Over-publicised ruling
Over the last few weeks, I have read many over-enthusiastic articles in this paper on the Supreme Court ruling on the Fifth Amendment. Some writers told us what a historic event it was while others went on and on about how all beautiful things are now going to happen in our beloved Bangladesh. Well guys, excuse me while I laugh!
Tweaking around with constitutional amendments is not going to strengthen our democracy or prevent military coups. We have not forgotten the political atmosphere that existed in the country just before the infamous 1/11. Lawlessness gripped the whole country, universities and colleges were closed, prices of essentials were unbearable, corruption was the highest in the country's history and, thanks to the daily gun battles between the BNP and the AL, our people felt too scared to go out. We have not forgotten those days. These were the reasons why the military took over, not because of some ancient amendments in the constitution. Besides, when was the last time you saw a political party in Bangladesh giving a hoot about our constitution?
And the same goes for involving religion in politics as well. You can't form big coalitions with religious parties to win elections and then ban religious parties from politics! It is hypocritical to force reform on madrasas while at the same time providing weapons and money to your lovely “secular” college and university students. You can't have it both ways.
If our politicians want to prevent military takeovers and keep religious fanatics out of politics then they must provide more than just a lip-service to the democratic system that already exists in our country. While bragging about democracy, the ruling party does everything in undemocratic and dictatorial manners. Our MPs shamelessly collect all parliamentary perks and salaries but they never attend any session. This is not how you strengthen democracy, is it? Finally, not running “our” country as your family business will definitely help strengthen democracy (I know I am asking for too much here!).
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