGO Affairs Bureau. He informed the DG about the on-going activities of TIB.

30 July 2001

The committee of Concerned Citizens (CCC) of Kishorganj sadar of TIB organized a seminar entitled "Moral Values and Civil Society to Preserve Civil Rights" on 21st July, 2001 at Kishorganj Press Club. Professor Rafiqur Rahman Chowdhury convenor of Kishorganj CCC presented a paper on "Corruption and Conception of Life", while Professor Sarif Raza, a CCC member of Kishorganj presented another on "Role of the Civil Society to Preserve Civil Rights". Executive Director of TIB attended the seminar as the chief guest while Professor Rafiqur Rahman Chowdhury convenor of Kishorganj CCC presided over the seminar. Advocate Ashoke Sarker conducted the seminar. There was a discussion panel of five at the seminar, comprising of Ms Nazmun Nahar Molly Mr. Shafiqul Islam, both are the CCC members of Kishorganj, Mr. Shaj Azizur Hoque, lawyer and journalist, Mr. Bhupendra Bhoumik Dolon, lawyer and Nasir Uddin Faruqui, lawyer. More than hundred and fifty people from different segments of the society were present. Representatives from DFID were present in the seminar.

Professor Rafiqur Rahman Chowdhury in his paper said, "It is inspired by the romantic imagination of making an Island of Integrity. I am not sure whether it will be possible to build up an Island of Integrity. Even if it were possible, I wonder if it would be able to resist the turbulent waves of the sea of corruption all around. What we need in these circumstances is to create a sea of virulent hatred for corruption. The violent waves of the sea of hatred can wash corruption away from our land."

A number of national and local dailies covered the seminar the following day (22 July).

Seminar on "Transparency in Public Administration and Democracy"

The committee of Concerned Citizens (CCC) of Madhupur of TIB organized a seminar entitled "Transparency in Public Administration and Democracy"on 28th July, 2001 at Upazilla Training and Development centre, Madhupur. Professor Golum Samdani convenor of Madhupur CCC presented a paper on "The Role of Citizens, Civil Society and Political Parties in a Transparent Election Process", while Professor Zoynal Abedin a CCC member of Madhupur presented another on "Forest, Afforestation and Corruption: Perspective Madhupur". The Chief guest Samson H. Chowdhury, a Trustee member of TIB was not present in the seminar. Professor Dizen Sharma, a renowned writer of environment was present as the special guest. Executive Director of TIB attended the seminar. Professor Golum Samdani convenor of Madhupur CCC presided over the seminar while Ekram Hossain, Programme Officer of TIB conducted the seminar. There was a discussion panel of seven at the seminar, comprising of General Secretary of Tangail press club, first class magistrate of Madhupur, Assistant Headmaster of Rani Vabani Pilot High School, Head Master of Karpose Kristi High School, Madhupur, Principal of Madhupur College, General Secretary of Bangladesh Awami League of Madhupur and a forest officer. More than hundred and fifty people from different segments of the society were present.

DFID Consultants visited TIB and CCCs areas

A four-member consultants team of DFID, London visited TIB and CCCs areas from 16th July to 30th July 2001. They are Colin Roth consultant of DFID, London, David Watt, lecturer of the University of Liverpool, Peter Davis and Tahmina Rahman, consultant of DFID, London. The consultants visited all of the CCCs areas. They met with the CCC members of six areas. They talked with other people of the CCC areas. They also talked with the Board of Trustees and staff of TIB. The consultants will give suggestions on the project 'Making Waves'.

