Speakers at a discussion in Mymensingh emphasized that the political awareness of youth is essential for ensuring citizen services in the country.
They also stressed the importance of transparency and community involvement across all sectors for sustainable development.
The discussion held at the District Shilpakala Academy in Mymensingh recently organized by Democracy International under the “Amio Jitte Chai” campaign, funded by USAID.
Subarna Polly Drong, Executive Director of the NGO Shantimitra in Mymensingh, stated that both the administration and the public, along with political parties, must come forward to ensure safe citizen services.
“We demand the right to justice, the right of citizens to vote, the right to fair trial, and the right to access public services," she said.
Sadaad Mohammad Sayem, a youth leader from Transparency International Mymensingh, called for reducing the influence of brokers at Mymensingh Medical College Hospital and land offices to ensure transparency and accountability in providing citizen services.
Khairul Alam Tuhin, a representative from the NGO Onnochitro, talked about the importance of increasing transparency, accountability, and community involvement, as well as encouraging youth participation in politics for sustainable development.
“I want to see Bangladesh as a secular nation where people of all religions can peacefully celebrate their respective religious events,” said Katha Akhter, a member of the ‘Shabolombi Unnayan Samity”.
She said, “Indigenous people, marginalized communities, and individuals of all genders should be able to live in this country with dignity and respect.”
Under the USAID-funded Strengthening Political Landscape (SPL) project, Democracy International is running various programs across the country to express citizen expectations through the “Amio Jitte Chai” campaign.
This includes discussions, theatre performances, and debates at universities and in local communities. Citizens can also share their demands and opinions through the website amiojittechai.com.
The event included an interactive theatre performance titled “Neta Ashchen (The Leader is Coming),” as well as quiz competitions, video message contests, and screenings of campaign videos.
Participants shared their thoughts on solutions to current issues, and winners received prizes from the guests at the event.
The discussion was moderated by Faria Tasnim Tithi, office secretary of the Mymensingh Multiparty Advocacy Forum. Jamal Uddin Ahmed, general secretary of the forum, gave the opening remarks, and Nargis Akhtar, senior regional manager of Democracy International for Mymensingh division, delivered closing remarks.
