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Mohammed Ohid Uddin Vice President of Bikolopodhara Bangladesh President of UK Bikolopodhara Bangladesh

Alhaj Mohammed Ohid Uddin was born in respected Muslim family in 1965 in the village Deulgram of Kurarbazar Union und Bianibazar Thana, Sylhet district in Bangladesh. Father Master Mohammad Farmuz Ali who began his career as a High School teacher at Deulgram. Subsequently he established a Post Office in the said village and served as a Post Master for sometime in the said Post Office. Later on, he left for Britain in 1957. Mother Taslima Khantun was a learned lady. She was also a school teacher. She was the second daughter of Alhaj Yusuf Khan from the village Matiura under Bianibazar Thana. The family of Alhaj Yusuf Khan is a well-respected and well-known family in the area.

Alhaj Md. Ohid Uddin was a very meritorious student. He used to secure the lst or 2nd position in the annual examination in every class. Only at the age of l1 years old he came to London along with his mother. His grandfather passed away in 1971. Alhaj Ohid Uddin started to live with his mother permanently in Birmingham. He took admission in Smethwick Thomas Telford High School in Birmingham and completed his 0′ Level from there. He also completed a diploma course on business study from Smethwick Warwick College. Still he studies a lot. He regularly reads the informative books from home and abroad. Now it has become a hobby to him to acquire knowledge and to do something to benefit the people.

Alhaj Md. Ohid Uddin came in Liverpool in 1983. Whenever he got any chance he read books. But for family reason he could not complete any course of his study. Again he came back to Devonshire from Liverpool for livelihood. From there he again came back to London and till now he has been residing at Victoria in London. He started to live in London permanently since 1985 and at the same time he got himself involved in social welfare activities. Being involved with Marylebone Bangladesh Society he became the General Secretary of this organization. He also considers himself to be a fortunate enough as he has been able to provide services to his beloved mother Taslima Khatun without whose permission Alhaj Ohid Uddin could not do anything. He brought his younger sister in London and as a responsible brother he had to make all the arrangements for their marriage.

Alhaj Md. Ohid Uddin got married on May 20, 1987 to Sufia Khanom Uddin, 1 st daughter of Mr. Abdul Mannan, a politician-businessman-social worker of the village Hazar Chalk under Zakigonj Thana. He is the father of two daughters and two sons. His wife Sufia Khanom did her matriculation in Bangladesh and in Britain she did a diploma course. According to Alhaj Md. Ohid Uddin, his wife is a very caring and tolerant one who has always been with him in need.

Alhaj Md. Ohid Uddin began restaurant business in UK in 1990. He is industrious and visionary. It’s because of his immense perseverance and tolerance he has become an established businessman. He believes that if a person is not duly evaluated he loses interest in his action. He is very careful about the interests of the employees working in his business organizations.

Mr. Ohid Uddin is respected and assisted by his employees as well. From his vast experience on partnership business Alhaj Ohid Uddin realized that some problems might arise in partnership business. He has no more interest in partnership business. After 1991 he started to visit his home country frequently because of his strong nostalgic feelings. He visited the remote areas of the country and started to think over the political situation of the country.

Alhaj Ohid Uddin declared the floating of a new political party named “United Non-resident Bangladeshi Political Party” in 2002. Many Bangladeshis residing in different countries of the world started to write letters to him welcoming him for such initiative. A report titled” A call for floating a new political party with the initiative of the expatriates” was published in the ‘BangIa Express’ newspaper in London on July 8, 2002. Since his student life Alhaj Ohid Uddin was involved and has been involved with many organizations the list of which is as under:

1) Asian Youth Organization 2) Bengal Youth Cultural Association 3) Westend Football Club 4) Bengali Workers’ Action Group 5) Marylebone Bangladesh Society 6) Trustee, Bangladesh Centre 7) Former Secretary General of Bianibazar Welfare Society 8) Present founder trustee of Bianibazar Welfare Trust 9) Present Secretary General of Deulgram Development Society 10) Secretary General of Diana Memorial Trust 11) Present General Secretary of Princess Diana Memorial Research Centre 12) Founder Secretary of British-Bengal Famine Research Institute 13) Founder of Mohini Transport 14) Chairman of Spicy World Ltd and many more.

Alhaj Md. Ohid Uddin is not only a philanthropist but also an established businessman. He has always been generous and liberal to provide final assistance for construction of roads, mosques and madrashas. He prefer secret donation instead of the open one. People’s sufferings seriously worry him. He is always haunted with the thinking that how he could play significant and effective role in removing the sufferings of the people. In the meantime he has undertaken various programmes to implement many welfare-oriented activities.