15 July 2001

Launching of the Report card on Primary Education

The Committee of Concerned Citizens of Nalitabrari organized a press conference in occassion of report card release on primary education titled: Corruption in Primary Education: The Scenario of Nalitabari". The press conference was held on 1st July, 2001 in Sherpur press club. The Committee of Concerned Citizens of Kishorganj sadar organized a press conference to release the report card on primary education titled: Corruption in Primary Education: The Scenario of Kishoreganj sadar" on 1st July, 2001 in Kishorganj press club. The Committee of Concerned Citizens of Jamalpur sadar organized a press conference to release the report card on primary education titled: Corruption in Primary Education: The Scenario of Jamalpur sadar" on 1st July, 2001 in Jamalpur public library auditorium. The Committee of Concerned Citizens of Muktagacha organized a press conference to release the report card on primary education titled: Corruption in Primary Education: The Scenario of Muktagacha" on 1st July, 2001 in Muktagacha public library auditorium. The CCC of Madhupur also organized a press conference to release the report card on primary education titled: Corruption in Primary Education: The Scenario of Madhupur" on 1st July, 2001 in Tangail press club. A number of national and local newspapers published the findings of the survey. After releasing the report the Educational Office of Muktagacha decided to file a case against TIB. The CCCs members of these five areas decided to meet with the education officials, teachers' union, and dealer of Food for Education programme and would inform the corruption scenario of their areas.

The statement of the Chairman of TIB on CPI 2001

The Chairman of Board of Trustee of TIB gave a statement regarding the CPI 2001 on 3rd July, 2001. It was published in most of the national dailies on 4th and 5th July 2001 (see below).

Mobile theatre on corruption in primary education

Two mobile theatre shows were held on 7th July, 2001 in Muktagacha of Mymensingh. More than two hundred audiences were present during the show.

Meeting between the CCCs members and Executive Director

The Executive Director met with the CCC members of six areas in greater Mymensingh between 12 to 13 July, 2001 in order to get their reaction on the CPI 2001.

30 June 2001

Regional Meeting of South Asian TI Chapters

Regional meeting of South Asian TI Chapter was held between 16-18 June, 2001 in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Twenty-four Participants from all national TI chapters of South Asia and two participants from TI Secretariat were present in the regional meeting. TI Sri Lanka chaired the first day of the regional meeting. At the first session of the first day Dr. Devendra Raj Panday, Board Member of TI discussed on 'Perspective of Making an Impact in South Asia', Ms. Margit van Ham, Executive Director of TI discussed on 'Update on Global efforts and Strategic Discussions-Credibility, Transparency and Accountability of the Movement' and Mr. Manzoor Hasan, Executive Director of TI-Bangladesh discussed about the ongoing joint regional survey project. At the first session, various chapters of South Asia described their ongoing activities. At the second session discussion was held on "Looking Ahead". In this session the participants discussed on 'Priority areas for action joint projects', 'Capacity building of National Chapters' 'Mutual assistance in the region: Increasing and improving inter- regional support of the Chapters' and 'The credibility and accountability of TI'. Dr. Devendra Raj Pandey chaired the second day of the regional meeting. In the second day the discussion was held on the regional working plan. In the third day the meeting was held on the regional survey.

Launching of Corruption Perception Index, 2001

In Bangladesh, the CPI was released at a press conference at the Dhaka Reporters' Unity Auditorium on 27th June, 2001. Chairman of the Trustee Board of Transparency International Bangladesh professor Khan Sarwar Murshid, Member Professor Muzaffar Ahmad and Executive Director Manzoor Hasan were present at the press conference and explained the newly released CPI by the Berlin based headquarters of the global anti-corruption organization, Transparency International. The Bangladesh Government rejected the TI report saying it had no basis and is highly motivated. The following day (28th June, 2001) all of the national dailies made their lead stories on the CPI report.

Anti-Corruption procession and Inaugural Ceremony of the CCC office of Nalitabari

Inaugural ceremony of the CCC office of Nalitabari, Sherpur was held in Nalitabari on 29th June, 2001. Professor Muzzafar Ahmad, Member of the Trustee Board of TIB was present as the chief guest. The CCC of Nalitabari also organized an anti-corruption procession on the same day. In a brief address, Prof. Muzaffar Ahmaed said, "We must resist corruption and to accomplish this, we must build social resistance and make our citizens conscious of who are behind corrupt activities."

