Editorial
Make JS functional
Opposition should join in to make its contribution
By persisting with its boycott of parliament, neither the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), nor the parliament, nor the nation has gained anything in any way.
On the contrary, it has been a loose-loose outcome for all concerned.
Thankfully, however, there is talk of extending the JS session which will allow for the opposition to join in.
There are all but a few days left for the opposition to join the parliament or else they stand to lose their parliamentary seats.
More than fulfilling the technicality of keeping their JS membership intact, it is their inherent constitutional obligation to participate in the parliamentary proceedings as the legitimate elected opposition in parliament.
Vital issues of national importance are before the parliament including that of placing opposition demand for restoration of the caretaker system to hold the next national election.
Therefore, it becomes all the more incumbent for the opposition to set aside any reservation it might have in taking their rightful place in the JS.
They cannot be oblivious of the fact that the parliament is the house of the people, and the opposition is duty-bound to the electorate to represent and speak for it.
On the other hand, the continuing boycott followed by agitation programmes on the street has only served to ratchet up the politics of confrontation.
We call upon the speaker to use every option he has in his hand to keep the JS functional and vibrant with both the Treasury and the opposition members participating in constructive debates.
Importantly, the Treasury Bench needs to ensure that a congenial and welcoming atmosphere prevails in the JS permitting the opposition the necessary space to play their legitimate role at this juncture.
We earnestly hope the opposition will join the parliament to make its substantive contribution rather than meet a mere technical requirement.
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