A triumph of democratic process
The United Kingdom has shown a pragmatic way to uphold democratic values by peacefully running the historic referendum in Scotland. The majority Scots voted ‘No’ against the independence move thereby preventing a rupture of the 307-year Union. This is a triumph of democratic process. The Scottish referendum is a lesson for countries that are struggling to attain democracy around the globe.
Let the institution of democracy flourish everywhere including Bangladesh.
Professor M Zahidul Haque
SAU, Dhaka
A controversial act
September 17, like January o5; could be considered a spotted date in history because on this day, the parliament unanimously passed the 16th amendment bill, empowering itself to remove Supreme Court judges for misbehaviour and incapacity, rejecting popular demand for soliciting public opinion and bringing some changes in the bill.
We watched with shock and disbelief, how could the bill be passed by members of the parliament who are not elected by the people? The people of this soil liberated the country but they do not count anymore, as if they are nobody.
We protest vehemently this step, which will undermine the independent judiciary and democracy and bring it under political party control. People do not support 16th amendment of the constitution, so the government must abolish it.
Nur Jahan
Chittagong
