Democracy thrives on tolerance
Tolerance to opinion of the opposition is important to promoting democracy in the country, said Awami League and BNP leaders at a discussion yesterday.
They also stressed the need for increasing the role of youths in politics and said youth leadership should be nurtured for the country's overall development.
The discussion titled, “Advancing Youth Leadership and Participation for Peaceful Elections” was organised by Democracy International at a hotel in the capital, participated by leaders and activists of the two major political parties from different districts.
The speakers also urged for a concerted effort for holding a peaceful national election.
Speaking as the chief guest, HT Imam, the prime minister's political adviser, said, “Without tolerance, democracy can never flourish.”
He also said, “A peaceful election depends on overall efforts of all political parties. And, the responsibility of the Election Commission is to ensure a fair and transparent election.”
During election, the responsibilities of the interim government are very limited, he said. “Its major duty is to help the EC arrange the poll properly.”
Nazrul Islam Khan, BNP standing committee member, said being tolerant to the opinion of the opposition is a must for the sustenance of a viable democratic system.
He highlighted the necessity of youth leadership and emphasised the importance of student elections to develop future leaders. He also warned the political parties not to involve in any harmful activities or else the young leaders will learn the same.
He also demanded a transparent and fair election.
AL presidium member Dr Abdur Razzaque advised young leaders to practise tolerance among themselves, saying, “To promote democracy, it is vital to have tolerance.”
Regarding the upcoming national election, he said it is the constitutional binding for the government to assist the EC during the election.
He also called upon the BNP to participate in the next election assuring them that the polls would be fair under the EC.
Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan, another BNP standing committee member, said the young leaders have new ideas and power to reshape politics and policies. He called upon the youths to reshape politics instead of rejecting it.
Katie Croake, chief of party for Democracy International, and Janina Jaruzelski, mission director of USAID Bangladesh, were also present.
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