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Two factions of Awami League armed with bamboo stick lock in a clash to take control over a polling centre at Daganbhuiyan in Feni yesterday
BANGLAR CHOKH
erly by Allahs grace, acting chief election commissioner Abdul Mobarak told reporters yesterday at the EC media centre in the capital. Mobarak claimed that the elections were more free, fair and peaceful than previous local polls. It is not a question of failure. When holding elections, some stray incidents may take place. The violence cannot be controlled beforehand, he said. About assaults on EC officials in Barisals Hizla upazila, the commissioner said the perpetrators would not be spared as the attacks were criminal offences. The responsible persons will not be spared. They will be brought to justice, Mobarak said. However, he added, the commission did not have jurisdiction in investigating criminal offences. As per a court order, the commission cannot investigate a criminal offence. The aggrieved person can file
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The flight left Kuala Lumpur for Beijing at 00:40 local time (16:40 GMT) on
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INSIDE
News
3 The law ministry may take steps this week to settle the disagreements within the prosecution team. The prosecutors, divided into two groups, are trying to protect their post and position by lobbying. 5 Only 50% of the construction of the Purbachal Link Road has been completed during 14 years.
The hosts went through a tricky situation when questions were raised earlier this year regarding the security during the tournament. With passing days the matters were solved and Bangladesh groomed itself
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Members of the Bangladesh national cricket team take part in a practice session in Dhaka yesterday
DHAKA TRIBUNE
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RAB members take part in a counter-terrorism drill at the Army Stadium ahead of the T20 World Cup in Dhaka yesterday
RAJIB DHAR
AL takes lead in third spell of polls Alhamdulillah, polls 100% peaceful, says acting CEC
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crimes and things like that, he said. Bangladesh and Malaysia have government-to-government arrangement to send workers to Kuala Lumpur, but the process is very slow as only 3,000 people could go in the last one year as per the agreement. At the convocation, President Abdul Hamid awarded six gold medalists while Education Minister Nurul Islam Nahid also spoke on the occasion. l
in Gopalganj, Bhanga in Faridpur, Dhubaira in Mymensingh and Raumari in Kurigram. In Kishorganj Sadar Upazila, the paternal cousin of Awami League General Secretary and LGRD Minister Syed Ashraful Islam was defeated by the BNP-backed contender. Like the previous two phases, the BNP-backed candidates failed to ensure a single chairman seat in Barisal and Bhola districts.
However, in Noakhali and Feni districts, the stronghold of BNP, contenders loyal to the ruling party won one and BNP-backed candidate managed to secure one. In the first two phases BNPbacked candidates won the chairman post in 98 upazilas, the Awami League 82, the Jamaat-endorsed aspirants won 20, the Jatiya party two, the PCJSS four while three goes to the United Peoples Democratic Front (UPDF). l
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Padma Bridge
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tried accordingly, Mobarak noted. He said some stray violence had occurred in some upazilas due to personal and political reasons, and the commission suspended voting in those polling centres. The commission suspended polls at 26 centres in 13 uapzilas, out of a total of 5,444 centres in 81 upazilas, the commissioner said. The affected centres included four at Kachuan and two at Hajiganj in Chandpur; three at Muktagacha in Mymens-
ingh; three at Hizla in Barisal; three at Nangolkote, one at Titash and two at Chouddagram in Comilla; three at Dagonbhuiyan in Feni; and one each at Charghat (Rajshahi), Kuliachar (Kishoreganj), Monirampur (Jessore), Kamalnagar (Laxmipur) and Bhola sadar. When asked about interference by ministers and MPs in local polls, Mobarak said the commission was concerned about the issue and took action according to the law, sparing none. When I got information that the local MP of Chandais in Chittagong was
staying in the area, I talked to him and asked him to leave the upazila in 10 minutes. The MP left the area within that time, he said. The commissioner, meanwhile, said it would take more time to hold polls without any violence, when people become more tolerant. Replying to query on why the 2008 parliamentary polls were relatively free of violence, he said, It may be that people were tolerant at that time. If people are intolerant, violence may erupt. l
tender process could not be completed within last year. We will need the amount [foreign currency] after finishing the selection of foreign contractors, he said. The minister also said state-run Agrani Bank had been taskedwith handling$2.1bn from the money market in the next five fiscal years (FY2013-14 to FY2017-18). According to the finance division, around $200m will be needed
for the current fiscal year while $700m for FY15, $600m for FY16, $500m for FY17 and $100m for FY18. The finance minister last year ruled out Russian and Chinese proposals to construct Padma Bridge. My position is very clear. I am not prepared to accept any fixed contractor. Weve invited international bidders. Thats my view, he said. The communications minister proposed investing $2.4 billion in the Padma Bridge project. l
for the big event with utmost pleasure. However, since only one team will qualify from Group A of the World T20s first round, result of this particular game between Bangladesh and Afghanistan, with the threat of elimination hanging over both teams, will set the mood of the tournament in the country. The Afghans are a confident side after their recent success against the same opponents in the Asia Cup and they will be eyeing a similar upset in front of a packed Bangladesh crowd. Injury blows were a major concern for the Tigers in the recent past, but the on time recovery of Tamim Iqbal, Mashrafe bin Mortaza and Sohag Gazi is a major boost. Meanwhile, Mushfiqur Rahim taking up his job behind the wicket is also a relief for the home side. Rankled 4th in T20I all-rounder list, Shakib al Hasan will be a key figure in todays clash. It is not only his part with the bat and ball, but the presence of the countrys leading all-rounder has always proved to be a booster for the home side. It is likely Anamul Haque will open the innings with Tamim who showed a glimpse of his class in the last two warm-up matches after returning from a neck injury. The number three position is still for grab for either Sabbir Rahman or Mominul Haque, but in a crucial match like this the latter is expected to take the field.
The middle-order should be controlled by Mushfiq and Shakib like they did in the warm-up game against Ireland, which will allow players like Nasir Hossain, Mahmudullah and Gazi to cash in from the death overs. Spin will play a major role today as it was seen in the Asia Cup that the Afghans are a bit weak against the spinners. Along with Shakib, the spin department will be handled by left-arm spinner Abdur Razzak while Gazi and Mahmudullah must be used to make things as uncomfortable as possible for the associate nation. A win today will also break Bangladeshs 10-match losing streak in the World T20 as their only win in the tournament came against West Indies in the inaugural edition in 2007. Meanwhile the pressure on the home side is an added advantage for Afghanistan. Since their win in Asia Cup, whenever they had the chance they expressed their desire to achieve the feat again. The Zadrans, Shapoor and Dawlat, will be a threat with the new ball while the hard hitters like Mohammad Shahzad, Ashgar Stanikzai and Mohammad Nabi will be key in any score Afghanistan makes or chase. However, the Afghans have lost some momentum in their last four outings and it remains to be seen whether they have the temperament and calmness to overcome the huge hurdle today. l
March 8 and disappeared off air traffic controllers screens at about 01:20. Mr Razak told a news conference that new satellite evidence shows with a high degree of certainty that the one of the aircrafts communications systems - the Aircraft and Communications Addressing and Reporting System - was disabled just before it had reached the east coast of Malaysia. ACARS is a service that allows computers aboard the plane to talk to computers on the ground, relaying in-flight information about the health of its systems. Shortly afterwards, near the crossover point between Malaysian and Vietnamese air traffic controllers, the planes transponder - which emits an identifying
signal - was switched off, he said. According to military radar, the aircraft then turned and flew back over Malaysia before heading in a north-west direction. A satellite was able to pick up a signal from the plane until 08:11 local time - more than seven hours after it lost radar contact - although it was unable to give a precise location, Mr Razak said. He went on to say that based on this new data, investigators have determined the planes last communication with a satellite was in one of two possible corridors: a northern corridor stretching from the border of Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan through to northern Thailand and a southern corridor stretching from Indonesia to the southern Indian Ocean. Investigators will now focus on try-
ing to obtain the radar data from any of the countries the Boeing 777 may have passed over. This could include Thailand, Myanmar, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India and Pakistan. Mr Razak said that in light of the new evidence, the investigation had entered a new phase and would focus on the crew and passengers on board. Shortly after the news conference finished, Malaysian police searched the Kuala Lumpur home of the planes pilot, 53-year-old Zaharie Ahmad Shah. Malaysias prime minister confirmed much of what had been leaked to the media, from US agencies and satellite companies, in the last 48 hours. His government had been facing severe criticism for not being more open
about what it knows. China - which had 153 citizens on board the flight - has urged Malaysia to continue providing it with thorough and exact information on the search, state news agency Xinhua said. The foreign ministry said it was sending technical specialists to participate in the investigation, and appealed for the help of other countries and organisations. Along with the Chinese passengers, there were 38 Malaysians and citizens of Iran, the US, Canada, Indonesia, Australia, India, France, New Zealand, Ukraine, Russia, Taiwan and the Netherlands on board. An extensive search of the seas around Malaysia - involving 14 countries, 43 ships and 58 aircraft - since the plane disappeared had proved fruitless. l
Ripon Majhi, a polling agent of Awami League-backed candidate Jakir Hossain, was killed, when he and some other people allegedly tried to snatch away ballot papers from the polling centre. Witnesses said Ripon was killed when police opened fire trying to stop miscreants from snatching ballot papers from the polling centre at Bhumghara Government Primary School. However, Ehsan Saha, additional police superintendent of Shariatpur, claimed that Ripon was not killed by police fire. Meanwhile, a factional clash of the BNP left one of its activists dead in Netrokonas Madanpur upazila, where voting is scheduled to be held during the fourth phase of upazila poll. Witnesses said the clash between the supporters of BNP-backed candidate MA Haresh and BNPs rebel candidate Rafique Miah killed Genu Mia, a supporter of the rebel candidate. Relatives of the deceased said Hareshs supporter Abdur Rahim opened fire on the supporters of the rebel candidate, seriously injuring Genu, who was later declared dead at Mymensingh Medical College Hospital.
