February election to lay a strong foundation for democracy: Rizwana
It is not merely an election, but also a form of public referendum, where citizens will be able to express their views on key reform issues, she said
The upcoming election in February will lay a strong foundation for democracy, and this foundation will strengthen democratic institutions and ensure greater accountability of the government to the people, Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan said.
"The long-cherished goal of building a society free from discrimination and exploitation, which remains unfulfilled, can begin its journey toward realisation through this process," she said this morning (16 December) while speaking to journalists after paying tribute at the National Martyrs' Memorial in Savar.
Speaking about the national election, the environment adviser said, "February election is not merely an election, but also a form of public referendum, where citizens will be able to express their views on key reform issues."
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"Based on this public mandate, the democratic journey of the country may begin in a renewed form," she added.
Describing Bangladesh's political culture as "deeply unfortunate," Rizwana Hasan said that sometimes attempts are made to suppress opponents through violence, including attempts on lives, instead of through reasoned debate and dialogue.
"Such acts are condemnable and cowardly. There is no heroism in violence," she said.
"If one has strength, one should face the people, as the path to public engagement in a democratic state is well known," she added.
She further stated that the culture of eliminating political opponents has no place in a new Bangladesh. "The government will be considered successful only if it can ultimately achieve the objectives with which it began its journey, holding a free and fair election, ensuring justice, and carrying out meaningful reforms."
The adviser stated that the government's goal is to ensure a peaceful, fair, and participatory election, allowing people to vote freely and without fear.
However, she also acknowledged that certain forces are actively working to disrupt this process.
"Alongside resisting these forces, it is also necessary to build collective social resistance," she said.
She further added that the government is firmly focused on delivering a peaceful and credible election.