Mobile theatre on corruption in primary education

TIB organized a mobile theatre group with the help of DemocracyWatch in Mymensingh. The name of the mobile theatre is "Barnamala". Two shows of the mobile theatre were held on 29th June, 2001 in Nalitabari, Sherpur. More than thousand audiences were present during the shows.

15 June 2001

Committee of Concerned Citizens (CCC) in Kishorgan sadar thana

TIB formed its last and sixth CCC in Kishorgan sadar thana on 9th June, 2001. The committee is made up of fifteen members. Mr. Rafiqur Rahman Chowdhury, a prominent personality of the area and retired professor of the Department of English at a local government college, was unanimously selected as convenor of the committee. The other members are drawn from different professions like professor, lawyer, teacher, NGO activist, businessman, retired government officer and women activist.

30 May 2001

Transparency International Bangladesh Seminar on "The role of civil society in curbing corruption and Transparency International Bangladesh"

The Committee of Concerned Citizens (CCC) of Mymensingh sadar of TIB organized a seminar entitled "The role of civil society in curbing corruption and Transparency International Bangladesh" on 26th May 2001 at Mymensingh district council auditorium. Professor Muzaffer Ahmad of Dhaka University presented a paper on " Corruption in Bangladesh and Good Governance", while Professor Jatin Sarkar presented another on "Corruption: Society: Socio-cultural Movement". Chairman of TIB Board of Trustees Professor Khan Sarwar Murshid attended the seminar as the chief guest while Shamsul Islam, convenor of the CCC, presided over the seminar. Former Comptroller and Auditor General (C & AG) M. Hafizuddin Khan attended the programme as a special guest. Representatives of different professional groups in the locality, a number of diplomatic missions in Dhaka and the district administration also took part in the seminar.

Expressing concern over the existing degree of corruption in the society, Prof. Murshid said," There is no easy way to overcome this situation unless we are honest and prepared to sacrifice." He stressed the need for concerted movement in curbing corruption.

Prof. Jatin Sarker in his paper said, "We have not been able to be free ourselves from the corruption of colonial reign. We can not expect a sound and corruption-free society unless our politics is sound and corruption-free," he observed.

Referring to different studies conducted by the TIB, Prof. Muzzafer Ahmad said lack of accountability, weak administration, no incentive for honesty and political influence on administration are responsible for the rise in corruption.

Reviewing his career of 25 years as a government servant, the former C & AG Hafizuddin Khan said corruption is gradually increasing. He further stated, " The society still has some good people who are yet to give in to corruption. Otherwise, the consequences of corruption would have been far worse.

There was a discussion panel of five at the seminar, comprising of Prof. Khandakar Mujahidul Haq and Prof. Sumita Naha, both from Anandamohan College, Prof. M Asrafuzzaman Selim of Agriculture University, Taleya Rehman of Democracywatch and Advocate Anisur Rahman Khan.

A number of national and local dailies covered the seminar the following day (17th May).

Induction of the Committee of Concerned Citizens (CCC) of Nalitabari of Sherpur

TIB arranged an induction session for the members of the CCC on 18th May 2001 at Nalitabari of Sherpur. Most of the CCC members of Nalitabari were present in the occasion.

Global Forum on Fighting Corruption and Safeguarding Integrity II

The Global Forum II on Fighting Corruption and Safeguarding Integrity took place at The Hague, the Netherlands between 28-31 May, 2001. The Global Forum I took place in 1999 in Washington, USA under the chairmanship of the then Vice President Al Gore. The Global Forum II, unlike its predecessor, was attended by non-governmental organizations together with representatives from over a hundred countries.

The conference was divided into five major workshops on the following subjects: 1. Integrity and Governance 2. Law Enforcement 3. Customs 4.Corruption Transition and Development and 5. Government and the Business Sector. Each workshop was further divided into sub-sessions.

Manzoor Hasan, the Executive Director of TIB joined the Global Forum II on Fighting Corruption and Safeguarding Integrity. He prepared the report on the session entitled 'Anti-Corruption Programmes in Local Government'

15 May 2001

The Executive Director addressed a session titled "Transparency in Administration" for Joint Secretaries and other equivalent officers of Bangladesh Government at the 35th Senior Staff Course in Bangladesh Public Administration Centre on 2nd May 2001.

