Chilling truths about political degeneracy
MAY be our political parties, especially the ruling party, won't see eye to eye with the diagnosis of the Brac Institute of Governance and Development about multi-party democracy having degenerated in an ascending order over the last three decades. But this finds resonance with what we in the media have known and dilated on through our reports, analyses and comments. Public perception too is no different, as is reflected by opinion polls from time to time.
The Brac report aptly points out that the so-called multi-party democracy has turned into 'partyarchy.' This means political parties have shown the tendency to exerting overwhelming influence on state and non-state institutions in almost alternating sequences. This played havoc on governance and development, producing a disconnect between them. Resultantly, democratic development was stymied whilst economy progressed, the drivers of which have been the people. But it is they who have been receiving a raw deal.
While the parties do not practice democracy within themselves, their financing is reliant on business men who are also dominant in parliament. The central leaders dominate at the grassroots and women are marginalised in political parties. An inclusive and participatory local government system remains a far cry.
Our point is, the fact of being elected to public office should be treated as a chance to serve the public rather than bend the system for personal gains.
In the end, we thank Brac for the comprehensive and thought-provoking report it has presented to the nation. Let it be put to good use.
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