Editorial
The opposition's sensible programmes
The flexibility should lead to holding of talks
Opposition leader Khaleda Zia has announced country-wide agitation programmes to press for her party's demand for restoration of caretaker government in a massive rally held in Dhaka. We commend her for not calling hartal which we always are opposed to for the stupendous, detrimental effect it has on the economy, let alone sufferings caused to people.
It is disquieting to note that even though the government belatedly let the opposition hold its rally in front of its central office, the main thrust of the government's handling was of regulatory and restrictive nature. We recall here that around 30 opposition leaders are still in jail and many new arrests have been made. The whole city was besieged as bus services were disrupted throughout the day to the immense suffering of commuters. Worse still, bus and launch services between Dhaka and the rest of the country had virtually come to a standstill, incurring huge loss to trade and commerce. In effect, a blow was dealt to the people's freedom of movement.
Understandably, all these measures were intended to keep opposition activists and supporters from attending the rally, like in the case of the March 12 rally only with some modifications. Still, the level of restriction was severe enough.
As far as the issue of an interim government goes, we think there has recently been a convergence of positions between the opposition and the ruling alliance, potentially making way for a constructive dialogue. However, instead of sitting for a dialogue, both sides are persisting with their confrontational posturing to the tremendous sufferings of the people. Such a situation is far from ideal.
We believe joining the parliamentary sessions is not only the opposition's constitutional obligation but also a forceful way to drive home their demands to the government. That way the opposition leaders can put their thoughts across to their constituencies, votebank and the people at large more convincingly than by any other means.
At the same time, the government instead of imposing oppressive measures on the opposition, should give it the space in parliament and outside to ventilate its legitimate demands peacefully and enable it to play its role in a functioning democracy.
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