EXPRESSING deep concern over the ongoing inhuman and cruel manifestation of the excessive use of force, Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) on Tuesday stated that the unhealthy competition for power is hurting people’s basic rights and prospect of democracy and good governance in the country. The inflexibility of the ruling party and the BNP-led 20-party centering around the demand of holding an inclusive election initiated the ongoing political impasse on January 4, 2015. The law enforcers excessive use of force to contain the non-stop blockade coupled with often strikes imposed by BNP-led alliance is paralysing the citizens’ life and collapsing the economy. There should be an end to it immediately. Both the rivals are fighting “to sustain” or “to establish” democracy, as they say. But democracy means “people’s rule and protecting rights”. Unfortunately, they are being violated by the duos. It is, in fact, a power-game played in a brute way.
According to media reports, Executive Director of TIB, in a statement, said on Tuesday that citizens are being deprived of the whole range of fundamental rights starting from the right to life to the right of getting a natural death. He said by indulging in an unhealthy competition and show of force in the name of democracy, the two largest parties are crushing the basic rights of the people, particularly children, women and the youths.
Independence of and adherence to professionalism in key institutions, rule of law and democratic accountability, particularly in the law enforcement agencies, are considered as the basic ideals of democracy that have been severely compromised; and the rival forces are simply not interested to establish these ideals — they rather believe in assuming power by any means. Political freedoms such as the right to assembly, holding rallies, human chains are fundamental to democracy and democratic practice. However, violent programmes in the name of movement putting people’s ‘life and living’ at risk are absolutely unacceptable. Similarly, the way the law enforcement agencies like police, RAB and BGB have threatened to use force disproportionately and are apparently acquiring licence to become law-breakers are inconsistent with democratic values and the spirit of independence. Tragically, this head-on collision between major political stakeholders is simply displaying the political bankruptcy of our political system and its leadership.
Now, it is important to raise the question as to who actually will arbitrate the political crisis? Surely, the wisdom of the two political leaders can solve the stalemate, save human lives and restore democracy. The keys to overcome the crisis and restore normalcy in public life are mutual understanding between rivals, the admiration of and respect for opponents’ dignity and freedom, confidence in citizens’ sense of judgment and love for the citizens. At the same time senior leaders in both the camps must also shun the confrontational path and practice restraint.
We also urge the political parties to refrain from any violent and undemocratic behaviour and find out a peaceful solution to the crisis. They must show their willingness and capacity to sort out political problems politically.
