The first phase of the country’s sixth Upazila Parishad Election held on Wednesday revealed some very concerning issues.
Voter turnout was as usual low like the last January national polls with many polling stations practically empty.
This raises serious questions about whether the results truly reflect the people’s will.
Furthermore, reports of violence and irregularities during the election process cast doubt on its fairness.
Elections are supposed to be a peaceful way for citizens to choose their representatives, not battlegrounds for violence and manipulation.
These problems are eroding public trust in Bangladesh’s democratic process. Voting is meant to be our voice, but our voices aren’t heard if elections are flawed.
To strengthen Bangladesh’s democracy, several key areas need improvement. First, the Election Commission, the body responsible for running elections, must do better. Blaming low turnout on bad weather isn’t enough.
The commission needs to take proactive steps to ensure everyone has a safe and easy opportunity to vote.
This could involve increasing voter education and making polling stations more accessible.
Political parties also need to take responsibility for fostering a healthy electoral environment.
The prevalence of “dynastic politics,” where relatives of powerful figures win elections unchallenged, raises questions about fairness.
Political parties should prioritise choosing qualified candidates based on merit, not just family connections.
Law enforcement agencies must also play their part. Incidents of violence and ballot box snatching highlight the need for vigilant monitoring and swift action against anyone who breaks the rules. Elections shouldn’t be a free-for-all event.
Strong enforcement of election laws will deter future transgressions and help ensure peaceful and fair elections.
The most important call to action lies with the citizens of Bangladesh. Democracy isn’t a spectator sport.
It thrives on active participation and vigilance from the people it serves. We, the voters, can’t afford to be complacent again and again.
We must hold our elected representatives and institutions accountable for their actions.
Our collective voice is the bedrock of democracy, and it’s time we reclaim it with unwavering resolve. Let’s not succumb to cynicism.
Instead, let these local elections be a wake-up call to build a stronger democracy where every vote counts and every voice matters.