(2) Meeting with World Bank, Public Administration Reform Commission and International Monetary Fund

TIB representatives separately met with the Country Director of the World Bank, Resident representative of the International Monetary Fund and the Chairman of Public Administration Reform Commission on 3rd May to discuss the ongoing activities of TIB. During the meeting TIB representatives presented their two most recent publications namely "Corruption Database report" and "Report Card on the Crisis over Publications and Distribution of Secondary School Books". The activities of TIB were much appreciated.

(3) Resident Representative of UNDP visits TIB office

Resident Representative of United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) visited TIB office and met with the Executive Director on 3rd May, 2001. The Executive Director informed him of TIB's ongoing activities. Resident Representative of UNDP appreciated TIB's activities.

(4) Meeting with Asian Development Bank

The Executive Director of TIB met with the Bangladesh Resident Representative of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) on 10th May, 2001. He informed him of TIB's ongoing activities and handed over recent publications namely "Corruption Database report" and "Report Card on the Crisis over Publications and Distribution of Secondary School Books". The Bangladesh Resident Representative of ADB expressed its intention to work with TIB in close collaboration..

(5) Recommendations on improved governance

Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) has undertaken a program to develop sustainable democracy by focusing the attention of the principal political parties on the issues of urgent political concerns such as improved governance. To this end, CPD has invited Transparency International Bangladesh to cite recommendations on improved governance. The recommendations have now been opened for policy debates. The result of the dialogue will then form a policy brief for the newly elected regime. It is expected that the Policy Briefs may be of practical use to a newly elected government coming to power in guiding executive action. It is expected that the policy briefs shall serve the new parliament in setting agendas for parliamentary debate through access to a body of information, analyses and policy options, which would be helpful in inspiring legislation over the life of the next parliament.

(6) Committee of Concerned Citizens (CCC) in Nalitabari, Sherpur

TIB formed their fourth CCC in Nalitabari of Sherpur district on 11th May, 2001. The committee is made up of fifteen members. M.A. Hakam Hira, local correspondent of a national daily, was selected the convenor of the committee. The committee members are drawn from different professions like professor, lawyer, teacher, religious leader, NGO activist, businessman, public representative, women activist and students.

(7) Committee of Concerned Citizens (CCC) in Madhupur, Tangail

TIB formed its fifth CCC in Madhupur of Tangail district on 12th May, 2001. The committee is made up of tweleve members. Gilum Samdani, a prominent personality of the area and Head of the Department of English at a local college, was unanimously selected as convenor of the committee. The other members are drawn from different professions like professor, lawyer, teacher, religious leader, NGO activist, businessman, public representative and women activist.

30 April 2001

TIB presented the News Scan Database report to the Director General of Bureau of Anti-corruption on Thursday 26th April 2001. TIB also attended a meeting of the Governance Coalition on Monday, 16th April 2001. Bangladesh Environmental Lawyers’ Association (BELA) hosted the meeting.

15 April 2001

The coordination meeting of the regional corruption survey was held in Dhaka from 3rd April to 5th April 2001. Mr. Nooruddin Ahmed and Mr. Mansoor Ali Shah from TI Pakistan, Mr. Pradeep Peiris from TI Sri Lanka, Mr. Ashis Thappa from TI Nepal, Mr. C M Ramakrishnan from TI India, Manzoor Hasan, Sydur Rahman Molla, Anwarul Amin and Abdul Alim from TI Bangladesh participated in the coordination meeting. Dr. Jamal Munshi facilitated the meeting. Dr. Kamal Hossain, Chairman, 'Advisory Council', Transparency International, Professor Muzaffar Ahmed, member, Trustee Board, TIB and M I Khan, Consultant, TIB took part briefly in the coordination meeting.