Seven candidates including five BNP-backed chair candidates in Barisal, Bagerhat, Feni and Shariatpur districts boycotted the elections bringing allegations against ruling party activists of vote-rigging and ousting agents and voters from different polling centres. In Chauddagram, BNP-backed candidate Kamrul Huda demanded suspension of ballot casting, alleging polls irregularities and vote rigging. Law enforcers detained seven people for occupying Mahalpara polling station in Brahmanpara upazila of Comilla. In Kurigram Sadar upazila, pickets snatched 246 ballot papers at Halokhana High School polling centre. In Manirampur upazila of Jessore, miscreants attacked Hajrakathhi Government Primary School polling centre and snatched away ballot boxes. Police fired 47 rounds of bullets to bring the situation under control. In Kachua upazila of Chandpur, at least 15 people were injured in a clash between the supporters of the Awami League and the BNP in Shilasthan Government Primary School polling centre. In Dhanbari upazila of Tangail, three people including a presiding officer
were injured when miscreants tried to snatch away the ballot papers. Witnesses said supporters of Awami Leaguebacked candidate Meer Faruk Ahmed tried to snatch away ballot paper from the Patol Akkas Alo primary school. On the other hand, a presiding officer was detained by law enforcers in Dhobaura upazila of Mymensingh because of negligence in duty. In Babuganj upazila of Barisal, miscreants occupied and snatched away ballots from different polling centres. Assistant Residing Officer Nurul Haque said miscreants stamped and cast 66 ballots. Witnesses also said five people were injured during chase and counter-chase between Awami League and BNP-backed contenders. In Kaliganj upazila of Satkhira, the Jamaat backed chairman contender boycotted the polls and called day-long hartal for Sunday in the upazila, alleging vote rigging and ballot snatching. In Bhola Sadar upazila, 30 people including two policemen were injured in a clash between supporters of BNP and Awami League-backed chairman candidates. Witnesses said violence caused voting to be suspended for an
hour in at least five polling centres. In Kuliarchar of Kishoreganj, miscreants snatched ballots from voting centres in government primary schools in Barchara, Abdullahpur and Kolakopa, while voting in these centres remained suspended for around two hours. In Damurhuda upazila of Chuadanga, BNP and Jamaat-backed chairman candidates boycotted the elections alleging vote rigging and centre occupying. In Tungipara of Gopalganj, two election observers were allegedly beaten up by supporters the Awami League-backed chairman candidate, while nine observers withdrew from field citing security reasons. Violence, ballot snatching, illegal ballot stamping, attack on magistrates vehicle also marked voting in Tungipara. Voting was temporarily suspended in two centres in Shibganj of Chapainawabganj, following clashes between supporters of Awami League and BNPbacked candidates. In Rajshahis Charghat upazila, BNP activists allegedly stabbed a Chhatra League man at Paranpur Primary School centre when he reportedly tried to obstruct voters. l
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tioning on April 6, 2010. Since establishment, we have sent each of the 11 crore SMSs six times to the mobile users urging them to lodge complaints against any kind of consumer rights violation but people are reluctant towards our calls, said Abul Hossain. Most of the people do not even read the SMS which is unfortunate. Citizens should play their roles in order to protect their rights, said the director general. Two days ago DNCRP had sent its last message. Can you guarantee that they [the directorate] will investigate my complaints with honesty? said Abdul Mannan, a resident of capitals Pallabi area, who was found throwing away a packet of milk on Sunday founding it to be rotten. They will simply collect fines from the company if I file a complaint, he said. Denying such allegation Abul Hossain Mia flagged out the shortage of manpower in his office. According to the official figure, the directorate had searched 24,750 commercial entities until February 16 this year and collected fines amounting to around Tk7.47 crore for adulteration. In line with the Consumer Rights Protection Act, the government set up a National Consumer Rights Protection Council headed by the Commerce Minister in 2010. The deputy commissioners of the 64 districts head the district consumer rights protection committee while 487 upzila nirbahi officers head the committee at the upazila level. On February 25, the Commerce Minister told the parliament that the government would form similar protection committees at the union level. l
Clockwise from top left: Voters queue in lines to cast their votes at a polling centre in Shatkhira upazila. Miscreants vandalise ballot boxes and loot ballot papers at Alia Madrasa polling centre in Bhola. Election officials unload ballot boxes for counting at a polling centre after the upazila elections ended in Gaibandha. Miscreants cast fake votes in front of the presiding officer at a polling centre Daganbhuiyan in Feni BANGLAR CHOKH FOCUS BANGLA
DHAKA TRIBUNE
News
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina receives donations for the upcoming T20 World Cup from representatives of different private organisations and companies at Ganabhaban in the capital yesterday FOCUS BANGLA
Homogenization & Majoritarian State Ideal causes CHT problem: NU VC n Tribune Report
The National University Vice Chancellor Harun-or-Rashid on March 7 said CHT Problem in Bangladesh stemmed from pursuance of a policy of Homogenization and Majoritarian State Ideal. The VC made the remarks at a seminar on his research titled Process of Marginalization of indigenous people In Their homeland: A Study on CHT in Bangladesh at Ryukoku University in Kyoto, Japan, said a media release signed by NU director (Public Relations, Information & Coun-sel-ing) Md Faizul Karim. He also said the 1997 CHT Peace Accord is a landmark in the countrys political history, which shows the policy of homogenization and majoritarian state ideal as the root cause of the CHT problem resulting in an insurgency spanning over two decades. Dr Harun-or-Rashid termed the growth of a nexus of vested interests encompassing all segments - civilian, non-civilian, administration, business, corporate houses, politicians, settlers, NGOs and other bodies, a section of tribal leaders, individuals- centering land as the main impediment to the implementation of the accord. The VC is now on a two-month visit at the university on the research. l
WEATHER
Nick Beresford, deputy country director of UNDP Bangladesh, speaks at the inaugural session of a two-day conference on violence against women at Hotel Ruposhi Bangla in the capital yesterday RAJIB DHAR
PRAYER TIMES
Fajar Sunrise Jumma Asr Magrib Esha 4:51am 6:06am 12:07am 4:27pm 6:08pm 7:23pm
Source: IslamicFinder.org
DHAKA TRIBUNE
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5
Police remains clueless even after three months n Mohammad Jamil Khan
Police investigators are yet to arrest any suspects or find any clues in the killings of six people, including a father and son, inside a flat in the capitals Gopibagh area nearly three month ago. While an investigation is on, family members of the victims are reportedly passing their days in hiding, fearing reprisals by those responsible for the murders. On December 21, the slain bodies of a local religious leader, Pir Lutfar Rahman Faruk, his son, Sarowar Islam Faruk, and four followers Monzurul Alam, Mohammad Rasel, Mohammad Shaheen and Mujibar Sarker, were found in their rented flat at 64/6 Gopibagh.
GOPIBAGH KILLINGS
We are living in hiding although it is the criminals who are supposed to be in hiding
Abdullah-Al-Faruk, Lutfar Rahmans younger son and plaintiff of the murder case filed with police, told the Dhaka Tribune that the familys everyday lives were disrupted due to fear of the killers as police had failed to make any progress in their investigation. We are living in hiding although it is the criminals who are supposed to be in hiding, Faruk said. During a primary investigation, law enforcers on examining the crime scene suspected that some militant Islamic group might be behind the killings. However, the Detective Branch of Police, which is now in charge of the case, has failed to identify any suspects or ascertain a motive. DB inspector Abul Khayer Matubbor, the investigating officer of the case, said they suspected that a militant group was involved in the killings, but were yet to find any trace of the killers. The killers were experts, and they did not leave a single clue at the crime scene. We sent samples collected from the spot to a laboratory for examination, but could not get much information, he said. Meanwhile, a high DB official claimed that Pir Lutfar Rahman often used to give confusing statements about Islam which might have angered some militant group and led to the killings. The official named banned Jamaatul Mujahideen Bangladesh, Hizbut Tahrir and Harkatul Jihad as possible suspects. l
Workers resume construction of the Purbachal Link Road after authorities finally appointed a new contractor to finish the project. This picture was taken yesterday was linked to the Purbachal link road, and another face of the road was linked with the Dhaka bypass road in Rupganj. ZahirulAlam, a resident of Dumni, said hundreds of people used the link road daily to save time. People living in Kuril, Khilkhet, Barua, Dumni, Isapura, Rupganj and different adjoining areas are using the road as a shortcut, he said. Zahirul also said the incomplete and bumpy road allows only CNG-run auto-rickshaws and battery-run three-wheelers to operate on the road, adding: Drivers charge Tk70 as fare for each trip from Khilkhet to Kanchan Bridge. Jahanara Akhter, another Dumniresident, said travelling on the potholed road was uncomfortable, especially for the children and the elderly people. Uzzal Mallick, project manager of Rajuk, told the Dhaka Tribune: Rajuk has cancelled contracts with former two venture companies CTCL Monico of lot 1 and ACL RP Construction of lot 2 for the delay of construction. Rajuk cancelled contract with ACLRP Construction in September last year, and also cancelled contract with CTCL Monico this month, he added. Uzzal said construction for lot 2 has restarted after Rajuk signed new contracts with two joint venture companies NCEL FF CRUZ in December last yearfor the cost of around Tk142 crore. No new contract, however, has been signed for lot 1, he added. Answering to a query, he said around 50% of the construction has been completed. Rajuk Chief Engineer (implementation) Md Emdadul Islam admitted that the construction has been suspended,
adding that agreements with the former contractors had been cancelled because of delays in construction. Rajuk officials said the 12-lane road is planned to have a four-lane expressway with two service roads on its both sides, as well as seven bridges, six underpasses and two culverts. During a visit to the project area, the Dhaka Tribune found that although the road was incomplete, the bridges and culverts were almost completed. The new construction companies have also started work on lot 2. l
JnU suspends 2 BCL activists for assaulting teacher over tender dispute
n Mohammad Jamil Khan
The authorities of Jagannath University (JnU) yesterday suspended two Bangladesh Chhatra League activists for allegedly assaulting a teacher over a procurement dispute. The suspended students were identified as SM Sirajul Islam, secretary of Chhatra Leagues JnU unit, and Shamim Ahmed. The university also served a notice to Shamim Mollah, a former JnU student, demanding to know why the university would not cancel his certificate for his alleged involvement in the matter. JnU proctor Asoke Kumar Saha confirmed the suspensions, saying the decision was taken yesterday in an emergency meeting of the universitys law and order committee. In a press statement, the JnU authorities said the students were accused of assaulting Mohammad Sayed Alam, a professor of the chemistry department, last week. The university also planned to file a case in this regard, it added. According to the statement, the JnU authorities had formed a committee with Sayed Alam as convener to procure furniture for the students common room through inviting tenders. The statement claimed that Sirajul Islam went to Sayed Alams office room on Thursday and asked him to stop the bidding process. Sirajul also asked the professor to issue a statement declaring that the tendering was over. But when Sayed Alam refused to do so, Sirajul and his supporters assaulted him, the press statement added. Sirajul, however, denied the allegation against him. Talking to the Dhaka Tribune, he claimed that the JnU teachers association was staging a false drama against him to foil an ongoing student movement to recover university dormitories from illegal occupiers. He also alleged that the university authorities and teachers association had taken huge sums of money from local lawmaker Haji Mohammad Selim and other property grabbers to stop the students from demonstrating. For this reason, they staged the drama just before the day of our grand rally today at Shaheed Minar, claimed Sirajul, who is also the member secretary of the hall recovery committee formed by the agitating students. Meanwhile, Sarkar Ali Akkas, president of JnU teachers association, refuted the student leaders claims. We are always with the students and we are also holding protests in support of their demand. So, we are not against their demonstrations, Sarkar said, adding, He (Sirajul) was punished as per the decision of the law and order committee following a primary investigation. l
President Abdul Hamid awards a student at the second convocation of University of Information Technology and Sciences, at Bangabandhu International Conference Centre in the capital yesterday. Former Malaysian prime minister Mahathir Bin Mohamad was also present at the event PID
DHAKA TRIBUNE
Nation
A bus topples upside down after falling into a roadside ditch at Mirkandapara in sadar upazila in Mymensingh yesterday
DHAKA TRIBUNE
Law flouted as trees sold from government land n Our Correspondent, Magura
A government officer sold trees recently worth about Tk 12 lakh in Magura district from the Water Development Board compound, without informing higher authorities or calling tender. According to sources, the WDB planted the trees on the bank of the Ganga-Kapatakha canal in Sreepur upazila under social plantation programme with a view to enhancing beauty and maintaining ecological balance. But Shanta Kumar Dutta, WDB sectional officer, in collusion with Nakol union council member Ebadat Hossen sold the trees. When contacted, Ebadat Hossen said that the trees were cut down and sold directed by WDB sectional officer Shanta Kumar. l
01.
Completion of incompletion work Meherpur of Gate with Father of the nation Sadar Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and National four leaders in front of Zilla Parishad ofce Campus. Completion of incompletion work on waterfall/Fountain in front of Zilla Parishad ofce. Repairing & Painting of Zilla Parishad ofce Bhabon. Maintenance of chief executive ofcer`s Resident and approach road. Repair and maintenance of Latrines at Zilla parishad Sadar Dakbanglo-1 & 2. Source of Fund -Do-
02.
12,500/-
75 Days
300/-
-Do-D0-D0-
4,500/5,000/9,000/-
100/200/300/-
Last date, time & places of selling : Date : 01-04-2014. Time : up to ofce time tender documents. Place : (a) Deputy Commissioner, Meherpur. (b) Zilla Parishad, Meherpur. (c) Executive Engineer, LGED, Meherpur. (d) Upazilla Nirbahi Ofcer Meherpur Sadar, Meherpur. Last date, time & places of receiving : Date : 02-04-2014. Time : up to 12.30 P.M tender documents. Place : Zilla Parishad, Meherpur. Date, time & places of opening : Date : 02-04-2014. Time tender. Place : Zilla Parishad, Meherpur : 2.00 P.M.
