Khwaja Masum Billah Kausarey
At a time when Bangladesh’s politics is immersed in criminalization, abuse of power, and a crisis of public alienation, a new ray of hope emerges. Symbolizing this hope, Dr. S.M. Ziauddin Haider Swapon, an internationally renowned health and nutrition expert and veteran political organizer, is becoming visible in the national political landscape from the soil of Jhalokathi in southern Bangladesh. His extensive international experience in development and public welfare, legacy of political struggle, and personal ethical integrity indicate the opening of new doors of political possibilities. Representing Bangladesh in the International Arena:Dr. Ziauddin Haider is not merely a politician; he is fundamentally an international development professional, researcher, and personality dedicated to human welfare. Throughout his illustrious career, he has made significant contributions to global health, nutrition, and sustainable development by working with leading international organizations such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and the World Bank. His experience as a Senior Health and Nutrition Specialist at the World Bank has provided him with deep insights into the complex realities of global politics, economics, and development. Simultaneously, his active participation in various development projects across Asia, Africa, and South America has enabled him to understand the true ground realities and needs of ordinary people. Against this backdrop, he has recently established himself as a strong voice for Bangladesh by participating in political discussions, exchange meetings, and policy dialogues in countries like Canada, the United States, and across Europe. His international connections and acceptance can be considered a unique asset for Bangladesh’s politics.
Political Roots and Student Politics Experience: A person whose politics is rooted in the ideological movements of student politics does not enter politics merely for power—he comes for change. Dr. Haider Swapon’s political journey began during his student life. From serving as the Joint Convenor of the founding committee of the Dhaka College Chhatra Dal (Student Wing of BNP) to being the Vice President of Barisal District Chhatra Dal and President of Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Chhatra Dal, he played a significant role in strengthening the organizational foundation. Even from the early days of his student life, he has been deeply inspired by the ideals of Bangladeshi nationalism. This ideological foundation has given him a perspective to observe politics beyond the corruption, unethical practices, and power-centric conflicts. Return to the Political Stage: Demand of the Time or Personal Decision?
At a time when the country is trapped in a cycle of corruption, autocracy, and political instability, the active involvement of an internationally qualified, honest, and principled individual in politics is undoubtedly a demand of the time. Especially, if intelligent leadership like his, with an understanding of global politics and realities, returns to mainstream politics, it is not merely a personal comeback but a creation of possibilities for justice, development, and democratic aspirations of the people. Currently, he is serving as an Advisor to the Chairperson of BNP. Through this role, his involvement at the policymaking level of the party can play a crucial role in shaping the future political trajectory of the country.
Political Reality and Development Crisis of Jhalokathi: The Jhalokathi district of southern Bangladesh has long been neglected. Despite its geographical location, population, and potential natural resources, most development projects here have remained fragmented, unplanned, and repeatedly stalled due to political rivalries. Yet, development requires skilled planning, international connectivity, intelligence, and principled leadership. With Dr. Ziauddin Haider’s political return, there is now a realistic, sustainable, and science-based development possibility for Jhalokathi. His international experience, administrative expertise, and understanding of grassroots realities can add a new dimension to the development of this region. Health and Nutrition: A Key Tool for Local Development:
Thanks to his experience working with organizations like the World Bank, FAO, and IAEA, Dr. Haider’s expertise in the health and nutrition sector can create unprecedented development opportunities in regions like Jhalokathi, which suffer from public health crises. High infant mortality rates, poor maternal health, malnutrition, and the dilapidated state of healthcare have long been causes of suffering for the local population. If Dr. Haider’s international experience and expertise are effectively utilized for sustainable solutions to these problems, a radical change in the health sector is possible.
BRAC’s Contribution and Dr. Haider’s Role: BRAC is one of Bangladesh’s largest development organizations, working in poverty reduction, health, education, and social development. Dr. Ziauddin Haider, a renowned public health expert in the country, was associated with the James P. Grant School of Public Health at BRAC University, a vital part of BRAC. Additionally, as the Director of BRAC’s Research and Evaluation Division, he performed his responsibilities with honesty, efficiency, and professionalism. His research and policy contributions in nutrition, public health, and sustainable development have been acclaimed both nationally and internationally.
The Reality of Political Reform: Challenges and Opportunities: The current severe crisis of criminalization in Bangladesh’s politics is not easy to overcome. Those who use illegal wealth, muscle power, and administrative influence as weapons in power politics make principled politics difficult. However, public expectations and political awareness among the new generation are now much higher than before. The active political role of individuals like Dr. Ziauddin Haider can be effective in resisting criminalization. If visionary, internationally competent leadership like his can bring politics back to the path of ideals, patriotism, and public welfare, political reforms in Bangladesh can become a reality.
Development-Oriented Politics: The Expectations of the New Generation:
The present generation is frustrated with corruption, instability, and abuse of power in the name of politics. They desire development-focused, science-based, and people-centric leadership. This expectation is reflected in Dr. Haider Swapon’s leadership. If visible changes come to Jhalokathi’s infrastructure development, employment generation, quality education, and healthcare under his planning and leadership, it can change the overall political perspective of the country.
The Call of a New Political Horizon:
Bangladesh’s politics stands at a new crossroads today. The opportunity has come to create a new political reality based on ideals, ethics, intelligence, and efficiency, leaving behind old crises. Dr. S.M. Ziauddin Haider’s political return is not merely his personal commitment but a call for a new horizon for the entire country. His leadership can play a role in fulfilling the long-standing expectations of development and corruption-free, people-oriented politics in Jhalokathi and across southern Bangladesh. However, this journey is not easy. Political determination, public engagement, and strategic steps utilizing international experience are required. We expect that Dr. Ziauddin Haider’s intelligence, competence, and international experience will not only advance Jhalokathi but lead Bangladesh toward a new political path—where politics will be the supreme tool for public welfare, criminals will be eradicated, and the seats of leadership will be occupied by intelligence, ideals, and patriotism.
Author: The Executive Director of a Nongovernment Research & Development Organization, Senior journalist, and Human Rights Activist.
