Editorial
Opposition's roadside rallies
Let these pass off peacefully
Today rallies are being held at six points of the congested city in a daylong mass contact programme as part of the opposition alliance's movement for restoration of caretaker government
system.
Before staging these, the opposition had followed the standard procedures of obtaining permission from the government. Accordingly, the administration showed green light, for which we appreciate the government's good sense.
Is the Opposition so far avoiding more hartals, and the government giving permission for today's rallies, reflective of (a) both sides showing a spirit of accommodation to each other on howsoever modest a scale it has come about; and (b) a certain respect shown to public sensibilities? We would like to hope so.
One cannot fail to see, however, the loaded nature of today's rallies. These are being staged at six different locations of the city with the glaring prospect of huge traffic tailbacks and consequent suffering in terms of public movement all over the city. Also, what is important to note is the possibility of untoward incidents which cannot be altogether ruled out. Although BNP leaders have made it clear that the rallies programme will be peaceful, one cannot be too sure about the behaviour of activists on whom the parties have had little control so far. Besides, Awami League organising secretary has warned against any violent activity. Should that happen, the government or the AL threatened not to remain silent.
Actually, trading in threats and counter threats of a showdown cannot solve political, far less, a constitutional issue.
It is therefore vital for the future of the nation that the ruling and opposition alliances rethink their rigid positions and take the path of discussion in an extended spirit of accommodation to engage each other for resolving the contentious but solvable interim caretaker issue.
Since the winter session of the parliament is approaching, this should be treated as a forum to iron out differences and arrive at a middle ground between the two extremes.
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