Not blaming anybody!

As for the points I raised in my last letter; it is important to keep things in context. In my last letter, I highlighted the failures of the opposition party. In other letters, I talked about the failures of the government. I am sure Mr. Ahmed would agree that a point to point comparison isn't always possible or necessary.

Mr. Ahmed implies that Sheikh Hasina deserves our respect since she is the daughter of a great leader. I have nothing to say against his assertion. But the only snag here is that, when you talk about genuine respect, one has to earn it! After the assassinations of Bangabandhu and Ziaur Rahman, both Sheikh Hasina and Khaleda Zia eventually filled their chairs. Why do you think people simply accepted both of these ladies without questioning their education or abilities? I believe it is because of people's respect for the two great leaders-- Bangabandhu and Ziaur Rahman. So, as far as respect and gratitude is concern, I believe we have given more than what was required. Sadly, we didn't get much in return from them.

As for me taking sides with any of these parties, I think the chances of Bangladesh landing its man on Mars are greater than me supporting the AL or the BNP in their current state. However, they will not only earn my respect, but I will even write a letter in The Daily Star, openly declaring my support to whichever party that implements the following four points first.

1) They should officially declare not to use hartal and street-violence as a tool for making political gains. Hartal is a national cancer that is eating our country.

2) They should abandon the idea of student-politics and dismantle their "student wings". Other than the military, police and other legally recognised bodies that exist for defending the country and providing security to its citizens, there is absolutely no room for armed-organisations like Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal and Bangladesh Chhatra League in a democracy.

3) When choosing the party leader, they should exercise proper selection process so that people can vote for their preferred candidate without being exposed.

4) Create more transparency on party funds and their donors. There should also be a legal limit, duly followed in practice, on how much each party can spend in its election campaigns.

You might say that my support isn't a big deal since I am as important and popular as a carrot! But haven't you already missed the point? See it is not about one individual. If these parties clean up their acts and take measures that are beneficial to the whole country, rather than just to their own parties; everyone in the country will support them.