Alhaj Ohid Uddin joined Bikolpodhara Bangladesh (BDB), a new political party, on May 24, 2004. Explaining the reason of his joining to BDB Alhaj Ohid Uddin said the lot of the people cannot be ameliorated through frequent changes in government. Though BNP, Awami League along with other political parties launched a united movement against the autocratic government of Ershad and overthrew him from power but these mainstream parties during their regimes from ’91-’95 and ’96-2001 respectively showed their utter failure in running the state. The country plunged into corruption, nepotism, terrorism, killing, murder and many other social menaces during the regimes of both BNP and Awami League. Everyone desired salvation from such an anarchic situation the country ever seen before.

Viewing this deteriorating situation of the country Alhaj Ohid Uddin started to writing and his writings were acclaimed at home and abroad. He felt that expatriates like him could launch a new political trend with a fresh inspiration and enthusiasm under such a catastrophic situation of the country. Under the circumstances, BDB led by former President Prof. Dr. Badrudd Chowdhury came into being which has become more dynamic with participation of Mahi B Chowdhury MP and Major (rtd) Abdul Manan. Alhaj Md. Ohid Uddin contacted the BDB leaders and exchanged views with them and expressed his solidarity with the ideals of BDB. Besides, Alhaj Ohid Uddin considers Dr. Badruddoza Chowdhury as a clean, altruistic I honest personality in politics and, above all, he is impressed with charismatic leadership of B. Chowdhury. Alhaj Ohid Uddin firmly believes that under his leadership Bangladesh will achieve progress. All these reasons led him to join BDB.

Two central leaders of BDB Prof. Dr. Abu Mozaffar Ahmed and Shahidur Rahman came to London and then contacted Alhaj Ohid Uddin. After a threadbare discussion he held parleys with his friends and well-wishers took a decision to join BDB with the commitment to protect the interest of expatriates. The formal journey of BDB UK Branch was declared at a press conference held in East London on May 24, 2004. In that very press conference a 21-member committee was formed making him the convener of the Bikolpodhara Bangladesh UK committee and founder Vice President of Bikolpodhara Bangladesh National Executive Committee. Mr. Ohid Uddin is now looking forward and trying hard to serve Bangladesh from his position.

New Unified political Party for Non-Resident Bangladeshi The current situation in Bangladesh from its very inception shows that a lot more remains to be done. It is seen that the major political parties are engaged in mud slinging and fighting with each other for petty self-interest totally oblivious of greater National cause. It is because of corrupt nature of the politicians involved. It has therefore been aptly branded in a survey conducted by a reputed organization, to be the most corrupt country in the world. Should not we feel ashamed that Bangladesh are heading the list of the corrupt nations in the world. What else is left to be proud of? The huge foreign exchange which flows from about 6 millions of non-residents abroad, have strengthened the economy of Bangladesh over the past 35 years. Even then the non-residents are sidetracked and in some cases totally ignored.

Now it is high time, the non-residents Bangladeshi should unite and should endeavour to bring a drastic change in the country’s political structure. Preservations of it old values and glorious past, through the proper education of its new generation. The existing political parties are not at all concerned over the education, health and welfare issues of the country, because of lack of financial resources and widespread poverty. It is therefore necessary to rise to the occasion and form a Unified Political party from amongst the non-resident Bangladeshis.

Although we have achieved our Independence in 1971, but in reality we have not. Even today we don’t feel ourselves safe and secure in our land due to unprecedented increase in crime and criminals. Due to party politics, corrupt politicians, foreign agents collaborators the country has been ruined. That is why our country is lacking behind even after so many years of independence.

There is no short of natural resources in our country. If it is properly exploited, we don’t have to look towards any nation for assistance. But due to our nasty politics we have been humiliated in every field.

I ask all the politicians whether they are in power or opposition, what they have done for the country except creating chaos and widespread anarchy, leading to poverty and misery. They have done nothing for the country except making it weaker and weaker.

When we land in Bangladesh, we take utmost risk. There is no guarantee that we will return from Bangladesh safely in one piece. Today there is no safety and security of life and poverty in Bangladesh.

We were that revolutionary race who relentlessly fought for Independence since 1 757 till we got independence from British rule in 1 947. We have a glorious past. After independence, we were under Pakistani dictatorial rule, suffered much and finally got separate identity in 1 971 as Bangladesh.

To give the country an honourable place in the world map, we have to struggle much harder with sincerity and patriotism. We must have love for our motherland. For this purpose we have to build our next generation. To give proper education to our children and to teach them our values, culture and tradition along with the routine general education which they receive for their living. This should go side by side.

I shall urge the parents again and again to educate their children. Knowledge is the strength (pen is sharper than sword). Without knowledge we have no place in this modern world. I shall urge all the community leaders and politicians to forget our differences and unite together and cultivate better relations, so that we can do certain tangible project to benefit our next generation.

