Political parties blamed for neglecting people’s sufferings
Staff Reporter :
The political parties are interested in accumulating wealth and grabbing power instead of serving the people, speakers said at a roundtable organised by Shushashoner Jonno Nagorik (Shujan) on Sunday.
Addressing the event titled “Reconciliation or Violence: Which Path Are We Pursuing?”, eminent jurist Shahdeen Malik criticised the political parties for their inaction regarding people’s suffering due to skyrocketing food prices.
Addressing the event titled “Reconciliation or Violence: Which Path Are We Pursuing?” Shujan Secretary Dr Badiul Alam Majumdar said, “In the 52 years since independence, we have struggled to establish an effective democracy… fair and acceptable elections remain a crucial prerequisite for a democracy.
Unfortunately, we have yet to ensure a sustainable system for such elections.”
He said as elections approached again, both major parties remained entrenched in their stances regarding the electoral system.
“This conflict has turned into a zero-sum game. It’s time to seek a comprehensive solution that benefits everyone.”
Speaking at the event, Former election commissioner Dr Sakhawat Hossain said, “The Election Commission has, by amending Section 91 of the RPO, relinquished its authority to the government. It’s unclear why this decision was made.”
He also suggested addressing the Political Party Act within the National Charter to help regulate what political parties can and cannot do.
Manab Zamin Editor-in-Chief Matiur Rahman Chowdhury also brought up the misplaced focus on political parties.
“All political parties are consumed with the pursuit of power.
Their focus rarely extends beyond this goal. Compromise seems out of reach for both sides, as each simply wants to claim victory
.
“Without the intervention of a third party, meaningful dialogue appears impossible. Bangladesh now contends with a global superpower, and the consequences of this struggle remain uncertain. In this critical juncture, it falls on politicians to rectify the nation’s political landscape.”
Local government expert Tofail Ahmed suggested, “Given the current circumstances, the Election Commission could convey directives to political parties through the Supreme Court.
Parties should engage in discussions and decide on an election method.
Subsequently, the commission can make the necessary arrangements based on their decision.”
Chief Coordinator of Ganosamhati Andolon Junaid Saki observed, “The opposition party’s movement has undergone a significant transformation.
Its central objective now is to formulate a new political consensus.
This endeavour involves proposing specific plans for Bangladesh’s future through qualitative reforms of the state system.
Dhaka-17 Lawmaker Mohammad Ali Arafat said, “Not all problems can be solved in a single day. Attempting to address them all simultaneously would lead to chaos. Moreover, it’s unrealistic to expect one team to tackle everything alone. Collaboration is the key.”
The event was also addressed by others, including Gaibandha-1 Lawmaker Shamim Haider Patwari, BNP International Affairs Secretary Rumeen Farhana, Professor Robayet Ferdous, and Central Coordinator of Shujan Dilip Kumar Sarker.
