In pursuit of a peaceful election

With the forthcoming parliamentary election around the corner, polling officials are becoming more and more anxious every day. As reported in the media, polling officials across the country are getting calls or visits from the local police, wanting to know all kinds of personal information including their political leanings.

The leaders and activists of the two major political parties are all set to face each other, but no one can deny the fact that the incumbent party wields a lot of power. However, if the administration takes a neutral stand, no one will be able to disturb the elections. The question, is: will the administration act neutrally, especially when the parliament remains active? The Election Commission should act as a neutral referee. Even, the law enforcement agencies should not be allowed to influence the election in any way. Given the prevailing conditions, polling officials are becoming nervous, with many reportedly trying to abstain from duty. Therefore, we urge all stakeholders—from political parties and candidates to the EC—to create an environment conducive to holding a free and fair election. We call on them to demonstrate political maturity and calm, in order to protect our democracy.

Assistant Professor Nurul Islam, Kaliakair University College