For that matter we should be constructive and fault finding. We, non-resident Bangladeshi need to have positive thought like Karl Marx, Dr. Sunyet Suen, Ghandi, Nelson Mandela, Ayatollah Khamoni and others who took initiative and drive and through their perseverance the revolutions they imported from out of the country the face of history.

Present Bangladeshi government is trying to kick the non- residents out of Bangladesh through certain draconian laws to the detrimental of the interest of non-resident Bangladeshi. One such abortive attempt was made which, had it not been withdrawn, would have forced us to pay tax after 3 months of stay in our own country.

It is therefore proposed that the revolution should come from outside the country because the work from inside has not worked at all. Hence I urge all concerned to give it a serious thought to the formation of an United Non-resident Bangladeshi Political Party, which only can save the country and its citizens from destruction.

In this connection any suggestions and comments are cordially invited which may please be addressed to the undersigned.

Bangladesh— A Patch to Peaceful Politics Many members of the Bangladeshi community who read this article will have witnessed the birth of this nation. Indeed it is only thirty-five year ago that Bangladesh gained its independence, marking the beginning of a new era for population, which is now estimated to be 140 million. Sadly the past thirty-five years have unfolded as a vivid and tangled tapestry. The basic and undermined by war, coups, invasions, despotic leaders, genocide and famines which have claimed the lives of approximately one million people. These are very harsh trials for so new a nation and if there is to be any hope of patriotism surviving those Bangladeshis who have the requisite strength and belief in their own country must unify to prevent the eradication of all that has created it and held it together.

A large number of young professional people and businessmen have been forced to leave the country to enable them to make any progress. In most cases, however, this situation has caused them to develop a keener interest in the welfare of Bangladesh and to seek every available avenue to make valid personal and financial commitments to their country. If this assistance is to continue some serious changes must be made to enable these emigers to participate more fully in the election of government and establishment of the processes of law. it should be remembered that their help and support is vital to the survival of Bangladesh and their input, which is disproportionate to their number, would justify their right to participate more fully in the election of government and establishment of the processes of law. It should be remembered that their help and support is vital to the survival of Bangladesh and their input, which is disproportionate to their numbers, would justify their right to participate in the selection of those who govern the nation.

A reasonable expectation would be the right for the non-resident Bangladeshis and those with dual nationality to maintain their freedom to vote. They would also require an avenue of communication where by their concerns; ideas, aspirations and praise can be noted and afforded due consideration. Many expatriates are extremely consideration. Many expatriates are extremely concerned that the power of local government has been dissipated undermining social welfare and educational facilities. Subsides to farmers have been cut, increasing the potential for famine and resulting in loss of interest in agriculture. This is a regrettable development in the face of ever-present hunger.

STREAMS, TRIBUTARIES, RIVERS AND OCEANS By Bangla Mirror 22 July 2005

As the “alternate stream” gathers pace Bangia Mirror meets UK Convenor Ohid Uddin to discuss the future.

Ohid Uddin has emerged in recent years as one of the most powerful and articulate voices of the new consciousness in Bangladesh.

In an era of name-calling and sour dogma, his work and that of the Bikolpodhara (alternate stream) party in Bangladesh calls for reconciliation and self-empowerment. In a culture obsessed with therapies and experts, he insists that the healer is within each of us. In a time of widespread fear and confusion, he returns again and again to the power of love and forgiveness.

A native of Deulgram in Beani Bazar, Sylhet, Ohid first entered the public eye in the early 1980s when he began working with groups in areas around his locality to look at ways to help .Asian youth in Britain.

Ohid, who is described as a “multimedia activist” is the Vice President of the National Executive Committee of the rising star known as Bikolpodhara. The erstwhile politician is also the party’s UK convener and hails from a ‘mere’ family of fifteen in Deulgram, Beanibazar. The young Ohid found himself boarding a plane to the UK in 1977. The son of the much respected Master Farmuz Au, the founder of Deulgram High School was Enrolled at Birmingham Thomas Telford High School and before long he began to excel in his studies. After attaining a Diploma in computer science from Liverpool Tech college, the talented youngster pursued further business studies at Warwick college.

Ohid supplemented his studies by working part time in Bangladeshi restaurants. Being an enterprising young man it was obvious he would not remain in one position for long. After managing restaurants for a number of years Ohid uprooted and moved his young family to London to the bright lights of London, namely Southgate. The first thing I took note was not the be fooled by the stern or admonitory tone of Ohid’s remarks. He is a warm and pleasant man who happens to be engaged in a great battle against powerful forces that are using his country as a biotech guinea pig and ravaging its economy. lVs difficult to imagine him being caught up short in a debate, and even harder to imagine him losing one.

