Editorial
Laws for our lawmakers
A change in our parliamentary culture is necessary
The parliament is the central institution of democracy, and when it falters in its duties and, indeed the esteem in which it should be held by the people, it is surely a cause for concern. Sadly, this is the story of our growing democracy.
While the Jatiya Sangsad does not fail to initiate and formulate laws and budgets, the essence of a true parliamentary democracy -- discussion and debate -- are gravely lacking. No matter which government may be in power, parliamentary proceedings end up being a one-sided affair among them. So much so that the opposition -- again, regardless of whichever party may be in the opposition -- does not even deem it necessary to be present in parliament. According to a report recently released by Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB), the current rate of boycott of parliament is 80%.
In terms of accountability, a lawmaker who is absent from parliament for 90 consecutive sittings forfeits his/her seat. This, according to TIB, should be 30 days in a five-year term, with a maximum of seven days' continuous absence. The question is not of how many days should be stipulated but entirely discouraging the parliamentary boycott culture through an appropriate legislation. Hence, in principle we endorse TIB's proposed law which also calls for a code of conduct for members of parliament and a law to prevent conflict of interest.
We also strongly believe that a vital path towards accountability comes from transparency -- to the people, the electorates who have voted the parliamentarians into power. Not only should the income and wealth statements of lawmakers be made public, but their presence and participation should also be made obligatory and visible. The people have a right to know whether their chosen representatives are delivering on their promises and transparency and accountability are the only means of ensuring this.
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