Mental liberation
Our mental liberation [change of attitude towards concepts and entrenched behaviour patterns] has not taken place even after three decades since the political liberation in 1971. Poor leadership, dynasty rules, and jockeying for power.
Our social scientists should be encouraged to mount awareness campaigns on improvement of the norms in society. The vertical disparities are too great and diverse, economically, and educationally. The role of the middle class has to be recognised, and rewarded. Today only the politicians have monopolized a nuisance: 'the winner takes all'.
The elections in 2008 under the neutral caretaker government should establish new bases and foundations for enhanced multi-purpose public services, devoid of corruption, nepotism, bribery. It is not enough to play tape records on democracy, regardless of the parties in power.
The politicians do not realise that political services need a different approach in a society with the highest density of population in the world [1,000 persons per sq km]. How to fill in the numerous grey areas? The political rulers need some coaching in revealing the other side of the coin--especially when the opposition collapsed during each and every regime. We are powerless without power -- contradictory?
Why our politics is dominated by disguised business magnates and lawyers? Why the professionals in other vocations and avocations are so shy? No place in the sun? Ask the leaders.
Our politics is black-wealth oriented -- deep and wide in three dimensions. Where are the gardeners to pull up the evil roots and clinging creepers? Our agriculture is doing fine, against heavy odds, bowing to the matri bhumi. Our culture at the top of the society is bald headed [but note the high cost of cosmetics used].
Since the established leaders cannot lead, we have to pick up the bhalo manush from amongst the masses. Tentatively we are now struggling in that direction; amidst formidable odds. The elections starting in August 2008 is a harbinger of hope. We must not lose steam, or get stranded in mid-stream. But we have to remember one proverb: we get what we deserve! politics is a medium -- the message must come through.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel.
Comments