This is not what the people want
It is disheartening to see violent clashes break out no sooner than the election symbols were allotted to candidates, resulting in the death of two Jubo League and Awami League leaders, which we strongly condemn. On the other hand, BNP candidates' rallies and motorcades—including that of BNP secretary Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir—were also attacked in dozens of constituencies, which is also reprehensible. Rival factions of the ruling coalition also engaged in clashes.
Such a hostile atmosphere is not favourable to holding a free and fair election. The voters will be discouraged, if not intimidated, to exercise their fundamental political right of voting. Most dangerous of all, those who possess muscle power will eventually prevail.
Obviously, the political parties bear most of the blame for failing to restrain their local cadres. Instead of trying to court public support, they chose to intimidate their opponents. They must seriously commit to non-violent campaigning for the election to be meaningful.
The Chief Election Commissioner has said the incidents embarrassed him. While we thank him for acknowledging the reality, the CEC should admit the commission's failure to create conditions conducive to polls. Regrettably, the level playing field still remains elusive, and the EC must take appropriate remedial measures.
The police, too, was caught unprepared to tackle such widespread violence. The administration and police should employ their strength to maintain peace and calm and make sure that campaigning isn't tainted by violence and voters can vote in a peaceful manner.
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