Election 2008Gazipur-5 Constituency

Milon's alleged corruption a boon for Chumki

28 December 2008, 18:00 PM

Masudul haque, Gazipur

Grand Alliance candidate Meher Afroze Chumki's chance has brighten in Gaipur-5 constituency thanks to four-party alliance candidate former lawmaker AKM Fazlul Haque Milon's alleged corruption and irregularities in last five years of the alliance rule. Father late Moyezuddin's image is also a plus point for Chumki. Moyezuddin was elected MP from this seat in 1970 and 1973. He was shot dead by miscreants while he was leading an anti-autocracy procession in Kaliganj in 1984. Talking to the voters of this area Tuesday it was gathered that though seven candidates are contesting in the seat the main fight will remain confined between Grand Alliance candidate Chumki and four party alliance's Milon. As no mentionable development took place in the area during the alliance rule people are frustrated. They said, "This time we will vote somebody who can ensure development of the area and will not indulge in corruption." Local people alleged that though no development took place during the five-year rule of BNP Dhaka Bypass road, construction of bridge without link road and lifting and selling of sand from the Shitalakkhya River are glaring examples of corruption during the period. Some 10 cases have been field against Milon on different charges including for corruption, extortion and embezzlement of relief CI sheets. On her rival Grand Alliance candidate Meher Afroze Chumki told this correspondent, "The four party alliance candidate won this seat last time. He did not do any development work in the area. He has set a record of terrorism, extortion and looting using his musclemen." Claiming herself as an honest and competent candidate Chumki said, "During the Awami League rule as a women MP elected from reserved seat I did many development work in the area. She mentioned Shahid Moyezuddin Bridge on the Shitalakkhya River as an example". AKM Fazlul Haque Milon said, "I did development work when I was a lawmaker from this constituency. I hope people will evaluate my work and elect me again." He said all the nine cases against him are conspiratorial. Milon said, "When I was a member of the parliamentary committee on communications ministry I constructed Moyezuddin Bridge."