3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Tender security will be in favour of Chief Executive Ofcer, Zilla Parishad, Meherpur in the form of Pay Order/Bank Draft from any schedule Bank in Bangladesh. If the quoted amount of any tender is more than 5% above or less than the estimated cost, his/her tender shall be rejected. If the quoted rate become same for any group then the lottery will be held after tender evaluation report at Zilla Parishad, Meherpur. The Tenderer will have to apply in their original letter pad and submit attested photocopy of the up-to-date Trade License, VAT Registration, Income Tax Certicate, Cash ow and Liquid Assets for purchasing tender document. Tender shall be valid for a period of 120 days after bid submission and must be accompanied by the tender security specied above. Interested Tenderers may obtain further information from the ofce of the undersigned and purchase the tender documents in cash from the places mentioned above. The tenderers or their authorized representatives are allowed to attend the opening of tenders. The authority reserves the right to accept or reject any or all the tenders without assigning any reasons whatsoever. (Md Liakat Ali) Assistant Engineer Zilla Parishad, Meherpur Email-meherpurzp@gmail.com
9.
GC-31/14 (10"4)
DHAKA TRIBUNE
Career
The common thread through all these occupations is they all deal with the current issues affecting people
On the other hand, one can choose to continue academics, for example obtain a PhD in political science and be a full-time professor or faculty member in any one of the leading public or private universities offering the subject currently. There is scope to be a political analyst and provide commentary to the media and foreign embassies. A prime example is Professor Dr Piash Karim, who majored in anthropology, and is currently a full-time faculty member at BRAC University. His wide knowledge of current affairs and his interest in Bangladeshi politics means that he is often called to analyse politically motivated scenarios both locally and globally. The common thread through all these occupations is they all deal with the current issues affecting people. In truth, the science subjects with its job security and technical requirements may not be able to offer the dynamism which the social sciences do. While they may be riskier industries, the chance to shine and engage with the world makes them attractive. Therefore, although one cannot predict ones own fate, if you are ready to be high performer and have a social bent, then with the right attitude, spirit, determination, and perhaps luck anything is possible - even a Nobel Prize. l Anita Zeba Bakhtiar recently completed her research internship at GradConnect, an international career information and advisory firm. Naiian Yazdani is the Director of Strategy at GradConnect. You can email him at naiian@grad-connect.com and find more career information at www.grad-insights. com and www.grad-connect.com.
available career option for social science graduates, it is not the case. For example, a graduate of psychology who chooses to do a masters in child education could work as a child psychologist, helping children afflicted by mental ailments, supporting them as they recover from hardships and deal with trauma. Today as the awareness of the importance of mental health rises, as will roles such as these. This is an
example of the changing landscape of Bangladesh and creating opportunities in social sciences which were unavailable previously. An alternative career choice for majors in political science, anthropology or sociology could be to work for organisations such as the World Bank, the ADB or the UN, in which case, a proficiency in English, along with another language (preferably French, German,
or Spanish) is a must. A career in such institutions is a privilege and the work can not only be ever changing, fascinating and intense but also provide the opportunity to travel and to serve on a global platform. Students of international relations can join corporate jobs after completing their bachelors and secure an MBA majoring in human resources management. Roles include acting as liaisons
between offices of MNCs such as British American Tobacco in Bangladesh and overseas. They could also work as assistants of high-ranking officials in these MNCs who have come from abroad, and need an organised person to manage their itinerary. This should be an interesting and fulfilling choice for the adventurous as it might involve travelling to foreign countries every now and then.
Come down in price to lower the price of ones product, to become cheaper Come in high to charge too much for your services, to ask for a price that is too high Come in low to offer a low amount of money for a product or service Corner the market to dominate a particular market with your product A hard sell a way of selling something that is very aggressive and uses much pressure Have good contacts to know people who can help you get a job or do some kind of business Knock down the price to lower the price of something Land an account to acquire an account Line of products a group or category of products that are similar to each other Make a cold call to visit or telephone a potential but unknown customer from a list of people Make an offer to make a financial proposal for a product or service Move a product to sell a product Preferred customer a customer who does much business with you and who you give special discounts to Sell like hotcakes to sell very quickly Sellers market a situation where there are more buyers of a product/ service than sellers so the sellers have an advantage
BIZ VOCAB
Top authorities of every organisation are ensuring that employees are kept happy in an effort to increase the level of productivity and the concept of organisational hierarchy has become extinct
Because of this, an ongoing relationship between an organisation and the news media is vital. One way to possibly ensure a positive working relationship with media personnel is to become deeply familiar with their areas of interests a good enough reason as to why the necessity of organisational communication personnel should be prioritised. Googles theory that the most productive workers are happy workers has reached the corporate houses in Bangladesh today. Top authorities of every organisation are now ensuring that employees are kept happy in an effort to increase the level of productivity; furthermore, the concept of organisational hierarchy has more or less become extinct and teamwork has become the new trend of corporate houses. When a company is lean and ensures a good relationship between their management staff and their non-management staff, the achievements such as increased worker productivity and satisfaction, smooth structural changes are highlighted with little or no emphasis on the negative impacts. Training and worker development is one of the most important pillars of organisational communication that is used to facilitate change and development. It comes in many forms including unstructured, small-group sessions department of an organisation that is more prestigious, or more important than the other just as the spine of a human body is incomplete with only 25 ribsconsider the least important department to be the 26th rib. Each organisation may be particularly well known for a department, but it is the other supporting functions that have brought the strength into limelight. With Googles proven theory of the correlation of happiness and high productivity, Bangladeshi corporate houses should be commended for their effort in taking a leaf out of the multinational giants book to enhance their corporate settings and double their business sizes. Poor communication in a nonfunctional organisational change leads to confusion, lowered morale and loss of productivity. Therefore, it is important that qualified leaders are guiding the employees to remain strong during the structural changes, since their opportunity costs are higher than the rest. If not already, it is recommended that to experience a smooth organisation transition, the department of human resources should partner with each function/department to enhance the growth of business, and eliminate weak links. l Farah Iqbal is a freelance contributor.
planning and strenuous teamwork. Research uncovers potential areas of concern so that the organisation can build relationships, develop programmes and take corrective action to prevent small problems from becoming major issues both internally and externally. One area where public relations can play an important role in organisational communication is by recognising areas of not only actual agreement and disagreement, but also of perceived agreement and disagreement. Debatably, organisational communication will become the next big thing to indicate a companys growth and forecast. Human resource manage-
ment has mainstreamed over the past couple of years to primarily recognise essential aspects of maintaining efficient standard of structural changes that are actually a major reason behind the companys road to perfection. Public relations, media relations, and various kinds of practical training can be identified as structured organisational communication; not only does this ensure a positive stride towards improving a companys infrastructure, but also helps move towards a more developed direction. In the process, organisational communication can aid in enhancing team building and worker productiv-
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Syria troops advance in Yabrud as war enters fourth year n AFP, Damascus
Syrian troops advanced Saturday on the key rebel bastion of Yabrud as the countrys civil war entered its fourth year, with more than 146,000 dead, millions displaced and peace efforts stalled. Army troops were locked in fierce clashes with rebel forces, including the Al-Qaeda affiliate Al-Nusra Front, after they entered the town on Friday. The strategic stronghold is the last rebel-held town in the Qalamun region, which lies along the border with Lebanon and on the key highway between Damascus and third city Homs. The latest fighting illustrated the intractability of the conflict that began on March 15, 2011 after popular uprisings that toppled dictators in Tunisia and Egypt. Protests erupted in Syrias southern city of Daraa after teenagers were arrested over graffiti declaring: The people want the fall of the regime. President Bashar al-Assads regime reacted with force, and people began to die in the demonstrations that grew week after week. Civilians took up arms, soldiers began to desert and an insurgency became full-scale civil war after the regime bombed the central city of Homs in February 2012. Two years later, the war appears to have reached stalemate, with some predicting it could last another 10 or 15 years, like the 1975-1990 civil war in Lebanon. Rebels control large swathes of the country, but are fighting both the regime and an Al-Qaeda-inspired group they once welcomed. And the government holds the more densely-populated regions, seeking to protect useful Syria the coast, major towns and key roads. The regime is advancing on three fronts, south of Damascus, in the strategic Qalamun region and in Aleppo in the north. l
DHAKA TRIBUNE
World
Deadly violence flares up in Ukraine; stage set for biggest east-west showdown since Cold War
n AFP, Kharkiv
Ukraine braced on Saturday for a breakaway vote in Crimea as deadly violence flared again in the ex-Soviet countrys tinderbox east amid the biggest eastwest showdown since the Cold War. The second successive day of deadly unrest that has now claimed three lives in the mainly Russian-speaking east of the country came hours after Moscow, whose forces have seized control of Crimea, warned that it reserved the right to protect compatriots in the whole of Ukraine. US secretary of state John Kerry had on Friday failed to either avert Sundays Crimea ballot or win Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrovs assurance that Moscow may delay annexing the Black Sea region that Ukraine only received as a gift from Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev in 1954. The rugged Black Sea peninsula home to two million mostly Russian speakers and the base of czarist and Kremlin navies since the 18th century is widely expected to vote in favour of joining Russia after its lawmakers declared independence from Kiev earlier this month. The referendum comes weeks after a pro-Kremlin regime was toppled in Kiev after months of deadly protests and replaced with western-leaning leadership, which has denounced Sundays vote as illegal. But Moscow, whose troops seized control of Crimea in the days after Ukraines president was ousted, strongly backs the referendum despite international condemnation and a new round of painful sanctions against top Russian officials that Washington and EU nations are expected to unveil as early as Monday. The latest deadly violence flared on Friday evening in Kharkiv when a group of nationalists opened fire on pro-Russian supporters in the heart of the eastern industrial city of 1.4 million. No one was hurt but police said the pro-Russians then chased the gunmen to the headquarters of a far-right group called Patrioty Ukrainy (Ukrainian Patriots) an offshoot of the Pravy Sektor (Right Sector) organization that was at the heart of the Kiev anti-government protests. Police said a pro-Russian protester and a passerby were killed when the nationalists holed up inside the building opened fire. Six others were hurt including one officer when police arrived at the scene. The group of about 30 gunmen eventually gave up their arms and handed themselves over to the police. The Russian foreign ministrys human rights pointman Konstantin Dolgov urged Kiev in a tweet to immediately ban all organizations inciting inter-ethnic hatred. The Kharkiv clashes came one day after a 22-year-old man was killed in another eastern city of Donetsk when 2,000 pro-Russian supporters attacked a smaller group rallying on the same square in the defence of Ukraines sovereignty. Ukraines acting president Oleksandr Turchynov blamed the Donetsk death on thugs sent in from Russia. The worst standoff in east-west relations since the 1989 fall of the Berlin Wall found no solution when Kerry and Lavrov locked horns in six-hour talks in London that ended in a handshake and an agreement that the two sides still remained far apart. We have no common vision of the situation, Lavrov grimly told reporters. A US diplomat said Kerry found himself at check-mate when Lavrov made it clear that President (Vladimir) Putin is not prepared to make any decision regarding Ukraine until after the referendum on Sunday. That timing is far too late for US officials who accuse Crimeas separatist leaders and their Kremlin backers of holding the vote at gunpoint. l Left: People take part in an anti-war rally in Moscow, yesterday. Participants, including opposition activists and supporters, protested against the incursions of the Russian army into Ukraines Crimea, according to organizers REUTERS
