DHAKA:  A change in the Secretary-General post of the Jatiya Party, the second-largest partner of the grand alliance, is likely in no time, said reliable sources.

The party also informed that JP founder-chairman and ex-president HM Ershad does not want to see Ruhul Amin Howlader anymore in the coveted post of the party.

According to the party sources, in the wake of changing political scenario and his failing health due to old-age complications, Ershad himself wants to bring changes in the party leaderships. The party chief wants to initiate the forthcoming changes by nominating a new face for the top executive post of Secretary General.

Who is going to be the next Secretary General of the party is the big question that came as the latest stir among the party leaders and activists.

A number of party activists, preferring anonymity, said that Ershad himself desires to replace him with his younger brother and Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister G.M. Quader. He simultaneously is keen on bringing GM Quader’s wife, Sherifa Quader, in the party frontline.

However, the party leaders are reluctant to show much interest about the probable changes. Rather the party activists think that the party might be affected if Ershad is replaced by his younger brother.

Moreover, handpicking someone for the post of Secretary General is not so easy. If Ruhul Amin Howlwder is removed, there are many aspirants for the post in the party.

Most party activists think that as Secretary-General Ruhul Amin Howlader did not play any significant role in strengthening the party unity. There are also allegations that he spent more time on his own business and foreign trips than party activities.
 
The issue of change in the important post was almost finalized last May.

Some party sources hinted that presidium member Quazi Feroz Rashid might be the choice for the post after the removal of Howlader.

When asked, Quazi Feroz Rashid told banglanews, “ Chairman Ershad has asked me to take some important responsibilities of the party. But, at the moment, it is not possible on my part and so I have refused the offer.”

Quazi Feroz Rashid further said, “Actually I don’t want to be party Secretary General as this post is vital. Being a businessman I cannot afford sufficient time for this responsible post.”

When contacted, HM Ershad said, “I am not willing to comment on the issue at the moment. You will see if any changes come in the post of the Secretary General.”  

BDST: 2026HRS, SEP 07, 2010