Letters to the Editor

Bring educated people in politics

Neil Taylor, On e-mail
The lack of educational qualifications by a large number of candidates in the Gazipur elections seems to indicate that Bangladesh's “best and brightest” are avoiding politics, likely due to the poor reputation and behaviour of those practicing it. The result is many people get involved that do not have the knowledge and critical thinking skills needed to independently make major decisions affecting their fellow citizens. This makes them dependent on the party leaderships who, in exchange for complete obedience to the party, provide them with more lucrative positions than they could otherwise attain. It is not elitist to demand a minimum standard of educational qualification for positions as important as these offices. A related issue is finding a way to attract skilled people back into politics by making it worthwhile and meaningful for them. The parties need to understand that candidates who bring knowledge and the ability to think for themselves are an asset.