During his youth Ohid took a very healthy interest in the decline of life in Bangladesh; from law and order to corruption. He roamed, searching for the personality who would lead Bangladesh out of the wilderness but for years came frustratingly unstuck.

During this period he formed the United non residential party in 2002 to enable expatriates to become more involved in the running of homeland affairs.

“I think the turning point was the resignation of B. choudhury” he seems to remind himself.

‘Why? I thought to myself. B Choudhury was a legend in Bangladesh. I met him in person and realized I could work with this man for a better Bangladesh. It was only a matter of time before I joined Bikolpodhara.”

Law and order is a concern in Bangladesh. Ohid told me that Bikolpodhara had identified crime, corruption and poverty as the main problems of the country. “The country is now witnessing growing incidents and trends of murders, terrorism, women repression, corruption and price spiral of essentials he said. According to a human rights watchdog report more than 3,900 incidents of murders took place in the country in the past one year. It means 11 persons were killed every single day. During a meeting in Beani Bazar last year Ohid’s office was destroyed and supporters of the party were beaten physically by factions of the ruling BNP.

Corruption has assumed a new dimension and is spreading gradually to every spehere of national life. A sense of no confidence has grown among the investors due to corrupt practices by an influential quarter. Corruption has become a tremendous obstacle for the growth of the nation.

“It is regrettable that Bangladesh has been tagged the world’s most corrupt nation for the third time. The rise of terrorism and corruption have made this “Our first and foremost request is that our political country almost uninhabitable. rivals and organisations do not ignore or play down the issues in Bangladesh.

“Today the country suffers from three major problems: terrorism, corruption and poverty. The eradication of these three major problems had assumed the highest priority agenda in the Alternative Stream of politics that we have introduced.

“To attain the goals to solve the problems many new members of parliament and grassroots members laws had to be enacted and old ones need to be amended. Faster measures are required in this different sort of a party to bring the country in line with direction. The opinion and suggestions of civil society would have to be taken by the followers of Alternative Stream of Politics and these opinions and suggestions would have to evaluated politically.”

As a senior political figure Ohid finds himself We should never forget that what is dominant inconstantly analyzing the political scene in Bangladesh is unprecedented and unmatched in Bangladesh.” I think the problem in Bangladesh are the following the ruling parties have over the years captured the aspirations of the people, especially the poor. They captured them, but they couldn’t deliver anything so far, they have delivered nothing” He says “ So many years, so little changes. All the old systems are still prevalent and there are possibly “What does Bikolpodhara offer?” I ask. only 5% thinking for the welfare of the country.”

Ohld is known to be a perfectionist and concentrates “Well for a start we have a specific strategy and on only one issue at a time. But Dr. B Choudhury, his son Mahl and Ohid have had a good response, both from Bangladeshi nationals and expatriates around the world over.

‘We believe in the sovereignty of Bangladesh and practice True democracy. The part will be successful as to put it simply, our leader is an honest and reputable man.

“As B Choudhury says we want to float a new idea of political management based on a plan to promote social and economic progress and ensure peace replacing the existing pattern of politics, which has largely failed to respond to our social demands.

“This will provide scopes to accommodate the service and assistance of all competent and sensible people belonging to different professional groups and civil societies apart from political leaders. Therefore, the ‘Alternative Stream’ can offer a new guideline to the country under a new man agreement process beyond the existing way of practicing politics.

“I would like to categorically say that I have no support of sympathy for any unconstitutional government or means. I firmly believe in multiparty democracy. I strongly believe that the constitution and the parliamentary democracy must be protected.

“One key feature of our party is our unique student wing. Under no circumstances do our members work politically.

“Student politics within Bikolpodhara is restricted strictly to within the confines of campuses. Students must concentrate on their studies. They cannot join the national programme until they complete their studies.

“Students members are recruited with parental consent and have to be referred by teachers as well as parents before becoming members.”

One thing you can say about Ohid is that he is passionate. He has often been accused of being closed off. Closed of or not, he insists that if you want to see an open Ohid, see him in politics, because that is where he really opens up. “I open myself up every time I am involved in politics. I suppose that has been the case since I was a teenager helping British Bangladeshis in my community. Social work is something I love doing, it fits me perfectly.”

It is no surprise then that Ohid became a politician and why he immerses himself in this world. “Who doesn’t want to do that? I mean we all played as kids. You play games, you take on different characters, you imitate; you set the world right huh?

Ohid Uddin is a distinctly unusual political star in the making.

He’s unlike any other politicians; unaffected, and down to earth. He is intelligent and articulate.

“I don’t see myself as a movie star, but I am striving to be a man of the people I hope to serve, and that’s what I’ve always been. No matter what happens outside of the political arena that I have nothing to do with, I will always be that and as long as I focus on that, I’ll let others say what they need to say.”