Bottom: Pro-Kremlin activists march in Moscow, on March 15, 2014, during a rally in support of recent Russias move on Crimea. Around 50,000 people rallied today in central Moscow in protest at Russias intervention in Ukraine, a day before the Crimean peninsula is expected to vote on switching to Kremlin rule, an AFP team estimated. A rival demonstration, which appeared to be well-organised, attracted 15,000 people in support of Putin, police estimated AFP
US defends Venezuelas Foreign Minister surveillance before Calls Kerry Murderer UN rights panel in a speech carried on state TV. n AFP, Geneva n Reuters, Caracas Mr. Kerry, we denounce to the
The United States defended its controls on mass surveillance on Friday before a UN watchdog body amid a sweeping review of Washingtons record on civil and political rights. The US government has faced a cascade of scandals over online and telephone snooping around the globe by the US National Security Agency (NSA) since fugitive former intelligence contractor Edward Snowden went public in 2013. During a session of the United Nations Human Rights Committee, experts from the 18-member panel repeatedly quizzed Washingtons delegation about the scale and scope of spying. Bruce Swartz, deputy assistant attorney general for the criminal division at the US Department of Justice, underlined that the intelligence programmes in the spotlight were lawful under the law of the United States. In addition, Swartz said, there was rigorous oversight by a host of authorities and the courts. l Venezuelas foreign minister lambasted US Secretary of State John Kerry on Friday as a murderer fomenting unrest that has killed 28 people in the South American OPEC member nation. Since street demonstrations began against President Nicolas Maduros socialist government in early February, Venezuelan officials have been accusing Washington of stirring the countrys worst political troubles in a decade. US officials say Venezuela is using them as a scapegoat, inventing accusations to distract from internal economic and political problems. In the sternest words during the crisis from Washington, Kerry said on Thursday the Venezuela government was using a terror campaign to repress its own citizens. Every time were about to isolate and reduce the violence, Mr. Kerry comes out with a declaration and immediately the street protests are activated, Foreign Minister Elias Jaua said
Gazas only power plant shuts down for lack of fuel n AFP, Gaza City
The Gaza Strips only power plant shut down Saturday due to a lack of fuel from Israel, which closed a goods crossing after militant rocket attacks, the energy authority said. The plant has completely ceased to function due to a lack of fuel caused by (Israels) closure of the Kerem Shalom crossing, said Fathi al-Sheikh Khalil, deputy director of the energy authority in the Palestinian territory ruled by the Islamist movement Hamas. On Thursday, Israeli Defence Minister Moshe Yaalon ordered the closure of the Kerem Shalom crossing between Israel and Gaza and the Erez pedestrian crossing until further security assessments. In response, the energy authority cut the plants operation from only 12 hours a day to six until the fuel ran out. The facility, which supplies some 30 percent of Gazas electricity needs, has been forced to shut down several times, most recently in December. l
whole world, you encourage the violence in Venezuela ... We denounce you as a murderer of the Venezuelan people. After tense relations during the 14year rule of the late Hugo Chavez, there had been some hopes on both sides of a rapprochement between Venezuela and the United States. Kerry and Jaua did actually meet in June last year, on the sidelines of a meeting of the Organization of American States in Guatemala, with both governments saying they wanted better ties. But the bitterness and incidents have continued, with Maduro last month expelling three US diplomats he accused of recruiting protesters. Washington responded in kind. In Guatemala, you said to me you have to lower the tone, Jaua added in his speech. We are not going to lower the tone to any empire until you order your lackeys in Venezuela to cease the violence against the people. l
n AFP, Cairo
This combination of photos shows the Eiffel tower (R) in central Paris through a haze of pollution taken on March 14, 2014 and during clear weather (L) on August 17, 2012. More than 30 departments in France are hit by maximum level pollution alerts since the day before, prompting Ecology Minister to say air quality was an emergency and a priority for the government. AFP
Prominent Egyptian activist Alaa Abdel Fattah will stand trial on March 23 for allegedly participating in a violent protest, state media reported Saturday, amid concerns the military-installed regime is increasingly stifling dissent. Abdel Fattah was a well-known activist and blogger during the 2011 uprising that overthrew strongman Hosni Mubarak, and supported the militarys ousting of Islamist president Mohamed Morsi two years later. But he and other activists have since clashed with the new military-installed government, which has waged an extensive crackdown on both Islamists and secular activists like him. He had been hailed as an icon of the revolution by the military-installed presidency after Morsis overthrow, before he began protesting against the new regime. Abdel Fattah will face trial with 24 other defendants for a November protest against a clause in the constitution allowing the military to court martial civilians, the official MENA news agency reported. l
DHAKA TRIBUNE
World
People watch a live TV feed of Malaysian Prime Minister speaking at a press conference, at a hotel in Beijing yesterday remarks did little to ease their nerves, with some openly suggesting foul play on the Malaysian side. I feel (Malaysia Airlines) had a role to play in this incident, Wen Wancheng, a man from east Chinas Shandong province whose son is among the passengers on the missing flight, told a gaggle of reporters after watching Razaks news conference.
AFP
He expressed scepticism at the latest update given by Razak regarding the time of the planes final communication, calling the flights disappearance a conspiracy...from the beginning. l
Court cuts jail term of Pakistan doctor who helped find bin Laden n Reuters
A court in Pakistan on Saturday reduced by 10 years the jail term handed down to a Pakistani doctor who helped the United States track down al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, in a blow to his supporters who have been fighting for his release. Shakil Afridi, hailed as a hero by US officials, was arrested after US soldiers killed bin Laden in May 2011 in a raid in a northern Pakistani town that outraged Pakistan and plunged relations between the strategic partners to a new low. Pakistan arrested Afridi and sentenced him to 33 years in jail for being a member of a militant group, a charge he denies. On Saturday, a court in the city of Peshawar reduced his sentence to 23 years following repeated calls by the United States and his legal team for his release. We will receive a complete court order on Monday and will then challenge it at the FATA Tribunal, said Afridis lawyer, Qamar Nadeem, referring to a higher tribal court. Afridi has become a new irritant in the complex ties between Washington and Islamabad that have been deteriorating over past years despite Pakistans pivotal role to US interests in Afghanistan, counter-terrorism and nuclear security. The day after Afridi was sentenced, the US Senate expressed its anger by voting to dock Islamabad $33 million in aid - $1 million for every year of the term. l
In 2004. every single opinion poll said we are going to get thrashed
We are now fighting a third election. They always say Congress will not do well. Let us not start with the assumption that opinion polls are the law. We have to fight a strong election, Gandhi said seeking to dispel the notion that Congress is down in the dumps and enthuse the cad-
REDISCOVERING COLOURS
Sri lanka arrests Tamil woman who pressed case for disappeared rebel son
In this photograph taken on March 14, an Indian widow adorned with coloured powder looks on from the doorway of a bedroom following celebrations for the spring festival of Holi at the Meerasahabhagini Ashram in Vrindavan, some 135 kilometres (80 miles) south of New Delhi. Widows are considered social outcasts in Indian society and usually refrain from celebrating Holi, but in a break from tradition around 1,000 widows living in the holy city of Vrindavan celebrated the spring festival. Holi AFP
n Reuters, Colombo
An ethnic Tamil woman who has become a prominent face in the effort to find out what happened to the tens of thousands who disappeared in the final stages of Sri Lankas 26-year war has been arrested, the main Tamil party TNA said on Friday. Sri Lankan police said Balendran Jayakumari, a 50-year-old widow and mother of four, was arrested in Sri Lankas former northern war zone of Kilinochchi on the charge of harboring a criminal who shot at a police officer to evade arrest. The Tamil National Alliance, which was the political proxy of the now-defeated Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), said she was being punished for repeatedly protesting over the fate of her son, an under-age rebel who disappeared after the Tigers surrendered to the gov-
ernment at the end of the war in May 2009. I think they have been targeted and charging her will send a message to the other relatives of disappeared people. Those people may not come out to tell what happened to their beloved ones in the future, TNA lawmaker Eswarapatham Saravanabavan told Reuters. International pressure is growing on Sri Lankas government to address allegations that tens of thousands of civilians were killed by the army in the final weeks of the war and some thousands are still missing or unaccounted for. The TNA said in a statement several hundred security personnel surrounded Jayakumaris house on Thursday, confiscated her mobile telephones and interrogated her for more than four hours before taking her and her daughter away. Police spokesman Ajith Rohana said Jayakumari was arrested on the offence of harboring an escaped criminal. l
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The country will be a friendly host. We hope the Tigers make Bangladesh proud
March 13 She was a fairy tale princess indeed! Javed Arun Zaman
March 13 The whole city is now lit up like a red-light district! Parveen
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The business case is strong. Its location gives it an advantage over other proposals around South Asia
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DHAKA TRIBUNE
Op-Ed
11
Poetic justice
H
n Khawaza Main Uddin
e could have been rather proud of his ability to make or break a regime. He should have at least relished his survival many years after his fall from the heaven of power. But now, in his 80s, Ershads hands are tied with an invisible rope which is tethered to Nazimuddin Road. He is fully aware of the consequence of the betrayal with his masters. ment and electoral victory of the AL in 1996 and 2008 respectively. He had the credit of postponing for two years the elections scheduled for January 2007 when his nomination paper was cancelled. The man who assassinated the characters of many politicians managed to make the entire process of the one-sided elections on January 5 more controversial by announcing his withdrawal from the race. Ultimately he had to pay some price and land in a virtual jail at CMH before the polls. And again, from captivity, he has been made a part of the AL-led grand alliance government of democratic deficiency. He has lost control over the JP parliamentary party. For quite a number of years, the JP looked divided into two streams pro-AL leaders and proBNP leaders. The irony of fate is that others are now doing to him what he did to others during the formation of the party. However, the biggest casualty of the January 5 elections, to date, is the JP. The party, which once had command over up to 10% of all votes, has been razed to the ground in the ongoing upazila polls. It won only two upazila chairman posts so far out of 210. Who would say that it was during Ershads reign when the upazila or sub-district system was introduced? Still, Ershad has no regret in public. The Sheikh Hasina-led government addressed his major worry. Delivery of the judgment on the General Manzur murder case against him has recently been deferred once again. What else could he expect from the government which has given him freedom in exchange for alignment with it? He should appreciate it even if there is political blackmailing, just for the sake of impunity. Nobel Laureate poet Pablo Neruda died 12 days after General Augusto Pinochet had overthrown Chiles elected president Salvador Allende in 1973. His aides called it a murder. His body was exhumed last year. Officials claimed that he was not poisoned. But hardly anyone seemed to be convinced about it, for Neruda, critical of the coup, was planning to go into exile before his sudden death.
The irony of fate is that others are now doing to him what he did to others during the formation of the party
Did AR Rahmans performance expose some double standards?
