A credible election is still possible
That Khaleda Zia cannot contest in the election due to a Supreme Court ruling is surely a crushing blow to BNP, as it is set to participate in the election without its leader for the first time in its history. Despite the setback, the BNP has stuck to its initial decision—to participate in the election, which suggests that the party has learnt its lessons from boycotting the previous election.
We are, however, concerned that in spite of strong objections from several important coalition partners, BNP refused to cut its ties with Jamaat-e-Islami, a party infamous for its opposition to the Liberation War and collaborating with the Pakistani forces.
What we find disturbing is that BNP allowed Jamaat leaders to use its own symbol—sheaf of paddy—to contest the upcoming election as Jamaat is no longer a registered political party. It looks like this religion-based political group has been assimilated into the BNP.
We are also concerned about the fact that thousands of opposition activists are still in jail, while millions of others allegedly face criminal cases. Despite the prime minister's assurance, the so-called political cases continue to haunt opposition activists. We wonder how they will concentrate on elections if such uncertainty continues to loom over their heads.
As the election is set to be held under a partisan government for the first time since the restoration of democracy in the country in the '90s, the governing party bears much responsibility, certainly more than the opposition, to make sure that the election takes place in a free, fair and peaceful manner. If the ruling party succeeds in holding a credible election, it will bring much-needed faith in our democratic system for citizens. Awami League should not miss this opportunity.
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