Dr. B goes public

What he said generally reflects the public view. We, from the press, have also been saying the same thing for the last several months. So what he said is not as important as the fact that he decided to come out into the open with his views. What the public would really like to know is whether or not he is going to confine himself simply to critiquing the government or will he provide an alternative political platform for the people. About this he kept his options open. When our politicians want to do something but are not willing to say so in public, they take the ruse of comments like 'if people want me, I will not fail them'. That is exactly what Dr. Chowdhury did and we read it as a clear indication of his intention of going for a political grouping. His meetings with several political leaders including Dr. Kamal Hossain indicate the spade work he has already done.

Obviously, his proposed iftar party on November 22 will be far more than breaking of the fast. It may usher in a breaking of the deadlock in our politics. The political speculation generated by his original interview with a tabloid a few days back will, in a significant way, now be laid to rest as Dr. Chowdhury himself made public his own political plans. It is not illogical to assume that a section of leaders from both the large political parties will observe Dr. Chowdhury's moves with an element of sympathy. Being totally marginalised in their own parties and not really having anything to be proud about in terms of running the country, these leaders may not be averse to welcoming political options. And Dr. Chowdhury has all the political credentials necessary to provide one.

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Without either supporting or opposing the moves being made by Dr. B, it can be said without much doubt that there is a need for political and democratic alternatives to the present politics of confrontation, acrimony, hatred and vengeance. The two major parties both in government and in opposition have miserably failed to deliver on the essential concerns of the public. In fact, they have made the situation worse while being in power.

It is too early for us to say whether the much talked about "Third Force" is in the offing. A lot will depend on the confidence about the leadership ability that this former BNP organiser is able to master from leaders of other political persuasions. At best he has been a number two. His record as the ultimate decision maker is as blank as any one else's.