The launch of a nationwide awareness campaign for the 13th parliamentary election and the referendum on the July National Charter is a timely and commendable initiative. The deployment of 10 Super Caravan vehicles across all 64 districts and 300 upazilas reflects a serious effort to inform citizens about the electoral process, promote voting rights and reinforce democratic values. At a time when public trust needs strengthening, such outreach can help reconnect people with the ballot.
Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus’s remarks at the inauguration rightly underscored the spirit of democratic participation. By describing the Super Caravan as more than just vehicles carrying the joyful message of democracy, he highlighted the importance of participation over apathy. His call to young voters, women and first-time voters to seek information, ask questions and vote thoughtfully is particularly relevant for shaping a new Bangladesh. Equally significant was his reminder that voting is not a favour but a constitutional right, and that ensuring a free, fair and participatory election is a shared responsibility of the government and citizens alike.
The inclusion of a referendum on the July National Charter alongside the parliamentary election further elevates the importance of the upcoming polls. Prepared through months of discussions with political parties, the charter is intended to provide long-term guidance for the country. Encouraging voters to engage with it and express their will through the referendum is a positive step toward deeper democratic practice.
However, while these principles deserve full support, serious concerns remain over issues that could undermine the electoral process. Foremost among them is the deteriorating law and order situation, which requires immediate and focused attention. Recent incidents show that the environment is far from reassuring. On Monday, a leader of the National Citizen Party was shot and injured in Khulna. Meanwhile, after the killing of July Uprising’s iconic figure Sharif Osman Hadi, there has been no major breakthrough in arresting the main perpetrators or masterminds. Such failures erode public confidence and fuel fear ahead of the election.
Concerns have also emerged over the effectiveness of law enforcement actions. Although police have launched new drives under different names, reports continue that many criminals are being released on bail and returning to the streets. Bail is undoubtedly a constitutional right, and the judiciary must remain independent. Yet, if investigations are properly conducted, charge sheets are accurately framed and state prosecutors handle cases professionally, habitual and dangerous criminals can be prevented from exploiting legal loopholes. This is an area where the government must pay greater attention.
Maintaining law and order cannot be left to security agencies alone. Law enforcement bodies must work in a coordinated and intelligence-driven manner. Political parties also carry a major responsibility, as criminals often survive under political patronage. All parties must ensure that no criminal elements receive shelter in any form.
Unless these issues are addressed decisively, uncertainty will persist over the prospect of a free, fair and violence-free election scheduled for February 12, 2026. The nation is waiting not just for an election, but for one conducted in an atmosphere of security, justice and trust. Ensuring law and order is therefore not optional—it is the foundation of a credible democratic process.
