Future of democracy
I am writing this letter in response to what eminent jurist Dr. Kamal Hossain and convener of the newly formed Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) Dr Quershi had to say regarding the temporary release of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Although I have tremendous level of respect for both of these house-hold names in Bangladeshi politics, but it disheartens me to see that none of these leaders see the reality of the situation. Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama in his book quite rightly put it, when he said that it is very difficult to integrate idealism with realism. It seems to me that his saying can hold true for the statements and comments made by these two eminent politicians. It is sad to see that they have not been able to see the reality of the situation and rather has stuck by their idealistic nature. Now let us face the reality, the release of Sheikh Hasina and also that of Begum Khaleda Zia is needed to ensure that their respective political parties take part in the upcoming elections and also to lend credibility to the election process. Simultaneously, we would also like to see the return to democracy in Bangladesh. Keeping that in mind, I therefore urge our politicians to consider the reality of the situation. The people of this country want a return to democracy which is only possible through a credible, free and fair election.
Elections will only be credible with the participation of the major stakeholders such as the Awami League and the BNP. It is truly sad and unfortunate that we are being held hostage to the demand of the two political parties which even today enjoy tremendous popular support and can have a strong claim to representing the majority of the population. Is that not what democracy is all about?
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