Second News Scan Database Report

TIB arranged a press conference on 13th April 2001 at Jatiya Press Club to release its 2nd six-month News Scan Database report. The press conference was attended by Professor Khan Sarwar Murshid, Chairman, Trustee Board, TIB, Dr. Muzaffar Ahmed, member, Trustee Board, TIB, Barrister Manzoor Hasan, Executive Director, TIB, Md. Abdul Alim, Research Assistant, TIB and Taslima Akter Hena, Assistant Information Officer, TIB. Most of the national dailies gave wide coverage of the report on the following day (26th September) (see newspaper reports). A number of popular newspapers made their lead stories with the findings of the report. Ekushey Television (ETV), the first private TV Channel in Bangladesh telecasted the press conference on the same day giving a gist of the report.

30 March 2001

TIB arranged a press conference to release its first report card on "The crisis over publication and distribution of National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB) books" on 22nd March, 2001 at Reporters Unity Club. The press conference was attended by Professor Khan Sarwar Murshid,Chairman, Trustee Board, TIB, Dr. Muzaffar Ahmed, member, Trustee Board, TIB, Barrister Manzoor Hasan, Executive Director, TIB and Md. Sydur Rahman Molla, Research Officer, TIB. Most of the national dailies gave wide coverage of this report on the following day (23rd March, 2001). The following day the report received wide coverage in most leading dailies. They are also publishing editorial on the crisis of books quoting our reports.

Investigative Journalism Awards 2000

TIB awarded seven journalists of different national dailies for their investigative reports in the year 1999 and 2000. The prize distribution ceremony was held at the VIP auditorium of the Jatiya Press Club on 29th March, 2001. The Daily Ittefaq's Staff Reporter Anwar Aldin and The Daily Star's Senior Staff Reporter Morshed Ali Khan won first prizes for reports published in Bangla and English, respectively. Justice Habibur Rahman Khan, chief guest at the ceremony, gave away prize money of TK 50,000 to each of the first prize winners. He also presented crests to all the winners. Khan Sarwar Murshed, Chairman of Trustee Board, TIB, Syed Anwar Hossain, Director General of Bangla Academy, Reaz Uddin Ahmed, Chief Editor of The Financial Express, Dr Sheikh Abdus Salam, Director General of Press Institute of Bangladesh, A.B.M Musa, noted journalist. M. Hafiz Uddin Khan, former Comptroller and Auditor General and Dr. Muzaffar Ahmed, member, Trustee Board, TIB spoke on the occasion. Most of the national dailies published the proceedings of "Investigative Journalism Awards" ceremony on the following day . (30th March, 2001).

15 March 2001

TIB formed its third Committees of Concerned Citizens (CCCs) in Jamalpur sadar upazilla on 3rd March, 2001. The committee is made up of fourteen members. Professor AYM Ekramudaula former principal of Ashek Mahmood College was selected as convenor of the committee. Other members of the committee unanimously selected the convenor. The other members are Mr. A A K Mahmudul Hasan (Dara) correspondent of Bangladesh SS, Advocate Mukhlesur Rahman Ansari, Mohammad Shahnewaj (former MP), Mr. M. Azizur Rahman, Advocate H. R. Zahid Anwar (President Jamalpur Bar Association), Professor Shahiudur Rahman Khan (former Principal of Ashek Mahmood College), Advocate Rawshan Ara Arzoo (Marina), Advocate Nazrul Islam (Dulu), Advocate Shamim Ara, Ms. Tanzina Khanam Shikha (General Secretary, Bangladesh Mahila Parishad).

28 February 2001

The Committee of Concerned Citizens (CCC) of Mymensingh arranged a press conference on 27th February 2001 to inform the press of their ongoing activities in Mymensingh. A number of journalists attended the press conference, which was covered in the following day’s newspapers.

The Daily Star, a popular national English daily, published an article by the Executive Director of TIB entitled “Judicial Independence with Accountability” on 18th February, 2001. The Financial Express, another national English daily, also published an article on TIB’s activities entitled “ TI takes lead in corruption fight” on the same day.

15 February 2001

Due to hartal (general strike) TIB had to postpone the seminar on the "Role of Civil Society in Curbing Corruption" organized by the Committee of Concerned Citizens, Mymensingh.

