The upcoming elections of Dhaka South City Corporation and Dhaka North City Corporation, scheduled to be held on January 30, are important for many reasons. Since voters have lost their confidence in the voting system because of the widespread irregularities in the last general election as well as other local elections, this is the chance for the government and the Election Commission to win back people’s trust in the system.

The elections will only be acceptable to the public if they can vote for the candidate of their choice without being intimidated by any quarters. We don’t expect any violence or destructive activities before, during or after the elections. The Election Commission must ensure that there is a level playing field so that all the candidates can run their election campaigns in a good environment. 

Md Zillur Rahaman, Gandaria, Dhaka