Look beyond the current crisis to make democracy function better and bring stability
A generation after the end of military rule, the country still suffers from broken politics.
Both the government and BNP must look beyond the current crisis to effect a long-term solution that not only ends the ongoing series of blockades and strikes, but which also helps to make democracy function in the interests of the people by bringing stability.
The leading parties are stuck in a cycle of seeing elections as the means to enable a winner-takes-all form of government that concentrates powers in their own hands, without regard to the interests of the nation.
We believe the suggestions made by speakers at this weekend’s workshop on “Rethinking Democratisation,” that constitutional reforms are needed to make democracy function properly, warrant serious attention.
Our economy’s potential is regularly undermined by political conflict. Ways must be found to end the recurring cycle of political deadlock. The country cannot afford to risk perpetuating the cycle of major parties boycotting parliament and holding movements and hartals to change the government.
A constitutional convention that puts everything on the table, from strengthening independent bodies such as the ACC to improve governance, to encouraging decentralisation and reforming the electoral system, can help settle recurring issues and bring the stability which citizens need to build a more prosperous nation.
New ideas such as bringing in referendums or adding a second chamber to parliament, elected by proportional representation, are worthy of consideration,
Only long-term thinking can truly bring a long-term solution.
Source: Dhaka Tribune
