As 234 municipalities get ready for tomorrow’s polls, it is hoped that the violence and clashes we have seen recently will be kept in check on election day.
The past few days have seen widespread incidents of violence and violations of electoral codes. There have been threats of physical violence against candidates, reports of voter intimidation, and violations of rules of electioneering by candidates. The Election Commission, disappointingly, has not been able to take stern action against these activities.
However, it is imperative that free, fair, and peaceful elections be held across the country tomorrow, in spite of the unfortunate incidences of the past month. We cannot tolerate either candidates or voters being assaulted, harassed, coerced, or intimidated in any way — these occurrences undermine the credibility of any election, and further destablise the political environment.
It is good that even the chief election commissioner has admitted to violent activities in the run-up to the polls. It is reassuring that law enforcement agencies will be extra vigilant on election day — Border Guard Bangladesh troops will remain deployed until December 31.
The role of the Election Commission is crucial in ensuring peaceful and credible municipal polls in the interest of democracy. Violence in polls-time has been an all too common and unfortunate staple of our political environment. Tomorrow’s polls are an opportunity to show that we have made some much-needed improvements in our election culture.
Source: Dhaka Tribune