MUMIT M
E
In 2014, Ershad regretted frequent shifts in his political stance, saying he was not a free man. So what he said, or rather admitted, did not necessarily reflect his views. Now could he recall that he had compelled someone at gunpoint in 1982 to say what he was not willing to say? In a recorded address to the nation on March 24, 1982, the then president Justice Abdus Sattar said it had been essential to proclaim martial law in the country. Cabinet Secretary Keramat Ali was directed to ask the president at Bangabhaban to read out the speech authored by Ershads collaborators to justify his usurpation. During his rule in the 1980s, he used to claim that his hands were not drenched in blood. Assuming he was right, history has done justice to him by not seeing him as a victim of the bloodshed during or soon after his downfall. His name is also associated with allegations of some political killings. Interestingly, the first court verdict against him after 1990 was related to the possession of firearms. He used firearms on a different occasion nine years ago to force president Sattar to relinquish his office. In a turnaround of political events, today Ershad has by his side JSD leader Hasanul Haque Inu as an ally who sued him in 1991 for hijacking state power. Ershad resorted to political adventurism by deciding to boycott the 10th parliamentary elections held on January 5. One of the vocal student leaders of the 1980s who led the anti-autocracy movement told me that they might have forgiven Ershad had he stuck to this moral position at this stage of his life. He befooled everyone, including himself. He could have smiled a bit seeing the quality of governance in the aftermath of his rule. He might argue that the prime ministerial form of government, reintroduced after his exit, was no better than the presidential system which was blamed for encouraging autocracy. He may also think that he is not the only ruler who faced allegations of killing and displayed shamelessness to stay in power. Ershads Jatiya Party (JP) contributed to the formation of the govern-
n Matthew Islam
rattish puritanism ensues and so commences the whining. My God! What is happening to this nation? Why are we so insecure and childish? Why does every big entertainment event hosted here have to enrage nationalists, VIPs, or be an occasion of war to protect our heritage? Is our thousand-year-old culture really going to go extinct? Is chomchom going to be less sweettomorrow? Do we not celebrate March 26or Pohela Boishakh the way we always do? Are all our own TV and radio channels broadcasting in Hindi? Why cant a show be just that, a show? Why does it need politicisation? It wouldnt be farfetched to label us the leading drama queens of South Asia. Please have some dignity or display restraint in your paranoia, so that some of us, with our diminishing stocks of self worth, may continue to retain it more easily. The stench of hypocrisy in the current flow of borderline racist and bigoted outrage is all pervasive. We must make a concerted effort to be a part of this century, lest we be abandoned completely, at which point we truly will see a hijacking of our culture. Following pre-show India is taking over Bangladeshs culture rants on Twitter and Facebook to the postshow conspiracy theories as to why its unfair to have Hindi songs play in our opening ceremony, to our baseless lamenting of public funds being used in the show prominently featuring Indian artists; our image to those who believe in a cooperative global village abroad is getting smaller with each instance of such demented close mindedness. For one, this is an opening ceremony/celebration concert for a sport that is multicultural and global; we dont own cricket, and no one else does. To
stage a global sporting event in its full glory, it requires that we summon our resources and contacts globally and present a show thats entertaining and of a world standard. Everything the lights, the budget, the artists must represent a global standard and display our abilities to host events like this in the future. There must be an element of novelty and brevity. An attempt must be made on such instances to display a vision thats global, that we too can compete with the world. Whether we succeed or not is a different question meriting perhaps a debate, but we must intend to put our best foot forward.
was made on account of Mr Akon. Is there more to this selective protest by nationalist advocating of local artistic protectionism? Would the guardians of our culture please stand up? Can the non-religious elitists amongst you please explain to me how perhaps having Shakira or Justin Timberlake would make you less angry? Why was Bryan Adams opening turn at the cricket World Cup more palatable? One must be realistic and pragmatic about our artistic image in the world. I find it hard, with due respect to our own crop of legendary performing artists in the show, to claim that they
Can the non-religious elitists amongst you please explain to me how perhaps having Shakira or Justin Timberlake would make you less angry?
FIFA World Cup musical ceremonies, like that of the Olympic ones, no matter in which country they are hosted, often prominently feature headlining artists of varying nationalities. Think Shakira, a Colombian, at the football World Cup in Africa. Hosting a celebration for a global sport often requires that you present your nations strengths in organising such events and in this instance our headliner was AR Rahman, an Oscar winner and multiple Grammy winner who has in the past performed in numerous distinguished global events such as the Oscars and the Nobel Peace Prize concerts, amongst many such other illustrious examples. It strikes me as odd and selectively political in its tone that the uproar in one section of our society centres on AR Rahman performing, yet little noise
could, by merit, stand shoulder to shoulder with other artists worldwide perhaps with the exception of Arnob and friends. Who really are the only artists that we can be proud of on a global stage? If the others could, and had it in them, wed have seen it by now, and have witnessed universal appreciation for them, both critically and commercially the world over, like that of an AR Rahman and Akon, who they claim, they are better than. Then after all that, to argue that we are deprived of opportunities worldwide, so on our soil we must make exceptions for them, is really taking the cake and burning it. That would be a true waste of our phantom public funds. To the proponents of the anti-Hindi language movement in Bangladesh,
you are overlooking that we are a pretender progressive nation, and must on the face of it, in events such as this, regardless of personal biases, pretend to uphold the tenets of what that means. To be less bigoted. To be more accepting of diverse cultures. To be more humble and kind to guests. To believe that we have still lots to learn as a nation from others in the world. These are all qualities we must begin schooling on if we are to grow in the world stage. To end, seriously ask yourself, wheres the novelty in seeing Miles or LRB perform for the umpteenth time the same songs they have performed for two decades? Why should we be protecting their interests? What would be their universal draw in such a ceremony? A cover of Santana? The only fair thing would be to leave these matters to the free market capitalistic community that we truly are, and I see nothing wrong in that. There must be a freedom to plan these kinds of mega events in our country, and for us to not shiver and acquiesce every single time to the unreasonable demands of being represented, because that is what a progressive nation does. We must fight and compete for our representation worldwide. We must reject free handouts. We must enhance our art to international standards and fight for recognition. We must make a global impact with our art. We must collaborate with open hearts with other artists, and not condemn their art because of misplaced pride and ego. That is how our brethren across the borders progressed to the front stage of world entertainment, and wed be wise to take a leaf out of their book. l Matthew Islam is a Barrister-at-Law, a textile businessman, and a columnist at the Dhaka Tribune. He can be contacted on Twitter via @matthewislam.
The party, which once had command over up to 10% of all votes, has been razed to the ground in the ongoing upazila polls
Is Ershad smarter than Pinochet? A bicyclist ruler in his early days, Ershad emerged as a poet and lyricist and started patronising other poets. He was not found writing any longer once he had more leisure time outside the realm of power. Poems bid him goodbye, according to him, for his fear of going to jail. Critics have never believed this poet. l Khawaza Main Uddin is Executive Editor at ICE Business Times.
Many still wish for a third force, but I cant see the AL providing political space
It would be important for a reformed opposition to re-establish that the true intellectual and moral foundations of the state are political rights, freedom, and economic equality, and insist that a one-party government leads away from these foundations. l William B Milam is a Senior Scholar at the Woodrow Wilson Centre in Washington, DC, and former US Ambassador to Pakistan and Bangladesh. This article was first published in The Express Tribune.
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DHAKA TRIBUNE
Entertainment
SUBRIN AL AZAD
SUBRIN AL AZAD
gal. No example of fencing will be found across the world in a democratic system unless the countrys system is despotic. Mubasshar Hussain, the president of the Institute of Architect Bangladesh said: The parliament building stands as a democratic icon to the nation. The lawns in the east and west and the south plaza must remain open to people as per the master plan of the parliament complex, but the government violated
the committees plan led by the deputy speaker. Public Works Department is implementing the project in which 8.5-foot high iron fencing would be set up on three sides of the complex - South Plaza and the lawns in the east and the west - replacing an existing four-foot high barrier. World famous architect Louis I Kahn designed the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban on 200 acres of land in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar and it was inaugurated in 1982. l
n Entertainment Desk
Bombay Velvet, starring Ranbir Kapoor and Anushka Sharma, seems to be making more news for the lead pairs real-life relationships than their onscreen chemistry. So while Katrina Kaif has flown to Sri Lanka to catch up with beau Ranbir at every given opportunity, its now Virat Kohlis turn to spend some quality time with rumoured girlfriend, Anushka Sharma. After returning from Bangladesh, the cricketer apparently flew down to Sri Lanka last week
in order to meet Anushka. Virat joined Anushka in Sri Lanka where the latter has been shooting for her film over the past few weeks. He came in for a few days and they would hang out together during her free time. They were also put up in the same hotel, but they were a lot more discreet this time around. They made sure that they werent get clicked together, so not many crew members knew about this, said a source. The cricketer apparently had some time on hand before the start of the next series, and he wanted to make the most of it. He returned to Mumbai from Sri Lanka on Thursday morning in time to join the Indian team for the ICC World T20 Championship. l
Sport
matches and I think they are also good sides. My aim is to become the group champion so we definitely want to win tomorrow (today), he said. The expectation will be sky high and it can add some extra pressure on the home side, but Mushfiq remained confident in fulfilling the expectations instead of taking extra pressure. I dont think there is any extra pressure on us theres always some pressure in the international match and I think the way we played last two years we could not fulfill that recently and these pressures will be there. We are looking forward to fulfill those expectations and I think as we are playing on the home soil we will also have the crowd support and hoping to do well, he added. The wicket-keeper informed that they worked on their opponents strengths and weaknesses and they will try to create pressure on Afghanistan. After a series of defeats, the two warm-up wins over UAE and Ireland brought back some lost confidence and Mushfiq revealed they are hungrier for a win than ever. We know how hard we worked the last three months. But it was not reflected on the result. We know how one or two good games could change the whole scenario which we feltafter winning the last two warm-up games. We are now more aggressive and more hunger than any other time which is what the motivational factor of the team, said Mushfiq. l
DHAKA TRIBUNE
13
14 West Brom
sacks Anelka
up Australian win
15 Bangladesh face
Bangladesh skipper Mushfiqur Rahim sweats it out in the indoors of SBNS ahead of the crucial Afghanistan tie of the ICC T20 World Cup yesterday
MUMIT M
Afghan captain Mohammad Nabi enjoys a light moment during a practice session at SBNS yesterday DHAKA TRIBUNE
Indian stars Virat Kohli (2R), Ashwin and others arrive at the open media session at Sonargaon Hotel yesterday DHAKA TRIBUNE
14
Djokovic books semi clash with Isner
Second-seeded Novak Djokovic swept past unseeded Frenchman Julien Benneteau on Friday to set up a semi-final showdown with American John Isner at the Indian Wells ATP Masters. Djokovic, a two-time champion in the California desert, needed just 68 minutes to power past Benneteau 6 1, 6 3. The world number two didnt face a break point in the match, but had the chance to break Benneteau in all but the first of the Frenchmans service games. I have done everything I wanted, said Djokovic. AFP
DHAKA TRIBUNE
Sport
Tendulkar voted Cricketer Top dogs Liverpool scent of the Generation blood at Man United
Liverpool hold the whip hand over Manchester United for the first time in decades and could land a devastating blow on their rivals top-four challenge at Old Trafford on Sunday. Having endured year upon year of United supremacy, Liverpool have turned the tables this season and approach this weekends match 11 points above their floundering foes in the Premier League table. While Liverpool still have eyes on the title, Uniteds bid for Champions League qualification is in dire straits as they trail fourth-place Manchester City by nine points, having played two games more. David Moyess side have already lost at home four times in the league this season and they can expect no sympathy from a Liverpool team whose fans have endured season after season of torment at Uniteds hands. While Rodgers has been eager to play down Liverpools title chances, he says that silverware, rather than success against United, will be the only reliable barometer of his teams progress. Devoid of distractions in the cup competitions, Liverpool have found fine form in recent weeks, winning seven and drawing two of their last nine league games. Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge, the divisions two leading scorers, have now amassed 42 goals between them, which is only four fewer than Uniteds entire squad. United enjoyed breezy wins over Crystal Palace and West Bromwich Albion in their last two league outings, but disaster has never been far away for Moyes this season and on Wednesday his side must attempt to overturn a 2-0 deficit against Olympiakos in the last 16 of the Champions League. Moyes can also now call upon winger Nani, who has recovered from a long-term hamstring problem, while centre-back Jonny Evans (calf) and striker Javier Hernandez (knee) could also be in contention to play. Liverpool, who last tasted victory at United in March 2009, have been given a boost by the returns to fitness of midfielder Lucas Leiva (knee) and centreback Mamadou Sakho (hamstring). l One of the greatest batsmen of all time, the iconic Sachin Tendulkar was on Friday voted Cricketer of the Generation as he staved off stiff competition from spin legend Shane Warne and allrounder par excellence Jacques Kallis at the ESPNcricinfo awards function. The award is meant to honour the most outstanding cricketer between the years 1993 and 2013, and the occasion also marked the 20th anniversary celebrations for the cricket website. I am speechless, honestly, said Tendulkar after receiving the award. Thanks to ESPNcricinfo for considering me worthy enough. When Martin (Crowe) and Rahul (Dravid) both spoke about me, I didnt know how to react. Tendulkar has been the most successful batsman of his generation, having set innumerable records in both Tests and ODIs. He rewrote some of the most coveted batting records, including those for most Test runs and Test hundreds, and for most ODI runs and ODI hundreds. The Mumbaikar is the only cricketer to score hundred international centuries.
