The Election Commission (EC) has sent its opinions to the political parties and prime minister’s office. Besides, the opinions have also been sent to the cabinet division, and the ministries of law, defence, public administration, home and finance. Based on recommendations placed by the registered political parties during the talks with the EC, the election watchdog gave a set of written opinions.
Different kinds of proposal including all-party government, an election-time government and an election-time caretaker government and using of electronic voting machine were placed before the EC during the 15 days talks between July 17 and July 31. The political parties also placed 300 written and verbal proposals to the commission.
In its opinion, the commission says all political parties should inform the government about their demands for an election-time government system as it does not have anything to do in this regard. Besides, it cannot compel any political parties to participate in the next national polls. But, the commission expects all political parties will actively join the next election. The EC wants to remain above criticism by holding a free, fair, and credible election as the last two national polls were tainted by controversies.
All political parties
should contest the
upcoming general elections
It is the constitutional and statutory responsibility of the commission to hold free and neutral elections. Similarly, it is the constitutional and statutory duty of the government to assist it. If political parties would not contest the elections, evil forces can mount up. So, political parties will have to stay in the election field to resist evil forces. Bangladesh is constitutionally a multi-party democratic republic and election is the key for continuation of the country’s democracy.
All political parties should discharge their patriotic duty in tackling poll-time violence. Elections are held under ruling party all over the world through which democracy is established. The election-time government will just perform the routine works.
Country’s people imbued with spirit of Liberation War believe the next national election will be held in a free, fair and neutral manner. The EC will have to play a strong role in fulfilling its duties as a constitutional institution. The government has already strengthened the country’s electoral system to hold a fair, free and impartial election. Country’s all people want to see a competitive national election.
Hence, all political parties should contest the upcoming general elections and EC must ensure a level playing field for them during the polls.