30 January 2001

Transparency International Bangladesh and Public Affairs Centre, Bangalore, jointly organized a five-day training programme on "Report card methodology" which was held from 15th January to 19th January 2001 in Bangalore, India. Dr. Samual Paul, Chairman Dr. Gopa Kumar, Senior Research Officer, Dr. Sita Sekhar, Senior Research Advisor, and Mr. Prasann Thatte, Research Officer, of Public Affairs Centre, Bangalore, facilitated the training. N Venkata Challam, the representative of "The Gallup Organization", Ashok Nair, Senior Research Director and Dr. Jyotsna Dikshit Nair, Associate Research Director of ORG - MARG, also delivered lectures at this training. The training was sponsored by ActionAid Bangladesh. The workshop was designed to sensitize participants to the "Report Card Approach" and expose them to cases that demonstrate the potency of 'Report Card' in advocacy strategies. Fourteen participants from different national and international NGOs and government organisations participated in this training programme.

Workshop on "Rethinking Confrontational Politics - A Reform Agenda"

Transparency International Bangladesh and Jagrata Jubo Sangha (JSS) jointly organized a workshop on "Rethinking Confrontational Politics - A Reform Agenda" in Khulna on 16th January, 2001.The workshop was sponsored by ActionAid Bangladesh. The welcome address was given by the Executive Director of TIB, write-ups were read by the Programme Officer of Grameen Trust Khandaker Sakhawat Ali and Professor Dilara Chowdhury of Jahangirnagar University. Ashraful Alam Tutu of CDP acted as the facilitator. A number of politicians, journalists, educationalists, legal experts and activists of different woman and social organizations participated in the workshop. A number of national and local dailies published the proceedings of the meeting the following day (17th January).

New Chairman of Transparency International Bangladesh

Professor Khan Sarwar Murshid has been elected as the new Chairman of TIB Board of Trustees for the next three years (2001-2003). The members of the board of trustees of TIB elected him as the Chairman at its Annual General Meeting, which was held on 22nd January 2001. His predecessor as the founding chairman was Syed Hummayan Kabir. Professor Khan Sarwar Murshid was the Chairman of the Department of English, University of Dhaka, and Vice Chancellor of Rajshahi University. He was also the ambassador of the Government of Bangladesh to Hungary and Poland and Assistant Secretary General of the Commonwealth Secretariat. Advocate Tawfique Nawaz and Aminul Haque have been elected again as the Secretary General and Treasurer, respectively.

Discussion meeting on "Social Discipline and Morality"

Transparency International Bangladesh and 'Bichayan', a quarterly magazine, jointly organized a discussion meeting on "Social Discipline and Morality" on 20th January 2001 in Dhaka. Professor Muzaffer Ahmad, the member of the board of trustee of TIB, Professor Mohabbat Khan, a member of the Public Service Commission, Bangladesh, Mr. Anu Mohammad, an economist, Dr. K.M. Mohsin, Professor of History of the University of Dhaka, Mr. Monzur ul Karim, a former Secretary of the Government of Bangladesh and the Chief Editor of Bichayan presided over the meeting. Md. Yousuf, a former Secretary of the Government of Bangladesh, and Professor M. Aminur Rahman spoke at the discussion meeting. The Executive Director of TIB and the Editor of Bichayan. Habibullah N. Karim acted as moderators. A number of national dailies published the meeting proceedings the following day (21st January).

15 January 2001

On 10th the Donor Consortium met at TIB office to discuss the future steps regarding the proposal entitled 'Making Waves'. The meeting was chaired by TIB and was attend by the Department for International Development (DFID), the Royal Danish Embassy, the Royal Netherlands Embassy, the NORADS and USAID.

TIB met with the Comptroller and Auditor General of Bangladesh on 14th January and the discussion was very fruitful and the C&AG assured future cooperation.

TIB staff has commenced a brainstorming exercise on the planning for the current year and possible changes to activities and job responsibilities.

News bulletins from July 2001

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

1997-8 Newsletters archive