FIXTURES
Man United v Liverpool Tottenham v Arsenal
On Kallis, Tendulkar said, I first saw him in 1996. He looked an okay player and I thought, this guy could become a decent allrounder. But over a period of time, how he changed his batting technique and worked on his bowling was incredible. Kallis used to walk with his head down and I used to tell my teammates that once he has realised which way the blades of the grass are, he is going to make you pay. Talking about Warne, he said, I first played against Warne in 1992 and you could make out he had the talent, but he wasnt consistent enough in the first game. The second time I faced him was in Sri Lanka and I was beaten by his spin. I charged him next ball and was lucky to get away. Warne came up to me and tried to charge me up, but I turned towards square leg and ignored him. Post match, i asked him, Warne, what were you trying to say? From then onwards, we became good friends. Tendulkar ended his glorious 24year international career last November, signing off with an elegant 74 against the West Indies in his final Test innings. l
Australia players celebrate a wicket against South Africa at SuperSport Park on Friday AFP
FIXTURES
Elche Barcelona Sevilla Real Sociedad v v v v Real Betis Osasuna Valladolid Valencia
FIXTURES
Atalanta AC Milan Cagliari Livorno Sassuolo Fiorentina Genoa v v v v v v v Sampdoria Parma Lazio Bologna Catania ChievoVerona Juventus
The Brazilian was also sidelined by an ankle injury for a month at the start of the year and Martino also thinks that has also played a part in the 22-yearolds return of just one goal in 2014. Returning after a month out injured it is always difficult to get back into rhythm and then the problems with his signing appeared, he said at a press conference on Saturday. If I had to choose one reason I would focus in the non-sporting issues. l
Although still in Europa League contention, despite losing 1-0 at FC Porto on Thursday, and facing Fiorentina in the Italian Cup final, goalkeeper Pepe Reina said claiming second and an automatic Champions League spot is Napolis priority. We believe we can finish second, Reina told La Gazzetta dello Sport. l
SCORECARD, SA V AUS
South Africa
Q de Kock c Haddin b Hogg H Amla lbw b Starc F du Plessis c Hogg b Maxwell J Duminy c Henriques b Maxwell A de Villiers c Hodge b Hogg D Miller c Bailey b Henriques A Morkel b Starc W Parnell not out B Hendricks not out Extras (b1, lb2, nb1, w3) Total (7 wkts, 20 overs) 41 2 5 13 11 2 18 17 12 7 128
Group B
Zimbabwe, Ireland, UAE, Netherlands Sunday, March 16 Bangladesh v Afghanistan at Dhaka Nepal v Hong Kong at Chittagong Monday, March 17 Zimbabwe v Ireland at Sylhet UAE v Netherlands at Sylhet Tuesday, March 18 Afghanistan v Hong Kong at Chittagong Bangladesh v Nepal at Chittagong Wednesday, March 19 Zimbabwe v Netherlands at Sylhet Ireland v UAE at Sylhet Thursday, March 20 Afghanistan v Nepal at Chittagong Bangladesh v Hong Kong at Chittagong Friday, March 21 Zimbabwe v UAE at Sylhet Ireland v Netherlands at Sylhet
Fall of wickets 1 15, 2 20, 3 44, 4 68, 5 75, 6/81, 7 103 Bowling Starc 4 1 16 2, Coulter-Nile 4 0 33 0, Maxwell 4 0 19 2, Henriques 3 0 15 1, Hogg 4 0 31 2, Watson 1 0 11 0
Australia
A Finch c Miller b Imran Tahir 39 C White c Imran Tahir b Parnell 14 S Watson c Du Plessis b Imran Tahir 35 G Maxwell lbw b Hendricks 17 G Bailey not out 12 B Hodge not out 11 Extras (w1) 1 Total (4 wkts, 15 overs) 129 Fall of wickets: 1 43, 2 67 Bowling Duminy 2 0 27 0, Tsotsobe 2 0 19 0, Hendricks 3 0 21 1, Parnell 2 0 15 1 (1w), Imran Tahir 4 0 21 2, Morkel 2 0 26 0 Australia won by six wickets. Australia won the three-match series 2 0 (1 match abandoned)
SUPER 10 ROUND
Group 1
South Africa, Sri Lanka, England, New Zealand, B1
SEMI FINALS
Thursday, April 3 Group 1 winners v Group 2 runners-up at Dhaka 7:00PM Friday, April 4
Group 2
India, Pakistan, Australia, West Indies, A1 Friday, March 21 India v Pakistan, at Dhaka Saturday, March 22 South Africa v Sri Lanka, at Chittagong 3:30PM England v New Zealand, at Chittagong 7:30PM 7:30PM
7:00PM 7:00PM
FINAL
Sunday, April 6 at Dhaka (Reserve day - Monday, April 7)
DHAKA TRIBUNE
Sport
15
A Sri Lankan players goes air bound to avoid a hit of a Qatar player during their AGHQ match yesterday
COURTESY
QUICK BYTES
2 1 1 0
Cardiff
Cala 68
Hull Southampton
0 2 4 2 3 1 0 0 1 2
Norwich
Elmander 85, Snodgrass 86
Stoke
Odemwingie 33, 79, Arnautovic 69
West Ham
Carroll 5
Sunderland Swansea
Lamah 2
Manchester City survived the 10th-minute dismissal of captain Vincent Kompany to win 2-0 at Hull City on Saturday and reduce Chelseas lead in the Premier League to six points. Kompany saw red for a last-man foul on Nikica Jelavic, but David Silva put City ahead with a glorious curling effort just four minutes later and Edin Dzeko made sure of victory at the death. It was Citys first league match for three weeks and they still have two games in hand on Chelsea, although the leaders can reassert their ninepoint advantage with victory at Aston Villa later on Saturday.
City were missing top scorer Sergio Aguero due to injury and they received a further setback in the 10th minute when Kompany was given his marching orders. Jelavic appeared to foul Kompany as they jostled for possession, but play was allowed to continue and when the City captain hauled the Croatian down, referee Lee Mason immediately brandished the red card. Kompany kicked out at a door in frustration as he stalked down the tunnel, but City reacted in stirring fashion, with Silva gathering a pass from Yaya Toure and arcing a beautiful shot inside the left-hand post from 25 yards. Meanwhile, bottom club Fulham gave their chances of avoiding relegation a boost with a 1-0 win at home to
Newcastle United that kept them four points from safety. West Bromwich Albion manager Pepe Mel tasted victory for the first time as an 85th-minute Youssouf Mulumbu goal saw his side complete a 2-1 comeback win at Swansea City that sent them three points clear of the drop zone. Sunderland remain in the bottom three after a 0-0 draw at home to Crystal Palace, but they moved above Cardiff City, who fell to an injury-time Seamus Coleman strike in a cruel 2-1 defeat at Everton. Goals from Morgan Schneiderlin, Rickie Lambert, Jay Rodriguez and Sam Gallagher saw Southampton beat Norwich City 4-2, while Peter Odemwingie scored twice as Stoke City sank West Ham United 3-1 at the Britannia Stadium. l
Man City's David Silva celebrates scoring against Hull City during their EPL match at the KC Stadium in Hull yesterday AFP
DAYS WATCH
Maasranga TV, Gazi TV, Star Sports 1, HD1 ICC World T20 2014 3:30PM Bangladesh v Afghanistan 7:30PM Nepal v Hong Kong Sony Six NBA 2013 14 6:00AM Chicago v Sacramento 11:00PM Toronto v Phoenix 08:30AM UFC 171 Johny Hendricks v Robbie Lawler 1:30AM Major League Soccer 2014 Portland Timbers v Chicago Fire Star Sports 4 11:45AM Formula One Australian Grand Prix English Premier League 7:30PM Man United v Liverpool 10:00PM Tottenham v Arsenal Italian Serie A 1:45AM Genoa v Juventus Star Sports HD1 La Liga 10:00PM Barcelona v Osasuna 12:00AM Sevilla v Real Valladolid 2:00AM Real Sociedad v Valencia Ten Action 10:00PM French Ligue 1 2013/14 Olympic Lyon v AS Monaco
Dortmund
Jojic 77
1 2 1 1 2 4 1 1 0 3
M'gladbach
Raffael 31, Kruse 40
Werder Bremen
Hunt 79
Stuttgart
Niedermeier 55
Hoffenheim
Mainz 05
Polanski 49, Choupo-Moting 67, Saller 73, Roberto Firmino 53 Okazaki 75, 90+2
Braunschweig
Bellarabi 48
Wolfsburg
Luiz Gustavo 36
Hertha Berlin
Hanover 96
Officers Club emerged as the champions of the Ispahani Corporate Badminton yesterday
BFF executive committee members hand over a garland to SAFF president Kazi Salahuddin at the BFF House yesterday COURTESY Lodewijk de Kruif. Meanwhile Monjur Kader, the president of Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi Club Ltd, who was also present on the occasion, said he had brought two Nigerians who will sign for the club in the second transfer window. Wasiu Asas, an attacking midfielder and Daniel, a forward will be taking the place of Femi Orunimi and Okemiri. l
16
DHAKA TRIBUNE
Back Page
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina greets former Malaysian prime minister Mahathir Bin Mohamad when he arrived at Ganabhaban in the capital yesterday
BANGLAR CHOKH
1,972
2008-2009
2009-2010
2010-2011
2011-2012
White-Rumped Vulture
Reasons of extinction Lack of food Shortage of habitations Excessive use of painkillers and cattlefattening drugs
ing reactions to the drugs posed a great threat to the vulture population because their livers had failed to tolerate the hazardous chemicals found in such medicines, he said. Birdlife International, a wildlife platform, working for conservation of nature, declared the species as critically endangered in Bangladesh back in 2001. Another census of the vulture population across the country is being conducted under a project named White-rumped vulture conservation in Bangladesh under International Union for Conservation of Nature. The census will end by June next. Anybody could easily spot dozens of vultures in the north-eastern part of the country only a few years ago, but they were rarely found in the same area these days, said Prof Monirul, a vulture specialist. He called for immediate steps to conserve the vulture population in the wild. Nowadays, vultures are mostly seen
in Sylhet division, greater Mymensingh and some parts of the worlds single largest mangrove forest, the Sundarbans. The environment and forest m inistry took an initiative to impose ban on use of hazardous medicines for cattle in 2011. The researchers say the ban has slowed down the trend of extinction of White-rumped vulture to some extent. Prof Monirul suggested the government should ban the use of another animal drug Kitoprofen which is now largely being used as a substitute for Diclofenac. The vulture specialist also advocated the use of Meloxicam as a substitute for Diclofenac, though it was costlier. Bangladesh National Vulture Recovery Committee headed by an additional secretary to the Ministry of Environment and Forest recently made recommendations to establish two safe zones with the radius of 100km where the number of White-rumped vulture population was comparatively higher. l
Price manipulation of such sort is not a new phenomenon at our bourses and it is sad to witness it over and over again
It is a sheer manipulation and the regulator is not acting on it, said a capital market analyst, asking his name not to be mentioned. Recently, Renwick Jajneswar and Eastern Cables have informed that they have no undisclosed price sensitive information of their company for recent unusual price hike, in response to DSE and CSE queries. l
Financial data recovery centre to Tea prices dip again on poor quality n be set up at Jessore software park
Reuters, Dhaka
n Tribune Report
The government has decided to set up a Disaster Recovery Site (DRS) centre at the Software Technology Park in Jessore to protect data of the banks and financial institutions, official sources said. Investment Corporation of Bangladesh (ICB) will provide the financial assistance to set up the DRS. Sources in the Banking and Financial Institutions Division (BFID) said the state-owned commercial banks will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the ICT ministry in this regard.
The DRS centre would be set up with joint venture as it is too costly for
The DRS centre would be set up with joint venture as it is too costly for one business entity to establish
one business entity to establish. Now, each of the financial institu-
tions has their own data centre. Secretary of ICT ministry Md Nazrul Islam Khan held an inter-ministerial meeting recently on setting up of the DRS with the representatives from Sonali Bank, Janata Bank, Agrani Bank, Rupali Bank, Bangladesh Development Bank and Sadharan Bima Corporation. The meeting decided to set up the data centre as soon as possible as the Prime Minister already gave her consent to the project. Rupali Bank and Sadharan Bima have already expressed their interest to invest in the joint venture project, sources said. l
Tea prices in Bangladesh plunged for a seventh straight week at a weekly auction last week, dragged down by endof-season leaf that tends to be of poor quality, brokers said. Bangladeshi tea fetched an average of Tk144.19 ($1.85) per kg at the auction, down from 146.71 taka in the previous weeks sale, when prices fell 6.5%, said an official from National Brokers Limited. More than 2.68 million kg was offered at the auction centre in Chittagong, with nearly 50% remaining unsold. At the previous auction, nearly 3.2 million kg was offered, of which 61% went unsold. There was huge demand for quality tea, which is in short supply. Larger volume of poor grade tea pulled down
prices and almost half of the tea that was offered in the auction went unsold, the official said. Bangladeshi buyers have imported tea in bulk from neighbouring India, contributing to a glut in the domestic
market and reducing demand at the auction, industry sources said. The large volume of unsold tea prompted authorities to extend the season by two weeks to April 15, allowing for two more auctions. l
WEEKLY REVIEW
During the past week that ended Thursday, the benchmark DSEX fell over 64 points or 1% to 4635, which is 7-week lowest. The blue chips comprising DS30 was down 20 points or 1% to close at 1,670. However, Shariah Index DSES gained almost 3 points or 0.3% to 1,014. Chittagong Stock Exchange Selective Categories Index CSCX lost 172 points or nearly 3% to 9,035. The average daily turnover came down to Tk410 crore, registering a fall of more than 11% decline over the previous week, indicating that investors cautious in trading. Lack of direction of the market made investors behave passively to-
B2
Mutual Funds
DHAKA TRIBUNE
Stock
DSE GAINERS Company
LTP 44.20 9.30 43.70 7.10 7.60 8.30 855.00 0.00 220.10 216.00 186.00 62.80 0.00 66.40 6.00 6.70 6.30 5.70 7.50 8.80 8.30 8.00 6.80 6.80 6.00 16.80 6.70 7.60 6.80 9.20 10.90 7.90 6.40 6.00 19.90 27.80 5.40 6.80 21.50 0.00 8.90
GRAMEEN1 RELIANCE1 AIMS1STMF LRGLOBMF1 TRUSTB1MF SEBL1STMF 1STICB 2NDICB 3RDICB 4THICB 5THICB 6THICB 7THICB 8THICB PRIME1ICBA POPULAR1MF PHPMF1 PF1STMF ABB1STMF NLI1STMF NCCBLMF1 MBL1STMF IFILISLMF1 IFIC1STMF ICBEPMF1S1 GRAMEENS2 1JANATAMF EBLNRBMF EBL1STMF FBFIF ICB2NDNRB AIBL1STIMF DBH1STMF GREENDELMF 1STPRIMFMF ICB1STNRB ICB3RDNRB ICBAMCL2ND ICBISLAMIC EXIM1STMF ICBSONALI1
Daily High 44.90 9.40 43.70 7.20 7.80 8.40 855.10 0.00 220.10 216.00 190.00 62.90 0.00 69.50 6.00 6.70 6.30 5.90 7.60 9.00 8.40 8.20 6.90 6.90 6.00 17.50 6.80 7.60 6.90 9.90 11.00 8.10 6.60 6.10 20.10 27.90 5.50 6.80 21.50 0.00 8.90
Daily Latest closLow ing price 44.10 44.40 9.30 42.90 7.60 8.30 0.00 9.30 43.10 7.60 8.30 273.90
Change % -1.34% 0.00% 0.46% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% -0.62% 0.00% 2.37% 2.86% 1.86% 1.13% 0.00% -4.05% 0.00% 1.52% 1.61% -1.72% -1.32% -1.12% 5.06% -1.23% 0.00% 0.00% 3.45% 0.00% 0.00% 2.70% 0.00% 2.22% -1.80% -1.25% -1.54% 0.00% 0.51% 0.72% 1.89% 1.49% 0.00% 0.00% 1.14%
Closing (% change) 30.88 18.77 18.51 16.86 15.05 15.04 13.95 13.49 13.40 13.36
7.10 7.10
855.00 855.00 218.00 219.80 214.90 215.10 182.00 62.10 0.00 66.40 6.50 6.10 5.70 7.50 7.80 7.90 186.00 62.50 95.00 68.20 6.50 6.20 5.70 7.50 8.10 7.90
Eastern Cables-Z Renwick Jajneswar-A Apex SpinningA Samorita Hospital -A Apex Foods -A Samata LeatheR -Z Desh Garments -B LafargeS Cement-Z Hakkani P& Paper -B Standard Ceramic -A CSE GAINERS Company Eastern Cables-Z Samata LeatheR -Z Apex SpinningA Samorita Hospital -A Apex Foods -A LafargeS Cement-Z Safko Spinning-A Standard Ceramic -A Anlima Yarn -A The Ibn SinaA
Average (% change) 29.21 16.87 16.63 16.75 13.79 12.93 10.64 14.06 13.20 13.95 Average (% change) 30.18 28.16 23.21 17.74 16.65 14.61 13.71 17.86 11.54 10.47
Closing average 162.13 275.07 102.17 107.36 127.90 30.04 106.90 48.93 34.65 52.53
Weekly closing 165.70 288.50 103.10 108.10 130.70 30.60 110.30 48.80 34.70 52.60
Weekly high 165.90 290.00 107.00 110.90 135.00 31.20 112.00 49.70 35.90 53.20
Weekly low 120.00 235.00 88.00 85.00 114.60 26.50 95.10 43.00 30.00 43.00
Turnover in million 44.767 71.785 37.927 68.941 132.161 3.259 53.200 1090.70 8.026 3.658
Latest EPS 1.40 5.32 1.85 2.74 3.56 -0.04 1.18 2.19 0.28 1.06
Latest PE 115.8 51.7 55.2 39.2 35.9 -ve 90.6 22.3 123.8 49.6
Closing (% change) 33.60 28.16 23.24 19.89 15.79 13.72 13.64 12.77 12.55 11.66
Closing average 159.94 31.40 105.00 107.14 131.18 48.96 30.02 53.00 27.55 125.02
Weekly closing 164.20 31.40 105.00 109.10 132.00 48.90 30.00 53.00 27.80 126.40
Weekly high 164.20 32.00 105.00 110.00 135.00 49.60 31.20 53.00 28.10 127.00
Weekly low 125.20 26.50 90.00 92.20 114.50 42.60 26.00 44.50 24.50 114.50
Turnover in million 2.187 0.740 1.131 3.841 8.648 98.833 5.925 0.396 1.616 9.082
Latest EPS 1.40 -0.04 1.85 2.74 3.56 2.19 1.14 1.06 0.80 3.12
Latest PE 114.2 -ve 56.8 39.1 36.8 22.4 26.3 50.0 34.4 40.1
5.90 6.00
8.80 8.80
6.80 6.80 6.80 6.80 5.80 5.90 16.70 7.60 16.70 7.60 6.60 6.70 6.80 6.80 9.20 9.50 10.60 7.90 6.00 19.70 27.60 5.30 21.40 0.00 8.70 10.60 7.90 6.00 19.80 27.80 5.30 21.40 7.80 8.70
6.40 6.40
6.60 6.70
(-) 1.37% (-) 1.21% (-) 1.52% (-) 1.81% (-) 1.93%
Weekly high 62.10 29.00 31.00 275.00 36.50 32.00 29.70 57.60 135.00 31.00
Unchanged Issue (Avg. Price Basis) Market Capital Equity (Billion. Tk.) Market Capital Equity (Billion US$)
Weekly low 53.30 22.40 22.00 190.00 27.70 26.00 25.90 57.60 109.70 26.00 Turnover in million 108.819 244.690 33.670 498.055 46.260 39.144 54.160 0.035 115.895 29.409 Latest EPS 3.33 3.66 2.91 6.23 2.64 4.15 2.07 -10.24 2.06 2.09
Average (% change) -22.78 -16.73 -15.58 -14.61 -13.15 -12.31 -8.54 -10.00 -11.61 -8.18 Average (% change) -22.59 -16.68 -16.43 -16.45 -14.35 -14.69 -10.21 -9.62 -9.52 -9.31
Closing average 58.83 23.55 24.44 219.21 30.37 28.06 26.76 57.60 122.57 27.96
Weekly closing 58.30 23.30 24.30 218.80 30.20 27.70 26.40 57.60 122.90 27.50
Latest PE 17.7 6.4 8.4 35.2 11.5 6.8 12.9 -ve 59.5 13.4
Closing average 58.93 23.72 27.16 24.18 30.26 218.44 42.20 45.10 23.19 30.00
Weekly closing 58.40 23.40 27.20 24.50 30.30 218.10 42.20 45.10 23.10 30.00
Weekly high 61.00 29.00 31.60 29.00 36.00 263.50 46.00 48.40 25.50 30.00
Weekly low 57.10 23.00 27.10 24.10 30.10 200.00 40.90 45.00 23.00 30.00
Turnover in million 7.070 55.953 0.740 1.544 3.701 39.466 0.098 0.367 7.879 0.030
Latest EPS 3.33 3.66 4.15 2.91 2.64 6.23 3.81 3.04 1.10 1.60
Latest PE 17.7 6.5 6.5 8.3 11.5 35.1 11.1 14.8 21.1 18.8
ANALYST
Ripples in investors sentiment and apparent lack of directions prompted much more market level volatility this week
CSE Total
DSE TURNOVER LEADERS Company Square Pharma -A LafargeS Cement-Z Padma Oil Co. -A Meghna Petroleum -A BSC A BD Submarine Cable-A Olympic Ind. -A Grameenphone-A Square Textile -A Singer BD -A CSE TURNOVER LEADERS Company BSC A BD Submarine Cable-A Square Pharma -A LafargeS Cement-Z Padma Oil Co. -A Grameenphone-A BEXIMCO Ltd. -A UCBL - A Square Textile -A Singer BD -A
DSE Million Taka 1743.10 744.43 343.85 2015.27 1156.94 3038.93 39.31 2332.15 2497.72 8.03 127.91 477.04 104.18 1792.36 168.87 278.16 1159.25 1215.97 255.16 1025.26 3.50
% change 8.49 3.63 1.68 9.82 5.64 14.80 0.19 11.36 12.17 0.04 0.62 2.32 0.51 8.73 0.82 1.36 5.65 5.92 1.24 4.99 0.02
Million Taka 170.32 67.87 19.14 149.64 104.27 207.79 0.00 215.17 246.29 28.58 11.96 80.54 15.97 138.87 18.31 14.12 52.44 190.26 47.33 208.95 0.27
% change 8.57 3.41 0.96 7.53 5.24 10.45 0.00 10.82 12.39 1.44 0.60 4.05 0.80 6.99 0.92 0.71 2.64 9.57 2.38 10.51 0.01
Million Taka 1913.42 812.30 362.99 2164.91 1261.21 3246.72 39.31 2547.32 2744.01 36.61 139.87 557.58 120.16 1931.23 187.19 292.28 1211.69 1406.22 302.48 1234.21 3.77
% change 8.50 3.61 1.61 9.62 5.60 14.42 0.17 11.31 12.19 0.16 0.62 2.48 0.53 8.58 0.83 1.30 5.38 6.25 1.34 5.48 0.02
Volume shares 3,864,455 23,155,660 3,058,834 2,583,537 1,042,445 2,840,522 2,679,290 2,707,498 4,824,406 2,169,942
Value in million 1106.45 1090.71 1045.64 739.11 654.48 631.43 591.97 584.54 561.39 498.06
% of total turnover 5.39 5.31 5.09 3.60 3.19 3.08 2.88 2.85 2.73 2.43
Weekly closing 285.00 48.80 348.20 288.00 634.50 220.40 222.30 214.60 115.30 218.80
Price change 1.86 13.49 5.68 1.44 1.68 -3.33 -0.76 -0.05 2.31 -15.06
Weekly opening 279.80 43.00 329.50 283.90 624.00 228.00 224.00 214.70 112.70 257.60
Weekly high 295.00 49.70 355.00 292.80 651.00 235.00 226.00 219.50 120.00 275.00
Weekly low 265.00 43.00 302.00 257.00 592.50 198.90 205.00 200.00 104.00 190.00
Weekly average 285.98 48.93 349.98 289.37 641.07 221.30 221.55 215.35 114.62 219.21
Prepared exclusively for Dhaka Tribune by Business Information Automation Service Line (BIASL), on the basis of information collected from daily stock quotations and audited reports of the listed companies. High level of caution has been taken to collect and present the above information and data. The publisher will not take any responsibility if any body uses this information and data for his/her investment decision. For any query please email to biasl@bol-online.com or call 01552153562 or go to www.biasl.net
Volume shares 212,635 574,366 376,731 2,123,500 241,897 288,000 1,834,425 2,193,257 475,266 175,961
Value in million 133.12 128.04 107.87 98.83 82.98 62.22 60.37 55.95 55.62 39.47
% of total turnover 7.02 6.75 5.69 5.21 4.38 3.28 3.18 2.95 2.93 2.08
Weekly closing 631.00 219.70 285.20 48.90 348.70 214.60 31.80 23.40 116.00 218.10
Price change 0.99 -3.68 1.89 13.72 5.76 0.23 1.27 -17.31 2.75 -14.87
Weekly opening 624.80 228.10 279.90 43.00 329.70 214.10 31.40 28.30 112.90 256.20
Weekly high 650.00 233.00 295.00 49.60 353.80 219.90 34.20 29.00 120.90 263.50
Weekly low 591.00 210.00 255.50 42.60 301.00 212.50 28.30 23.00 112.00 200.00
Weekly average 639.32 220.61 285.68 48.96 349.14 215.03 31.96 23.72 114.82 218.44
DHAKA TRIBUNE
Business
B3
Facebook airs TVBanks to be hit with Microsoft advertisements costs for running outdated ATMs style n
AFP, San Francisco
n Reuters, London
Banks around the world, consumed with meeting more stringent capital regulations, will miss a deadline to upgrade outdated software for automated teller machines (ATMs) and face additional costs to Microsoft to keep them secure. The US software company first warned that it was planning to end support for Windows XP in 2007, but only one-third of the worlds 2.2 million ATMs which use the system will have been upgraded to a new platform, such as Windows 7 by the April deadline, according to NCR, one of the biggest ATM makers. To ensure the machines are protected against viruses and hackers many banks have agreed deals with Microsoft to continue supporting their ATMs until they are upgraded, extra costs and negotiations that were avoidable but are now likely to be a distraction for bank executives. There are certainly large enterprise customers who havent finished their migrations yet and are purchasing custom support, a spokesman for Microsoft said, declining to name those customers or to quantify the extra revenue it is earning. The cost will depend on both the specific needs of the customer and what support they already have in place, so its different for every customer. Britains five biggest banks - Lloyds Banking Group, Royal Bank of Scotland, HSBC, Barclays and Santander UK - either have, or are in the process of negotiating, extended support contracts with Microsoft. The cost of extending support and upgrading to a new platform for each of Britains main banks would be in the region of 50 to 60m pounds ($100m), according to Sridhar Athreya, Londonbased head of financial services advisory at technology firm SunGard Consulting, an estimate corroborated by a source at one of the banks. Athreya said banks have left it late to upgrade systems after being overwhelmed by new regulatory demands in the wake of the 2007-08 financial crisis. They were probably not very serious about the directive that came in from Microsoft. Theres a lot of change going on at these banks at this moment
Facebook on Thursday began weaving video ads into peoples news feeds at the leading online social network in a move to grab revenue from the lucrative television market. Premium Video Ads that Facebook began testing at the end of last year are being gradually integrated into accounts of its more than 1.2 billion members, product marketing manager Susan Buckner said in an online post. Brands now have another way of engaging people on Facebook with compelling video experiences, Buckner said. Well roll out Premium Video Ads slowly and monitor how people interact with them. The 15-second video ads play automatically when they pop-up in news feeds and are designed for advertisers who want to reach large audiences
with sight, sound and motion, according to Facebook. Facebook did not disclose rates, but online reports indicated daily spots aimed at wide numbers of members at prime times could cost as much as $2.5m a day. Premium Video Ads are bought and measured in a way thats similar to how advertisers already buy and measure ads on TV, Buckner said. Facebook has teamed with a company called Ace Metrix to measure such creative components of ads as watchability, meaningfulness and emotional resonance. Facebook said it is working with a small set of advertisers at the start to develop high-quality campaigns. New video ads should begin appearing in Facebook members news feeds on desktop computers and mobile devices over the course of the next few months, according to Buckner. l
Stand in line
The queue of banks waiting to upgrade means there arent enough people to do the work. There is a little bit of a bottle-neck, said Johnson. Some banks are using the upgrade as an opportunity to introduce new features to their ATMs such as being able to read cards that have microchips rather than magnetic stripes.
familiar with the arrangement told Reuters. RBS will begin upgrading its ATMs to run on Windows 7 next year and expects to complete the process within three years, the source said. The investment is part of the 1.4bn pounds each year which new Chief Executive Ross McEwan has committed in order to improve the banks computer systems. McEwan admitted in December that RBS had neglected its technology for decades. Lloyds said it had agreed to pay Microsoft an undisclosed amount to extend support until 2016 while it upgrades its 7,000 ATMs. The bank will start upgrading its ATMs later this year. HSBC, which has 3,200 ATMs, said it was two years into a three-year programme of upgrades which it expects to complete next year. It had also reached a deal with Microsoft. Barclays, which has 4,300 ATMs, said it was still negotiating with Microsoft while Santander UK, which has 2,370 ATMs, said it had already agreed a deal. l
which uses a smaller basket of goods hit a 25 month low of 8.1% in February, but still twice as high as the long-term target of 4% targeted by the central bank, which has hiked rates three times since September to curb price rises.
Asias third-largest economy has been gripped by 'stagflation' economists say, with prices accelerating briskly while economic growth slowed last year to 4.5%, its lowest in a decade
The slip in Februarys inflation the back of a drop in food costs but lashing rains in the past few weeks have hurt crops, which could see prices rise again, economists say. Indias right-wing Hindu nationalists, perceived by business as more likely to get the economy back on track, are tipped to win the general elections, whose results are due in May. l
The dollar fell to 101.73 yen from 101.85 yen late in New York and well below 102.73 yen in Tokyo earlier Thursday
that compounded lingering fears of a downturn in the worlds number two economy and key growth driver. Another batch of disappointing fig-
ures Thursday added to those worries, sending investors into lower-risk assets such as the yen, which is viewed as a safe haven in times of economic uncertainty. Investors are also on edge as the Crimea prepares for a referendum Sunday on becoming part of Russia, a vote the West has called illegal. The top diplomats of the US and Russia are due to meet in London to defuse the crisis but the West has warned Moscow of a serious backlash over the vote as the US and EU prepare sanctions against those blamed for stirring the tensions. The euro came under pressure after European Central Bank chief Mario
Draghi said Thursday that the risk of deflation in the eurozone was limited, but said he was ready to act decisively in case inflation expectations shift down. He also noted that medium and long-term expectations remain anchored to the ECBs objective of just below 2% but acknowledged the longer inflation remains low, the higher the probability of such risks emerging, according to a text of his speech released by the bank. The euro on Thursday touched its highest level since late 2011 after upbeat eurozone industrial output data raised hopes for recovery in the troubled economy. l
The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited in Bangladesh, with support from Chinese Chamber of Commerce, has recently organised a discussion platform on the topic of Bangladesh - China Business Outlook. Li Jun, Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Andrew Tilke, CEO of HSBC Bangladesh, Li Zhen, head of China outbound of HSBC China, Bai Junkun, chairperson, China Chamber of Commerce and Shahidul Islam, research fellow and consultant at the Institute of Governance Studies (IGS), BRAC University in Dhaka, were the speakers of the session
Bank Asia has provided higher studies scholarship to 17 insolvent meritorious students of Lohagara Upazila of Chittagong recently as a part of its corporate social responsibility. Md Mehmood Husain, the banks president and MD handed over the scholarship money to the students at a function held at a local hotel
Al-Arafah Islami Bank Limited has signed International Air Express Services Agreement with DHL Express Bangladesh on March 10 at the banks board room. Md Habibur Rahman, the banks MD and Desmond Quiah, country manager of DHL Express Bangladesh signed the agreement on behalf of their respective sides
NRB Global Bank Limited formally opened its Motijheel branch in Dhaka on March 13. Nizam Chowdhury, the banks chairperson inaugurated the operations of the branch as chief guest
In a grand ceremony at hotel in Dhaka, mobile handset company Symphony has launched Octa Core run smart phone, ZIII on Friday. Chairperson of Edison group Md Aminur Rashid introduced the Octa Core handset after a laser and fashion show
Standard Bank Training Institute organised a course on banking laws and practices during March 9 13. Mr. Md. Nazmus Salehin, MD and CEO distributed the certificates among the participants in concluding ceremony as chief guest
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Pedestrians pass giant sunglasses in Piazza Farnese, d Rome as part of an advertising campaign
AFP
Scrapping fishing vessels piecemeal was not in itself an answer to the problem
EU Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Commissioner Maria Damanaki conceded in an online article this week that enforcing compliance by states has been a struggle. To achieve the right balance between fishing power and natural resources, all global actors need to pull together, she wrote in a Huffington Post article. But she noted that scrapping fishing vessels piecemeal was not in itself an answer to the problem. The solution must be a well-designed mix of structural and conservation tools, rights-based management systems, tighter controls and, especially, incentives for diversification, Damanaki said in the article, jointly written with former World Trade Organisation director-general Pascal Lamy and South African national planning minister Trevor Manuel. l O N
A woman walks in front of the Federal Reserve Building in Washington while the Fed is inside meeting O P
REUTERS
profitable businesses with high Return on Investment (ROI), stock price should go up. If the historical ROI is low, then there is a very high chance that this marginal capital will also lead to suboptimal returns. There is absolutely no reason on earth for stock prices to jump upwards. Even companies with high ROI have seen stock prices slump as they planned to do costly acquisitions with the money raised by the rights. Just like any other investment, for rights shares also the devil lies in the details. Stock market is not a place for speculation; and unless careful analysis is done before making investment decisions, it is very easy to get burned. l The writer is deputy head of equity research at BRAC EPL Stock Brokerage who writes on finance and economics at www. asifkhan.info
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